There are a couple of things that we all find it far too awkward to talk about. Periods are on that list, and so is masturbation.
So if you have questions about masturbating while on your period, you’re probably keeping them to yourself.
But neither periods nor masturbating are anything to be ashamed of. And if you do have questions – about hygiene, safety, concerns about pain, or even staining – you should be able to ask without feeling embarrassed.
As it’s Menstrual Hygiene Day, we asked sex therapist Mia Sabat, from female wellness app Emjoy, to answer all the questions women are too afraid to ask about masturbation and menstruation:
Can I finger myself internally while using a tampon or menstrual cup?
‘Fingering with a tampon or a menstrual cup is not a great idea,’ says Mia.
‘Although we might believe we’ll be cautious with fingering, we can accidentally push the product further in, potentially causing it to become stuck, resulting in a stressful and scary situation.’
Mia adds that if this does ever happen to you, you will be able to remove the lodged item; but, you might need to seek medical support.
‘You must also be wary of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), which is caused by either staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria,’ she says.
‘Tampons alone do not cause toxic shock syndrome directly. However, a tampon saturated with blood is an easy place for bacteria to grow.
As such, tampons should be changed regularly, and the lowest absorbency for your flow should be used to ensure safety.
‘If additional factors, like fingers or sex toys, are introduced, there is a greater likelihood of bacteria entering the body and toxins being produced, potentially causing severe harm.’
Is external fingering (focusing on the clitoris) safe?
‘Like any other sexual practice, the period is not an impediment to enjoyment,’ says Mia.
‘The only thing that matters is if you want to finger yourself. If you do, then go ahead!’
She says the vulva doesn’t change when we are menstruating, either.
‘In fact, many women say they feel even more pleasure during this time. Your body is totally capable of receiving pleasure and orgasms during any time of the month.
‘Masturbation when menstruating is entirely natural, regardless of the societal taboo.
‘It is safe and pleasurable; but, as with any time that you enjoy intimate touch, before you touch your clit you should have clean hands.’
Can I use a sex toy while on my period?
Mia says it’s fine to use sex toys when you’re menstruating, as long as you prioritise your sex toy hygiene.
‘Female bodies are more susceptible to vaginal and urethral infections during menstruation because menstrual blood causes the vagina’s overall pH to increase during this part of the cycle.
‘These increased pH levels provide conditions in which candida grows more easily, making your vagina more susceptible to infection.
‘Always make sure toys are clean before use, and make sure you are using toys made from safe and non-absorbent materials to protect yourself from harm.’
Mia does add that cleaning sex toys thoroughly can be a trickier if you are cleaning up blood.
‘Try to stick to toys that are made from silicone, metal or glass,’ she suggests. ‘And avoid anything with ridges, or complex shapes.
‘This should make it easier to clean properly and avoid any build up of fluids which could harm you in the future.
‘Any toys you use should be cleaned shortly after use, as you would normally, although it doesn’t hurt to be even more thorough when cleaning during menstruation.
‘If you’d prefer not to clean up menstrual blood, try experimenting with toys that focus on clitoral stimulation.
‘External sex toys can help you avoid menstrual blood, without compromising your pleasure.’
Can masturbating help relieve period pain?
Probably the best news of all – Mia says that orgasms during your period are super beneficial.
‘The contractions that are generated during the climax, as well as the endorphins released, can help reduce menstrual pain and even headaches,’ she says. ‘Almost like a natural pain reliever.
‘In fact, masturbation further helps your body to combat stress and even reduce, if not relieve, pain.
‘In addition, more and more studies and research are concluding that masturbation and sexual stimulation benefit your overall health: alongside stress reduction, masturbating improves the immune system, helps to exercise the pelvic floor, and helps to improve sleep.’
What should I do if I feel guilty or strange about masturbating on my period?
‘Feeling guilty when masturbating is a more familiar feeling than it may seem,’ says Mia.
‘There are many beliefs around masturbation that make it look negative – and because of historical taboos around periods, combining the two can make some people feel uncomfortable.
‘For either cultural, religious, or moral reasons, masturbation whilst on your period may be associated with something dirty, dangerous, or something you should be ashamed of.
‘However, masturbation is not only a common activity, but a healthy one too, and there’s nothing to feel guilty about.
‘It is a safe practice that can help you to connect with your body better, and give you more pleasure, which can help you to enjoy your sexuality even more.
What if I want to masturbate but avoid menstrual blood?
Mia says it’s all about taking control of your pleasure, that it’s important to only explore and engage with what makes you feel comfortable and excited.
‘If you’re not ready to come into contact with your menstrual blood, that’s okay,’ she says.
‘You can masturbate by stimulating your clitoris while wearing the menstrual cup or tampon. That way you don’t have to come into contact with menstrual blood.’
There are plenty of ways to explore your body and experience self-pleasure without touching your genitals.
‘Try exploring your breasts and engaging with nipple play to see if you can achieve a nipple-gasm,’ suggests Mia.
‘Or, simply let your hands and mind wander to help familiarise yourself with all of your erogenous zones – you might just surprise yourself with what you find.
‘Sometimes, self-pleasure can simply mean giving your body the time, attention, and release it deserves – even if this isn’t an orgasm.’
Any extra advice for people who want to masturbate during their period?
‘My advice would be that if you feel any discomfort from menstruating, or are worried about the risk of staining, understand that there is nothing to be ashamed of,’ says Mia.
‘There is nothing wrong with masturbation during your period – and often it can be pleasant and beneficial.
‘The most important thing to take into account is whether you want to masturbate during those days, and whether or not your desire is outweighed by any discomfort you might feel about the practice.’
Mia says the most important thing is to be empowered to have a conversation with yourself.
‘To make sure you are comfortable with your emotions and free from any feelings of guilt, doubt or shame,’ she explains.
‘It’s crucial that you feel safe and confident during sex – even if it’s with yourself.
‘When it comes to our bodies, it’s essential to educate ourselves so that we know how to make decisions that empower us.’
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