Let’s talk about a topic that’s caused quite a stir across social media—the so-called “rainbow kiss.” If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone, but chances are if you have, you probably wish you hadn’t looked it up. Before you even think about typing it into a search engine, let’s break it down in the most respectful and educational way possible—without making you want to bleach your memory.
At first glance, the phrase “rainbow kiss” might sound innocent or even playful, like something from a children’s cartoon or an arts and crafts activity. But don’t be fooled by the colorful name—what it actually refers to is anything but childlike. It’s an intimate act involving two partners and, to put it bluntly, it combines oral sex during a woman’s period and ejaculation, followed by a kiss where the fluids are exchanged. Yes, it’s as intense as it sounds, and no, it’s not for everyone.
Many people online have stumbled upon the term out of curiosity or by accident, only to be completely shocked by what they discovered. One scroll through TikTok or Reddit will show you that reactions are all over the place—some people are horrified, others are morbidly fascinated, and a few are even open to discussing it openly. One TikTok user admitted, “I’m literally shaking,” while another said, “I should never have Googled that.” And honestly, their reactions make sense. It’s a lot to process, especially if you weren’t expecting it. One person summed up their feelings with a dramatic but relatable phrase: “Scarred for life.” So, if you’re still curious and haven’t searched for it yet, consider this your official warning—click that search bar at your own risk.
Interestingly, the rainbow kiss has been around longer than most people think, but thanks to the internet, especially platforms like TikTok, it’s found new life—and a whole lot of shocked faces. Some users are comparing it to another controversial practice known as “snowballing,” which, although it also involves the exchange of bodily fluids, is a completely separate act. Snowballing typically refers to a situation where one partner returns semen to the other partner’s mouth during a kiss. As you can tell, both terms deal with very personal experiences that are not for the squeamish and definitely not for everyone.
According to Dr. Wendasha Jenkins Hall, a sex educator based in Atlanta, the rainbow kiss is what some might call a “level-up” from the traditional 69 position. She explains that while the 69 position already pushes boundaries for many couples, the rainbow kiss goes a step further. “Rainbow kisses are not for the faint of heart,” she says. “This is a next-level sexual act.” And while some people may find the idea revolting or extreme, others see it as just another form of consensual expression between partners.
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In fact, not everyone views it as something shameful or taboo. Neil Cannon, PhD, a certified sex therapist and supervisor in Denver, points out that society often attaches unnecessary shame to anything related to menstruation or bodily fluids. “When it comes to sex, all roads lead to shame,” he says. “When it comes to shame associated with menstruation, consider blood as just another bodily fluid, and it is nothing more than what we make of it.” His point is clear: while this may seem wild to many, it’s all a matter of perspective and personal comfort levels. Unfortunately, the stigma around period sex still exists, and topics like these tend to intensify the conversation.
But let’s address the most important concern people have about this trend—is it safe? In short: not really. Engaging in any sexual activity that involves direct contact with bodily fluids always comes with health risks, especially when it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Both semen and menstrual blood can carry viruses such as HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis. The risk is even higher if either partner has open sores, bleeding gums, or any kind of cuts in or around the mouth. So if you’re considering experimenting with something like this, it’s absolutely crucial to make sure both you and your partner are free of STIs and have had recent, reliable testing.
Dr. Heather Irobunda, MD, emphasizes that awareness is key. “If you’re not sure about your partner’s sexual health status, this is one trend you might want to sit out,” she advises. She also recommends regular testing as a best practice, even for monogamous couples. Getting tested every three to six months is a good rule of thumb, depending on your level of sexual activity and whether you have multiple partners.
The reappearance of the rainbow kiss on social media is just another example of how quickly sexual slang and taboo topics can gain attention online. What once was considered off-limits or whispered about in private is now front and center in digital conversations, memes, and videos. It also reflects how society’s approach to sex and kink is evolving—what used to be hidden is now openly debated, explained, and explored.
In the end, the rainbow kiss is one of those terms that leaves a lasting impression—whether out of curiosity, disgust, fascination, or all three. It may not be something you ever imagined learning about today, but here we are. If you’re thinking of trying it, just make sure you fully understand what it involves and have an honest, informed conversation with your partner beforehand. And maybe—just maybe—resist the urge to Google it unless you’re prepared for some jaw-dropping results.
