Dear sft14,

No, that's a myth. It is not dangerous for a woman to have sex when she has her period.

There are a lot of scary stories about women and their periods. Don't believe them. For a long time, people didn't understand what having a period was all about. They invented stories about it because they didn't know the facts. A lot of those stories are still around, but they aren't true. Remember:

• Menstruation is not a "curse" or a "punishment."



• Losing normal menstrual blood doesn't make you weak.



• Menstruation doesn't mean being "sick" or "unclean."



• Menstruation has nothing to do with "bad blood."



• Women can enjoy sex while they have their periods.



• It is possible to become pregnant before your first period.



• It is also possible to become pregnant from sexual intercourse during your period.



• Menstruation doesn't need to put you in a bad mood.



• You don't need to stay in bed on the first day of your period.



• Cold drinks, showers, or baths do not cause menstrual cramps.

The truth is that having your period is a sign that your body is healthy and working the way it should.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.