How To Masturbate On Your Period Without Making A Mess

Despite what some close-minded people might have you believe, period masturbation—and period sex, for that matter—is far from "dirty" (unless you're talking about the fun kind). In fact, engaging in a little sensual self-care during your time of the month can be soothing for both your mental and physical state.

So if you're down to get down with yourself, here are five ideas for how to masturbate during your period without leaving behind a full-blown crime scene.

Should You Masturbate On Your Period?

It's totally up to you! Some gals feel ultra horny when Aunt Flo comes to town, and some cannot stand the idea of being touched. If you find yourself in the first camp, there are some scientifically backed reasons to self-pleasure.

A 2021 study found masturbation can actually alleviate cramps as much as over-the-counter medication. Because your body releases a cocktail of feel-good hormones following an orgasm (including dopamine), other "physical processes'' like pain take a back seat. Orgasming can also help improve your mood and deepen your sleep—which is especially beneficial considering the havoc PMS wreaks on your energy levels and emotions.

Beyond just making you feel better, masturbation is also a form of self-care. And self-care is critical during that time of the month.

The only real risk of masturbating on your period (other than ruined sheets) is introducing harmful bacteria or chemicals into your cervix, which is open during menstruation. So just make sure to clean your toys before—and after—to avoid any unwanted nasties entering your body.

Period Masturbation 101

Once you've made the decision to masturbate on your period, there are a few tips and tricks you can employ to make the experience as pleasurable (and mess-free) as possible.

1. Freshen Up First

You don't have to do a deep clean—though a steamy shower sounds like the perfect masturbation prerequisite—but take a few minutes to freshen up before you start. Wash whatever tools you're using, be it your hands or a toy, and use a gentle wipe to clean your vulva of any leftover blood (Quickies™ Towelettes by Lovability are body-safe and pH balanced for your intimate areas and make cleanup a breeze).

2. Lay Down A Towel

If you decide to hit the bedroom, save yourself some post-sex cleanup by laying down a towel to protect your sheets. And when you're done, all you have to do is toss it in the wash. You could also opt for a water-repellant throw (like this one) that feels velvety soft and can be easily cleaned if any blood does manage to break through.

3. Wrap A Condom Around Your Sex Toy

If you intend to use a vibrator or dildo when masturbating on your period, think about wrapping it with a lubricated condom. The cleanup will be super easy and, bonus, the lubrication from the condom will make the glide that much more enjoyable. And yes, that's another great reason why women should buy body-safe condoms :)

4. Focus On Slow, Gentle Movements

Some women claim to be more physically sensitive while they're on their period, and that's certainly something to be aware of when you're masturbating. When exploring pleasure during your period, focus on slow and gentle movements rather than vigorous ones. You may even want to just play around with clitoral stimulation, as penetration can be too intense for some.

5. Take It To (or Start With) The Tub

While you can totally masturbate in your bedroom without totally destroying your bedspread, there is another location that offers a little more privacy and, the best part, hands-free clean-up: the bathtub.

Bathtub masturbation was practically made for period times. You don't have to worry about making a huge mess because everything is easily washed, and the gentle, rhythmic stimulation from your bath faucet (even more so than your shower head) is perfect for any sensitive areas.

If you just want to sit back, relax, and allow yourself a moment (or two) of hands-free bliss, check out Lovability's WaterSlyde. This patented aquatic stimulator was made to solve for problems with the bathtub technique, as it easily attaches to your bathtub faucet to comfortably deliver a hypnotic stream of H2O to all the right places. Deep orgasms without the yoga or potential of drowning, something we could all use when it feels like our uterus is being stabbed by a million tiny little knives.

Honor Your Body At Every Phase

We're so not about shaming here at Lovability, so let's set the record straight: there's nothing wrong with you if you want to masturbate on your period, and there's nothing wrong with you if you don't.

Your libido is as unique as your fingerprints, and it ebbs and flows throughout your monthly cycle. Some women experience a crash in desire around their period, and others find the opposite to be true—which is totally okay! The most important thing you can do for your body is listen to it. So honor whatever it is it's asking for. And if that just so happens to be a little self-lovin', then have at it.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.