Dear angelicastar09,

There is nothing "gross" about having sex while a woman is menstruating. And sexual arousal and orgasm may help relieve menstrual cramps. About nine out of 100 women masturbate to relieve menstrual cramps. Masturbation and sex play with a partner during menstruation are also associated with decreasing the chance of getting endometriosis, a painful overgrowth of the lining of the uterus.

If a woman is using a tampon, she should remove it before insertive sex. Otherwise the tampon and its string could get pushed up too deep in the vagina for the woman to get it out herself.

Many girls experience mild or moderate pain and discomfort during their periods, including menstrual cramps, bloating, back pain, and changes in mood. These symptoms can usually be treated by using over-the-counter pain medication, exercising, following a healthy diet — and sex.

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.