If you have been dating for a while and you feel you know him pretty well, you might want to bring it up casually. You don’t need to make a big deal about it, because it really isn’t a big deal! Think about how he’s reacted to other potentially awkward moments in the past. Did he freak out, embarrass you, or tell all his friends? If so, you might want to hold off.
If it’s not really affecting your relationship, then it’s entirely up to you whether or not you want to tell him. If you want to keep it private, that’s totally fine. If you want to be up front about it, then go for it.
If you choose to tell him, use clear language but make sure he knows it’s something personal you are choosing to tell him. Say something like “I know I’ve been moody this week. I’ve actually got my period right now and sometimes it makes me a little sensitive. I just wanted to let you know what was going on with me–I’d really appreciate it if you didn’t mention it to anyone else. "
You can nicely offer to give him the low down on what it actually means and that almost every single woman on the planet experiences it–even that pop star he thinks is super hot and that spokeswoman you both admire. If he’s really rude, feel free to put the verbal smack-down on him. Tell him getting your period means you’re a woman, and you’re not sure if you can date such a little boy. Or tell him you didn’t really have your period, it’s just an excuse not to hook up with him.
Say something simple, like “Hey, I just started my period. I’m not feeling so great. " You could also say “Oh, it’s that time of the month,” and he’ll probably get it. Sometimes couples come up with cute or funny code words for when you’re on your period. So when you tell him it’s “shark week,” he’ll know what’s up.
If you get cramps, you can ask him to rub your back or your belly to help relieve some of the pain. Let him know if you become particularly sensitive to touch. He might try to comfort you with a hug or other contact, and it’s only fair to let him know you you really prefer not to be touched while menstruating. If you prefer to hang solo when you’re on your period, you can (kindly) let him know that just letting you be on your own is a huge help.
If you want to have sex but you’re not sure how he feels, try saying: “I’d like to have sex, but I’m on my period. How do you feel about that?” Don’t feel pressured to do anything you don’t want to do. If you don’t want to go all the way, you can still do other things, like make out or even just cuddle.
Even if the chances of pregnancy are lower during your period, the chances of contracting an STD are higher. Because there are more bodily fluids involved (and STDs are found in bodily fluids like seamen, vaginal discharge, and menstrual blood), it makes it easier to transmit an STD.
You may also want to consider taking a shower together, since the flowing water will pretty much eliminate any mess.
