Are there any health concerns associated with giving someone oral sex while they're menstruating?

Dear Safe, 

It’s great that you’re tuned into your significant other's sexual desires! For some people who menstruate, sexual desire may follow a pattern of arousal that ebbs and flows (no pun intended) at differing intervals during the menstrual cycle. Having period sex can even reduce period-related pain and increase pleasure. That said, cunnilingus—or oral sex performed on a vulva—and other forms of period sex can increase the risk of infections transmitted via blood, like HIV and hepatitis. For more information about menstrual blood and period sex, read on. 

What’s in menstrual blood?  

The menstrual cycle begins when the lining of the uterus sheds. During the month prior to the period starting, the uterine lining bulks up to support a possible pregnancy. If the person doesn’t become pregnant, that lining sheds. The resulting flow that comes out during menstruation is made up of: 

• Tissues and cells from the uterine lining.
• Blood cells and clots from the breaking of blood vessels in the uterine lining. 
• Immune cells, which protect against pathogens in the case of pregnancy.
• Cervical mucus and other secretions from the vagina.
• Stem cells. 

Can you have oral sex while on your period?  

Yes, you can definitely have oral sex on your period. The risks associated with ingesting menstrual blood are likely minimal (as long as testing has revealed there’s no chance of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or HIV already present), though there hasn’t been any formal research on the matter. That said, there are a few things you might want to consider before diving in. More on this in a bit. 

Does being on your period affect the oral sex experience? 

The experience might be a little different than your run-of-the-mill cunnilingus. For example, it might be a bit messier. If this bothers you, you might consider using a menstrual cup or tampon to reduce the presence of menstrual blood or line the bed with a towel for easier clean up. The experience for the oral sex “giver” might also be different—menstrual blood can affect the scent and taste. It’s normal to detect a metallic taste. This is due to the iron content in blood. 

The risk of contracting STIs is always a consideration during any form of intimacy, but the presence of blood heightens the risk for certain diseases. For example, HIV and hepatitis are spread through contact with blood. The “giver” may be at more risk for infection if they have any open cuts or abrasions in the mouth or have bleeding gum disease. It’s generally not recommended to have oral sex if any of these are present, but dental dams can be a great way to prevent the transmission of STIs if you decide to forge ahead. 

What are the benefits of having sex while on your period?  

Period sex can have a variety of benefits. For example, period fluid increases the lubrication involved, which helps reduce pain during sex and in turn ramps up the pleasure. Speaking of which, endorphins released during sex can help relieve period-related pain and discomfort. Similarly, orgasms can relieve menstrual cramps because of the way they engage the uterine muscles. Orgasms can even shorten the length of the period by helping shed the uterine lining faster. 

What are some general tips when it comes to sex on your period? 

In addition to those already mentioned, here are some general tips about having sex on your period: 

• Use protection: if you have penis-in-vagina (PIV) sex, there’s still a chance that you might get pregnant, even when you’re on your period. Depending on your goals for family planning, you might consider using birth control methods during period sex.
• Take any menstrual hygiene products that are placed in the vaginal canal out: having PIV sex with a tampon or menstrual disk or cup can risk pushing the item deep within the vagina which can be uncomfortable and even possibly lead to an infection. 
• Add lube: if you take out a tampon right before sex, consider that the tampon will have absorbed most of your natural lubrication in addition to the period blood. As a result, your vagina might be a little dry, and penetrative sex could be painful. Leaving time between removing your tampon and having sex, or using extra lube are easy fixes to this problem.
• Get wet: you might try using lube or having sex in the shower. Bonus tip: the water from the shower can help wash away some of the period blood.
• Switch it up: you might consider lying on your back, as this position reduces blood flow from the uterus.  

Above all else, it’s important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about the possibility of having (oral) sex during menstruation. Whether or not you choose to have period sex is up to both of your comfort levels. You may want to consider that even if you have a long-term partner, the risk of transmitting STIs is not zero depending on your sexual histories. And remember, you can always choose to use a barrier even if there’s no perceived threat of STIs.  

Best of luck,