Periods. Despite it being 2020 there is a still a lot of stigma surrounding menstruation and talking about it. Especially the subject of sex on your period. Just recently a Tampax advert was banned in Ireland for causing "widespread offence", for it's "sexual innuendos" and "excessive detail". In the advert, which has aired in the UK and Ireland, a talk show host asks, "How many of you ever feel your tampon?" Her guest raises her hand. "You shouldn't!" the host says. "It might mean your tampon isn't in far enough. You've gotta get them up there girls." Hands then demonstrated how to use the tampon and applicator with the tagline: "Not just the tip, up to the grip", before the presenter said: "So get 'em up there girls, with Tampax."

I think that most women cab relate to this problem. And the last thing you want to feel when you have your period is your tampon, so I personally applaud Tampax for taking such an educational slant to their adverts. Young women are already embarrassed enough about their bodies, so anything that is clear, helpful, educational and a little bit tongue-in-cheek is great in my book. A statement on Tampax's official Twitter read: "We believe in normalising the conversation around periods through awareness, information and education. This advert was designed to address a very common usage question and to educate how to use our product correctly in a straight-talking way."

Of course this made me think of the stigma around talking about periods, and then about period sex. Many women have periods of up to a week, so why have to miss out on something so pleasurable during such a large proportion of your life?

Many women actually feel hornier than normal during their bleeding so sex should definitely be on the menu, why put that delicious arousal to waste? Having sex before or during your period can sometimes bring on the bleeding faster and make your period shorter overall. Many people even claim period sex alleviates their cramps, so if you haven't it is definitely worth a try, solo or in a relationship.

Of course the thing that most people worry about the most is the 'mess'. However, menstrual blood is a great lubricant so take advantage of this that and take things to the shower perhaps if your worries are making you really uncomfortable. Alternatively you can put down a towel on your bed, although some people enjoy getting a bit messy. As long as both partners are comfortable, there is absolutely no reason to avoid having sex while menstruating. However if you're not into the idea of period sex then you can keep your tampon or menstrual cup in and enjoy plenty of delicious touch for both you and your partner mess free. 

If you have cramps then consider which positions might put less pressure on your stomach, or opt for a solo session focussed on your clitoris. Maybe start your session with sensual touch or a soft massage to relax.

One thing that may surprise you is that you can still get pregnant if you have sex while on your period. Some women's periods last for more than a week and may sometimes overlap with ovulation, and given the fact that sperm can live for 3-5 days, you need to make sure you are protected. Of course as always protect yourself from STIs, especially as you may be more likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease at this time of the month. The cervix is more open during your period (which allows blood to pass), so you have a slightly higher risk of infection during unprotected sex.

Have fun. Stay safe. Issy x