Menstrual cups are reusable and environmentally-friendly solutions, helping reduce waste while saving you money long term – one cup could potentially last years before needing replacing.
To use a menstrual cup, tighten it while holding its rim up and insert it directly into your vagina like you would with an ordinary tampon without an applicator. Many women find it easier to do this while either squatting on or sitting on the toilet.
They’re reusable
Menstrual cups can be worn up to 12 hours at once, eliminating the need for frequent changing and disposal of pads and tampons, while helping reduce landfill waste by cutting back on waste disposal each month. Most menstrual cups are constructed of medical-grade silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), natural gum rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TE), but women allergic to latex may opt for cups made of alternative materials like polypropylene or acrylonitrile butane (ABS), which do not contain latex.
Menstrual cups may seem to have suddenly emerged out of nowhere, but they’ve actually been around in one form or another since 1867 when the first patent for one was awarded – with its first design resembling a rubber sack attached to a ring. Gynecologist Erin Higgins MD emphasizes the importance of choosing an appropriately fitting menstrual cup, especially those suffering from dropped uteri or prolapsed uterus issues.
They’re comfortable
Most menstrual cups are constructed from medical-grade silicone. This material is similar to what’s used for baby toys, catheters and surgical implants – and hasn’t been linked to any health concerns. Some brands employ thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), an alternative material which is safer than latex production but more cost effective to produce.
Although adjusting to using a cup may take some getting used to, many women find them more comfortable than pads or tampons, plus it doesn’t need changing as frequently.
Before your first period begins, it is crucial that you read and practice inserting the menstrual cup according to its instructions and practice its insertion. Many find it easier if they wet the cup or apply water-based lubricant before inserting. Furthermore, try squatting or sitting on the toilet, folding your cup into either an “C” or “U” shape, or fold into 7 shapes so as to narrow down its entry point for easier insertion.
They’re easy to use
Menstrual cups are easy to use and reduce waste, which helps the environment.
However, if it’s your first time, it may take time to learn how to insert and remove them properly. It is recommended to use some kind of lubricant – such as water or medical-grade lubricants – prior to inserting or removing one.
You can insert the cup using either a C-fold, U-fold (press the sides together from the top so it resembles either letter), punch-down fold (7 folds) or punch-down fold (2-folds). After inserting it, be sure to rotate it to ensure an airtight seal is achieved.
If your cup is not properly cleaned and sanitized after every use, bacteria could enter your vagina and lead to irritation and odor. Furthermore, if it’s not the appropriate size (for instance, smaller sizes are typically recommended for women under 30 who have never given birth vaginally), leakage could occur; for this reason it should always be used by women of reproductive age (usually those without given birth vaginally).
They’re mess-free
Menstrual cups are reusable, less messy, and less environmental impactful than pads and tampons. Their environmental footprint is reduced as they don’t contribute to period-related landfill waste. Menstrual cups are generally easy to use but may take some practice before getting the hang of it; those who wear an IUD may be unable to insert one properly – it is crucial that these women remove their cup before having sexual encounters!
To use a menstrual cup, fold it tightly with its rim up and insert it like you would a regular tampon without an applicator into your vagina. Once in position, it springs open creating an airtight seal to stop leaks.
Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours and help address period poverty – the lack of access to sufficient period products. To remove one, pinch the base to release its suction against vaginal walls before wiggling it out.
