Patient's question:
Yesterday was the fifth day of my period, and the flow was very light, just a little. I couldn't resist and had sex with my husband, but we used a condom. However, I often hear people say that sexual activity during menstruation is not recommended for both men and women. Now I'm very anxious, afraid it might be harmful to us.Doctor's answer:
Hello: If sexual intercourse occurs during menstruation, the following adverse consequences may arise: First, due to mutual excitement, the insertion of the penis may cause congestion in the female reproductive organs, leading to increased menstrual flow and prolonged periods. Second, during this time, sexual intercourse may allow bacteria from the male reproductive organs to enter the vagina. Menstrual blood is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms, making it easy for bacteria to multiply and spread along the inner lining of the endometrium through numerous small wounds and broken capillaries, potentially infecting the endometrium and even affecting the fallopian tubes and pelvic organs, thereby causing unnecessary trouble for the woman. Third, menstrual secretions entering the male urethra may also cause urethritis. Fourth, sexual intercourse during menstruation, as sperm encounters endometrial wounds and escaped blood cells, or even enters the bloodstream, may trigger the production of antisperm antibodies, leading to immunological infertility or sterility. Fifth, during menstruation, sexual arousal causes uterine contractions, which may squeeze fragments of endometrium into the pelvic cavity, causing endometriosis and potentially leading to infertility. Therefore, for the health of both partners and reproductive health, sexual intercourse during menstruation should be avoided under all circumstances.