Sex does not jump start your period unless you are already within the window of getting it. But orgasms can speed up the process of your body starting your period.
So if you’re just under the wire, penetrative sex or not, it’s possible to get your period with a few simple tricks. Try these five methods to help your period show up on time!
1. Increased Blood Flow
There are a few reasons why you might see some bleeding after sex, even if you’re not on your period. Occasional light bleeding after penetrative sex is not a cause for concern. But if you’re bleeding and aren’t sure why, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your OB-GYN and have a pap smear checked out.
During orgasm, the pelvic floor uterus contracts rhythmically, and this may help to prompt the body to start shedding the lining. But that’s only if your body was already in the process of starting a period, because ovulation usually happens several days to a week before you start menstruating.
The bottom line is that orgasms might egg on your period if it’s close to starting, but they can’t force the lining to shed earlier than it would otherwise. The best way to prevent surprises is to follow a regular cycle and use reliable methods of birth control. But don’t be afraid to enjoy your sex life — and make sure you have the right products on hand when you need them!
2. Contraction
While sex and orgasm can cause uterine contractions, they aren’t the same as real labor. Cramps and contractions after sex or orgasm are referred to as Braxton-Hicks contractions, which are similar to real labor but don’t come in any sort of predictable pattern.
During orgasms, the pelvic floor muscles contract rhythmically. The contractions can help to reduce painful cramps and also encourage the shedding of the uterine lining that begins your period. However, it is important to note that climaxing can only trigger the start of your period if your body was already in the process of starting it. Otherwise, it can only speed up the wheels that were already in motion a bit.
4. Endorphins
You’ve probably heard that having sex can cause your period to start earlier than usual. The reason for this is the release of hormones like oxytocin and adrenaline during orgasm that can cause contractions in the uterus, speeding up the process of shedding the lining (1). Semen also softens the cervix and can help with this process (2).
Orgasms can also reduce menstrual cramps by stimulating opioid receptors in your body that can dull pain and relax your uterus. Besides that, they can also increase blood flow to the genitals and provide natural lubrication for comfortable sex.
However, the good news is that sex doesn’t actually make your period come early (but climaxing can encourage it to begin). Your hormonal changes during ovulation are what actually causes your period to begin (3). Nevertheless, sex may have the effect of shortening your period by helping your uterus shed its lining sooner and by causing a little extra bleeding (4). That’s why it’s important to practice open communication with your partner and use reliable birth control.
5. Stress Relief
It’s no secret that stress can throw off your menstrual cycle. It affects the hypothalamus, a part of your brain that regulates your hormones, and can cause your period to skip or arrive late. Fortunately, it’s possible to prevent this by finding healthy ways to manage your stress. This may include exercise, gentle yoga, journaling, or spending time with loved ones. It’s also worth noting that, while having sex can have lots of benefits, orgasming itself won’t cause your period to start. It can hasten the process if your body is already at the right stage, however. (2).
So, can sex jump start period? Yes!
