Here’s How the Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle May Affect Your Sex – Cora

Menstrual phase.

What’s going on with your hormones?

LH, progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone are at their lowest levels. FSH begins to rise, preparing the body for another cycle.

What’s going on with your libido?

Most menstruators fall into one of two categories: totally turned on or don’t even think about it.  For everyone who finds that their interest in sex goes missing on their period, there’s someone who craves more sexual intimacy than at any other time in their cycle. 

It’s worth noting that how you feel about your period, as well as how you feel physically, can impact your libido. The reduced risk of pregnancy, extra lubrication, and potential for your orgasm to reduce cramping can be total turn-ons for some folx who bleed. On the other hand, the fatigue, pain, nausea, squick factor, and blood might make the idea of period sex unbearable.