Fact check: Is sex during my period unhealthy for my partner? | DW News

Key Concepts

• Menstrual blood composition
• Toxins in menstrual blood
• Bacteria in menstrual blood
• Health risks of period sex
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
• Transmission of STIs during menstruation

Debunking Myths About Period Sex

This video addresses a claim made by an influencer regarding the health risks of having sex during a menstrual period. The influencer asserted that for the male partner, period sex is unhealthy due to the transmission of "toxins" and "bacteria" that the female body is releasing, which the male body "does not require at all."

Scientific Analysis of Menstrual Blood

The video presents scientific findings to counter the influencer's claim:

• Toxins: Menstrual blood does not contain toxins.
• Bacteria: While menstrual blood can contain bacteria, these are typically part of the vagina's natural, healthy microenvironment.
• Composition: Menstrual blood primarily consists of blood, blood products, fibrin, fibrinogen, and degradation products. There is "nothing toxic about it."

Health Risks and STI Transmission

The video clarifies the actual health risks associated with period sex:

• No Scientifically Proven Risk (with caveats): If both partners are free of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV or herpes, there is no scientifically proven risk to having sex during menstruation.
• Slightly Higher STI Transmission Chance: There is a slightly higher chance of transmitting STIs during period sex.
• Importance of Protection: The video emphasizes that protection is always a good idea if there is any risk involved, implying the use of barrier methods like condoms.

Conclusion on the Influencer's Claim

The video concludes that the claim that period sex is unhealthy for men is false, based on the scientific understanding of menstrual blood composition and STI transmission risks. The video invites viewers to share other unusual claims about female health they have encountered.