A quick refresher: “Red wings” is a term used for a person who has engaged in sex during a woman’s period.
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to sex at that time of the month. Some have been told it’s simply not healthy. Others think it’s unclean. And some say it’s just gross.
In truth, there is no danger associated with sex on your period -- except when it comes to pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. (Yes, it’s still possible to get pregnant when menstruating.)
Sometimes taking that leap is just a matter of looking at things a little differently. Think of it like this. Sex is a natural part of life, and that extends to intercourse when menstruation sets in.
Really, it all comes down to what you’re comfortable with. That said, there are definite benefits of sex during your period.
If you’re looking to take your relationship to the next level, check out these five reasons you should consider sex when it’s that time of the month. The benefits can be pretty darned amazing.
1. It makes you closer.
When it comes to sex at that time of the month, there’s a matter of trust involved. As Glamour puts it, “This person still knows you now in a way that only a pretty small portion of the world does.” There’s no arguing the truth in this observation.
But how do you get the guts to get down and dirty?
Try looking at it from a positive point of view. Sure, it can feel uncomfortable to get close to someone when it feels like there’s a murder scene in your pants. However, this experience will build a type of trust that extends to other parts of your relationship.
That’s because by letting him delve into this situation, you’re allowing yourself to be vulnerable. And vulnerability is a building block in any relationship, right? By having sex during your period, he’s going to see you in a way that he never has before. As a result, you’ll let down your guard in a new way -- and so will he.
Plus, post-sex clean up can be fun. It’s a great reason to shower together. Add a little shampooing head massage and it’ll feel like you’re at a spa -- with your favorite man by your side. What an added benefit!
2. It may help with cramps.
In truth, an orgasm can be a pain reliever. It’s like Tylenol -- the natural way. That’s a pretty cool concept. But just why do orgasms help with pain?
It all comes down to endorphins. "The endorphins that are released during an orgasm closely resemble morphine, and they effectively relieve pain," Cindy M. Meston, Ph.D., coauthor of Why Women Have Sex tells ABC News.
Research backs this up. In fact, one study found that orgasm has the ability to decrease pain by 50 percent. That’s nothing short of amazing.
So next time you have cramps, consider a romp in the hay. Put down a towel to protect the sheets and have a memorable encounter with your lover. Who knows…your cramps just might disappear.
3. You may feel more amorous during that time of the month.
If you find that your sex drive increases when it’s that time of the month, you’re definitely not alone. While some women feel randy during ovulation, others feel the mood strike when the red river flows.
There’s a good reason for this. Experts say that hormones are responsible for the “give it to me” response that can occur at that time. That’s because testosterone levels naturally increase during your period (Yes, women have testosterone, too.). This can make you hornier. Plus changing hormones can make sex feel better. (Yes, that’s right. Hormones can make you feel more sensitive “down there.”)
4. You’ll burn off some of that chocolate you ate.
It’s no secret that we crave sweet treats just before our periods -- especially when it comes to chocolate. (Yum.)
The craving for chocolate is a common thing. In fact, Dr. Army Jo Stavnezer told Psychology Today that just under half of women who have been studied crave chocolate in the days prior to that time of the month. (And the other half still want chocolate -- but not necessarily when it’s that time.)
Here’s the thing: Sex burns massive amounts of calories. This means that a good session in the sack can alleviate the damage of some of those cherished chocolates.
Sex in itself is said to burn 144 or more calories per half hour. Climb on top and you could boost that number to 207 calories. And best of all, orgasm increases this effect. A good orgasm can burn a whopping 60 to 100 calories. Wow!
5. You’ll be less anxious.
It can be tough to find a sense of calm when it’s that time of the month. Cramps and general moodiness put a damper on the ability to relax. However, sex can help stabilize your emotions.
During sex, a hormone known as oxytocin is released. This is often referred to as the “cuddle hormone.” Studies show that oxytocin can have a general calming effect on the emotions.
And that’s not all. Semen transmitted to the vagina may also have the ability to improve a woman’s mood. According to Psychology Today, a study surveyed nearly 300 women at a college in New York regarding moodiness and sex with and without condoms. The study concluded that women whose partners didn't use condoms exhibited a generally better mood than those who did.
Obviously this is no reason to refrain from safe sex. If you’re not in a monogamous relationship in which you’ve both been STD tested, stick with condoms. Protecting your health is the most important thing.