Ever since I heard that "masturbating during your period might cause endometriosis," I’ve been completely panicked... Since then, I haven’t dared to touch myself during my period at all. It feels like every orgasm is an invitation for endometrial cells to go on a 'tour' in the pelvic cavity. Will it really cause the disease? 😭

Actually, this claim is widely circulated online, but current medical evidence can only say: **there is some correlation, but it’s far from a certainty that it will cause the disease**.
Here’s a simple overview of the mainstream views:
- One of the core mechanisms of endometriosis (internal endometrial lesions) is “retrograde menstruation” + “immune system not clearing these refluxed endometrial cells”
- Over 90% of women actually experience mild retrograde menstruation, but the vast majority do not develop endometriosis (it also requires genetic, immune, hormonal, and other factors)
- Some studies have found that during menstruation, **engaging in sexual activity that leads to orgasm** (including vaginal intercourse or intense masturbation) is associated with a slightly higher incidence of endometriosis (about twice the relative risk), possibly because uterine contractions during orgasm push the menstrual blood toward the fallopian tubes
- However, there are studies suggesting that sexual activity during menstruation might actually have a protective effect (due to sample bias or reverse causality: patients already in pain and not wanting to do it are more likely to report “never done it”)
- Masturbation that involves external/clitoral stimulation without penetration or intense abdominal contractions carries an even lower risk
So, in summary: **It’s not “doing it will definitely cause it,” but rather “it might slightly increase the probability,” and this probability itself is based on evidence that’s not yet conclusive**.
For most people, moderate masturbation during menstruation (paying attention to hygiene, avoiding insertion toys, and not doing overly vigorous abdominal pressure) can actually help relieve menstrual pain and improve mood more than the theoretical risk.
Of course, if you have extremely severe dysmenorrhea, a family history of endometriosis, or have already been diagnosed or strongly suspect you have it, it’s advisable to take it easy during your period or at least avoid particularly intense orgasms and contractions.
Ladies, don’t be scared into complete abstinence—your body is your own, and listening to what it wants is also important. 🫶
(The above is based on current publicly available medical literature and clinical consensus. If you have strong anxiety, it’s recommended to consult a reliable gynecologist to discuss your personal situation.)