Shedding Shame: Menstrual Stigma and Period Sex in Women, Gender Minorities, and Sexual Minorities
Abstract
Research on menstrual sex often centers on cisgender, heterosexual experiences. Across two studies (N = 1,911), we investigated menstrual stigma and sexual activity (penetrative and oral) among sexual and gender-diverse AFAB individuals. Sexual minority participants, particularly bisexual and pansexual individuals, reported significantly greater comfort and higher frequency of menstrual sex than heterosexual counterparts. While gender minority identity correlated with heightened menstrual shame, it generally did not influence comfort or frequency. Centering diverse embodied experiences challenges traditional stigmas and highlights menstrual sex as a vital, yet overlooked, component of sexual health and well-being.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Menstrual Health and Disorders
LGBTQ Health
Identity
and Policy
Gender and Feminist Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Women s Reproductive Health
- Volume
- 13
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 923–939
- Publication date
- 3 February 2026
- Language
- EN