Does Sex Help With Cramps And Other Period Pain Relief

Menstrual cramps are the result of your uterus contracting during menstruation to help expel the blood lining if there has been no fertilized egg implantation.

Hormone-like substances called prostaglandins trigger these contractions—think of them as the body's natural alarm system telling muscles to contract.

The cramps' intensity is usually proportional to the amount of prostaglandins present. For some women it can feel like a constant ache; for others, it comes in sharp spasms.

Symptoms vary from dull and annoying to debilitating pain coupled with nausea and headaches. While research suggests nearly half of all menstruating women experience these pains, many women have their own unique ways of dealing with the pain [1].

One such way of relieving period cramps is by having period sex—or so the advice goes. But is it true?

Ever wonder why some women reach for their partner instead of a hot water bottle when cramps hit? It turns out, there is solid science backing up the relief sex can bring to menstrual discomfort. Period sex releases endorphins, which are our body’s natural painkillers that help relieve period cramps.

These chemicals called endorphins flick the switch on your body's opioid receptors, which give you a break from the pain. This network of opioid receptors is part of the same pain management system affected by pain medication such as Ibuprofen [2].

A study from The Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that sexual activity can lead to partial or complete alleviation of period pain in some women [3].

This is because when you experience vaginal orgasms, the muscles of your uterus also contract and then relax, which can help shed the uterine lining more quickly—so not only does it potentially ease cramps but might even shorten your period.

Beyond just orgasms, sexual arousal increases blood flow to your pelvic region; this extra circulation helps soothe cramps by relaxing tense muscles. While having sex you can try using a CBD lube for period pain for extra lubrication. CBD has been shown to increase blood flow and provide further period pain relief.

And let's not forget about oxytocin—often dubbed 'the love hormone.' This hormone boosts overall well-being and reduces stress levels—a double whammy against menstrual pains.

Does sex help with cramps, yes, but let's be honest a lot of women avoid sex during their period as it can get messy. So what is the best way to have sex during your menstrual cycle without period blood getting everywhere?

The best answer is shower sex as the menstrual blood can wash down the drain easily and quickly.

There is also no need for prep time as the shower is ready for you to jump in any time you want to get freaky.

If shower sex is not your thing because let's be honest, it's not the most comfortable, then doing it on the bed is fine just remember to prepare.

Having sex on your period in your bed requires more prep than the shower. You'll need to put down a towel or a waterproof pad so as not to ruin the sheets. Have some wipes nearby to deal with any mess and if you experience vaginal dryness (yes it happens) have some water based lube ready.

So we now know that sex does help with period cramps, this isn't just pillow talk. Here are real accounts of women who swear by a good romp to ease those pesky period pains.

Take Sarah, for instance—a 28-year-old teacher from Seattle—who says that orgasms work like a charm against her cramps.

"It seems counterintuitive when all you want to do is curl up with a hot water bottle,"

But she insists the natural painkillers released during sex make it worth ditching the fleece blanket fort.

Then there’s Jamie from Austin who uses sexual activity not only for physical relief but also as an emotional uplift to battle menstrual blues. She finds that intimacy can be both soothing and distracting—like hitting two birds with one stone if you will.

The anecdotes stack up and while they don't replace medical advice or speak for everyone's experience—they shed light on how diverse period pain management can be.

So next time cramps have you feeling down and out, consider that among heating pads and ibuprofen, there might be a solution lying between the sheets (consensually and safely of course).

When menstrual cramps strike, the first line of defense for many is often found right in the medicine cabinet. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can be game-changers, but knowing when to pop a pill matters just as much as which one you choose.

Ibuprofen works wonders with its anti-inflammatory powers kicking in within 30 minutes. To maximize the efficacy of Ibuprofen, timing is key. To get ahead of those nasty cramps, take it at the first twinge; don't wait until you're doubled over in discomfort. And remember, sticking to recommended dosages ensures relief without any unnecessary risks.

If your periods have more sequels than a blockbuster movie franchise, naproxen might be your best bet. It lasts longer than ibuprofen so you won't need refills every few hours—it's like that reliable friend who sticks around through thick and thin.

Sometimes Mother Nature throws us a bone or—in this case—a mineral. Magnesium has the potential to relieve relentless cramps due to its muscle-relaxing properties [4]. Although it isn’t an instant fix, starting a supplement regimen could make next month’s visit from Aunt Flo less dramatic.

When cramps hit hard, it's tempting to try just about anything for relief. But before you become your own doctor, remember that professional guidance is key.

Healthcare professionals, like Gynecologists, have the know-how to spot red flags—things like endometriosis or fibroids aren't on our everyday radar but can be serious game-changers when it comes to menstrual health.

A quick chat with your Gynecologist could help pinpoint if your cramps are garden-variety annoyances or signs of something more concerning.

Beyond diagnosis, Gynecologists wield an arsenal of options from hormonal treatments to non-invasive procedures to help with debilitating period pain—and they're not shy about sharing their knowledge so you get back on track fast.

All said and done; there’s no substitute for solid medical advice—it’s simply the best bet for beating those monthly blues safely and effectively.

Every woman's body is different, especially when it comes to period cramps. So let's cut straight to the chase and talk about tailoring your very own menstrual cramp management plan.

Finding relief from cramp pain is usually a combination of things. It might mean pairing a hot water bottle with some gentle yoga or syncing up your favorite playlist with deep breathing exercises. The key is to mix and match until you hit that sweet spot of relief.

We're talking trial and error here, but don't worry—once you've found what works for you, it'll become your goto for the rest of your life before menopause.

Your body isn't shy about telling you what works if you listen closely enough. Maybe it’s whispering for chocolate (dark chocolate has magnesium which could help), or perhaps it’s nudging you towards light exercise, which has been shown to help [5]. Start noticing these cues and keep them in mind as you craft this personalized plan.

So, does sex help with cramps? Absolutely, many women report finding relief from cramps after having period sex due to the feel-good hormones released that can act as natural painkillers. Orgasms help to increase uterine contractions that help to shed the lining quicker.

But sex isn't the only way to find some relief; hot water bottles, light exercise, and even slight diet changes are ways to ease period cramps.

And let's be real, sometimes you just need to reach for over-the-counter relief when things get too intense. That's okay too.

Talk it out with your family doctor or gynecologist if your cramps get too intense or throw a wrench in your plans regularly. Together, you'll map out a plan that fits just right.

In the end, mix and match until you find what works best for you to tackle menstrual discomfort like a girl boss, and don't be afraid to drag your partner to the bedroom if you need it. We're sure they won't mind helping out.