Facts and Quotes:
During the 9th century, the Church tried to impose strict rules on marital relations. Sexual intercourse was prohibited for 40 days before Christmas, 40 days before and 8 days after Easter, for 8 days after Pentecost, on the eve of important religious festivals, and naturally, on Sundays, Wednesday, and Fridays. Sex was not allowed during pregnancy, for 30 days after the birth of a son and for 40 days after the birth of a daughter, during a woman's menstrual period, and for 5 days before communion. Many husbands thoughtfully consorted with mistresses to avoid placing their wives in a state of sin.
