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.