Menstrual cups have become increasingly popular as an eco-friendly and cost-cutting alternative to pads and tampons. Not only are they more sustainable but they come in various colors as well.
Some women can find menstrual cups difficult to adjust to at first, but with practice and support from peers it can become easier over time. Common complaints about using menstrual cups include leaks and messy removal.
They’re reusable
Menstrual cups are eco-friendly alternatives to pads and tampons. Crafted of medical-grade silicone or rubber, these flexible cups can be easily inserted into the vagina and used to collect menstrual blood instead of absorbing it, lasting up to 12 hours of wear before being taken out and emptied out for disposal. Hypoallergenic and nontoxic materials make menstrual cups safe to use on an ongoing basis.
Menstrual cup manufacturers provide an array of sizes and shapes, so you’re sure to find one that meets your individual preferences. To insert it, start by applying a thin layer of water-based lube or vaginal gel onto its rim.
Fold the menstrual cup so that its rim forms the shape of a “C” or number 7. This will make insertion easier, then rotate it until an airtight seal forms, eliminating leakage altogether and giving you freedom to move, jump, sit or stand without your cup falling out!
They’re more comfortable
Menstrual cups provide an alternative that doesn’t expose blood to air and cause an odorous period experience, lasting for up to 12 hours without needing reapplication during school hours.
Menstrual cups offer women more comfort than pads and tampons, though there can be some disadvantages associated with using one. They must be used with proper lubricant; otherwise they could irritate vaginal tissue when used without first applying some. Furthermore, each use requires thorough washing after every use – which could present difficulties for those living without access to clean water.
Menstrual cups are reusable products, meaning less waste for landfills and trees lost to paper-based products. Furthermore, they’re often cheaper than tampons as you can use them over long periods and purchase in bulk. Though initially difficult to insert and remove, once used regularly they can become much more comfortable than pads or tampons and you can trim their stem with scissors or nail clippers to make insertion/removal even simpler!
They’re less expensive
Menstrual cups are more cost-effective and reusable alternatives to pads than pads can ever be, and hold more blood for extended use without needing changes as often. Furthermore, their use prevents toxic shock syndrome which is common when using tampons or pads alone.
Menstrual cups come in both small and large sizes to accommodate people with light to heavy flows, respectively. Small sizes should be used by those experiencing lighter flow while larger cups should be chosen if giving birth vaginally has occurred.
Before using again, your menstrual cup must first be cleaned. Rinsing with water or using an antimicrobial solution designed for this task will suffice; then sterilize it in boiling water as soon as its been washed. Some brands of menstrual cups come equipped with breathable cloth bags or cases to store between uses – these cases may come in handy especially when traveling; alternatively you could store it in sealed jars.
They’re easy to insert
Menstrual cups are easier to use than pads or tampons, allowing users to wear them for up to 12 hours without leakage. Furthermore, their cost effectiveness makes them an environmentally-friendly solution with reduced landfill waste and tree sacrificed due to paper alternatives.
To insert the menstrual cup, apply a thin layer of water-based lubricant or your own vaginal fluid to ensure it slides into place smoothly and comfortably. As with any new technology, practice using your menstrual cup before your period starts so you know how to insert and use it correctly.
Brands designed specifically to accommodate beginners include the Cora Cup with its intuitive finger indent and soft medical-grade silicone material, or Flex Cup with its pull tab for easy removal that can even be used with an intrauterine device (IUD). No matter which option you select, make sure to read and follow all directions carefully as well as maintain its cleanliness regularly.
