Reported 8 months ago
Different methods were used throughout history by concubines in the royal palace when they couldn't engage in intimacy with the emperor due to menstruation. For example, in the Han Dynasty, concubine Cheng Ji had a handmaid sleep with the emperor in her place. Tang Dynasty concubines could write apologetic letters to the emperor explaining their inability to comply. Later, various warning signals such as red lanterns and bracelets were adopted, symbolizing menstrual periods. The establishment of the 'Respectful Service Department' in the Ming and Qing Dynasties controlled the scheduling of concubines, introducing a new form of competition for favor. This led to bribery and power play among concubines, with those unable to bribe often left at a disadvantage.
Source: YAHOO