Summary: When in a friends with benefits (FWB) relationship, it is important to have open and honest communication about personal issues that may affect your sexual encounters. One such issue is menstruation. Telling your FWB that you are on your period can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips on how to tell your FWB you’re on your period.
1. Choose a Comfortable Setting
When bringing up the topic of menstruation with your FWB, it is important to choose a comfortable setting where you can both speak openly and honestly. If possible, choose a private location where you won’t be interrupted. Consider having the conversation in person rather than over text or phone to avoid misunderstandings.
When initiating the conversation, it can be helpful to use “I” statements to express how you are feeling. For example, you could say something like, “I want to let you know that I’m on my period and may not be comfortable engaging in certain activities.”
It is important to remember that your FWB is also human and likely has experience with menstruation either personally or through past partners. They may also appreciate your candidness and desire to communicate clearly about any potential limitations.
2. Discuss Boundaries
In addition to letting your FWB know that you are on your period, it is important to discuss any boundaries or limitations you may have during this time. This can include a broad range of things, such as avoiding certain sexual positions or abstaining from sex altogether.
It can be helpful to approach this conversation by asking your FWB if they have any preferences or boundaries during menstruation. This can open the door for an honest and respectful discussion where both parties feel heard and respected.
It is important to remember that boundaries can change from cycle to cycle, so it can be helpful to check in with your FWB periodically to see if there are any changes or updates to the conversation.
3. Be Prepared
If you do decide to engage in sexual activity during your period, it is important to be prepared with the necessary supplies such as menstrual products and towels. It may also be helpful to communicate your preferences for cleanup and disposal of these items beforehand.
Additionally, it can be helpful to have a plan in place for managing any potential discomfort or pain that may arise during this time. This could include taking an over-the-counter pain reliever or using a heating pad.
Being prepared can help both you and your FWB feel more comfortable and confident in navigating sexual activity during menstruation.
4. Normalize Menstruation
While menstruation can be a sensitive topic, it is important to remember that it is a natural bodily function that affects half of the world’s population. Normalizing menstruation can help reduce shame and embarrassment around the topic and make it easier to communicate about with your FWB.
You could approach this by sharing educational resources or simply having open and honest conversations about your own experiences with menstruation. Model healthy attitudes towards menstruation and encourage your FWB to do the same.
Normalizing menstruation can also help create a more positive and respectful sexual encounter for both parties.
5. Respect Each Other’s Boundaries
Lastly, it is crucial to respect each other’s boundaries and preferences surrounding menstruation. If one partner does not feel comfortable engaging in sexual activity during this time, it is important to honor that decision.
Respecting boundaries can also mean checking in with your FWB to make sure they are still comfortable with the previously established boundaries. Everyone’s experiences with menstruation are different, and it is important to communicate openly and honestly to ensure everyone feels heard and respected.
Remember that having a FWB relationship requires clear communication and mutual understanding. By communicating openly and respectfully about menstruation, you can help create a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your FWB.
Conclusion:
Telling your FWB that you are on your period can be an anxiety-inducing experience, but it does not have to be. By following these tips, including choosing a comfortable setting, discussing boundaries, being prepared, normalizing menstruation, and respecting each other’s boundaries, you can navigate this sensitive topic with confidence and ease. Remember that clear and respectful communication is key to a healthy FWB relationship.