Sexual Intercourse During Menstruation
In the past,
many societies had strong prohibitions against sexual
intercourse during menstruation. Generally, women were
considered "unclean" during this time, and in some cultures
there was a belief that sexual intercourse with a menstruating
woman could make a man ill. However, modern medical research
has exposed these and similar views as mere prejudices and
superstitions. From a purely medical standpoint, there is no
reason why sexual intercourse should not take place at any
time during the menstrual cycle. In fact, many women are
particularly responsive just before or during their periods.
Still, some couples may hesitate to engage in coitus because
of aesthetic objections to the bleeding. In this case, the use
of a diaphragm should be considered. It will not only hold
back the blood, but will also act as a means of contraception.
After all, sperm cells can stay alive inside a woman's body
for several days, and menstrual cycles can be quite irregular.
An early ovulation can never be ruled out with complete
certainty.
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