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To be clear, I’m not talking about sex while dressed in a costume from a historical era (though that can be fun too!), I’m talking about doing it while menstruating.

If you have a uterus that sheds its lining on the regular, period sex is something you may have experienced or at least considered at some point. While it rarely comes up in steamy novels, porn, or romantic comedies, the flow is a fact of life for most vaginas. That doesn’t mean that sex is off limits for the duration. Far from it. Here are a few tips and tricks to help make period sex a breeze.

While you certainly can get busy during your monthly, there are some reasons to avoid it or at least proceed with caution. Contrary to what you might have heard, you CAN get pregnant while on your period. If you don’t want that, consider using contraception. Also, the risk of contracting and transmitting infection, particularly blood-borne illnesses, such as Hepatitis B or HIV, are higher during menstruation. The use of barriers, such as dental dams, condoms, gloves, and finger cots, can all help to reduce your risk of infection. If you’re using toys with a partner, consider covering them with a condom or other latex barrier and replacing with a fresh one before switching from one body to another. Better still, everyone can have their own toys for their own parts. And, finally, you might not like having period sex and that’s totally legit. During menstruation your body is already working overtime. No need to pressure yourself into doing something if it doesn’t feel good for you.

Now that we’ve covered the NAYs, let’s talk about the YAYS! Period sex can be amazeballs, for the following reasons:

Orgasms can soothe your menstrual symptoms. The Big O produces a rush of endorphins, which may help ease the pain of menstrual cramps. Bonus: they offer a mood boost when hormones have us feeling down! Also, orgasmic contractions in the uterus can act as a soothing internal massage. So next time you’re laid up with menstrual pain, instead of popping an Advil, try having an orgasm.

Hormones can make you horny. Some people crave sex more during their periods. The change in hormone levels affect different people differently. While some want nothing more than to curl up on the couch with a hot water bottle and Netflix, other people notice a definite spike in their libido once the red tide comes in.

Glass half-full: During menstruation, the increased blood flow to the pelvic area can lead to a fuller sensation, which for some people enhances feelings of arousal and sexual pleasure.

Perhaps the most common concern regarding period sex is what to do about all that blood. There’s no evidence to support the long-held belief that menstruation vaginas are “unclean” in any way. Sex during your period isn’t dirty, but the reality is it can be messy. Some folks happily accept the mess and, in my opinion, there are worse things in life than bloodstained sheets. But if you’re looking for ways to keep things tidy, here are some tips to help you have hot period sex, without making a hot mess:

Lay a few towels on the bed, the couch, the floor, or any other place you want to do your thing.
Not only is sex in the shower steamy (literally!), it makes it super-easy to wash away any blood that shows up.
Natural sea sponge tampons, like Jade and Pearl’s, are very absorbent with virtually no leaking. These are a great option if you’re self-conscious about blood interfering with oral sex and hand-play. They’re also squishy enough to accommodate your favourite toy or body part during vaginal penetration.
Softcup is a menstrual device similar to the Keeper and Diva cup; however, this one is made of very pliable plastic, so it can be kept in during vaginal intercourse. It comes in both reusable and single-use formats. Check out their US/Canadian store locator here.

Do you have any great tips or tricks for period sex? For more helpful hints, check out my quick guide to multiple orgasm and learn how you can talk to your child about consent.