Menstrual cup is a reusable, bell-shaped cup made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, or latex, designed to be inserted into the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid. It comes in various sizes, and they can be used for a few years with proper care.
How to use a menstrual cup:
- Buy the right size.
Cups come in different sizes, you have to choose one based on factors like age, childbirth history, and flow level.
- Clean your hands.
Before handling the cup, wash your hands thoroughly.
- Fold the cup.
There are different ways to fold a menstrual cup to make insertion easier, it is usually shown in the instruction that comes with a cup.
- Insert the cup.
Relax your muscles and gently insert the folded cup, directing it slightly toward your tailbone. Once inside, the cup should open up and create a seal.
- Wear it for 6–12 hours.
Depending on your flow, you can wear the cup for several hours before it needs to be emptied.
- Remove the cup.
Pinch the base of the cup to break the seal, gently pull it out, and empty the contents into the toilet.
- Clean and reuse.
You have to wash the cup with mild soap and water after each use, and sterilize it in boiling water between cycles.
Why is a menstrual cup good?
The menstrual cup offers a lot of benefits and being eco-friendly, it can be reused for years, dramatically reducing the waste generated by disposable tampons and pads. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term savings are significant, as a single cup can last up to 10 years.
Another advantage is that it holds more fluid than traditional menstrual products, meaning fewer changes are required throughout the day. Many users also report finding the cup incredibly comfortable once it’s inserted properly, to the point where they forget they’re even wearing it. Additionally, menstrual cups present a lower risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) compared to tampons and help maintain the natural vaginal pH, minimizing irritation.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that using a menstrual cup can be a bit challenging, especially in public places because washing the cup after each use is mandatory. That said, for those willing to adapt, the benefits of fewer changes, a lower risk of TSS, and the ability to stay active while using the cup make it worth trying. Once users overcome the learning curve, they often find the menstrual cup to be a healthier, cost-effective, and eco-conscious option that fits seamlessly into their lifestyle.