Menstrual cups offer an eco- and budget-friendly option to pads and tampons, reducing landfill waste while being reused year after year.
They’re easy to use; anyone familiar with tampons (especially without applicators) or diaphragm birth control should find themselves adapting quickly.
They’re safe
Menstrual cups are reusable tampon alternatives made of medical-grade silicone that’s safe to use. Like traditional tampons, menstrual cups collect blood but do not absorb it, typically being inserted by folding and pressing against the cervix until airtight seal is achieved. Some women find it easier to insert their cup while sitting or standing, and may apply water-based lubricant to reduce friction during insertion.
Menstrual cups don’t absorb into the vaginal environment, avoiding disruption of its delicate pH balance and potentially harmful bacteria that could contribute to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). While tampons carry some risk of TSS, none has ever been associated with using menstrual cups; in fact there have been no reported cases associated with using one either! Typically TSS occurs from leaving tampons in for too long or using ones with higher absorbency compared with necessary, but menstrual cups don’t pose these potential dangers as they’re body safe materials without chemicals like some single use products may do.
They’re easy to use
Menstrual cups are easy to use and maintain, as well as helping reduce the environmental impact of period care. Because they’re reusable, less waste clogs landfills while less trees are sacrificed in favor of paper tampons and pads.
Fold the cup tightly with its rim up, placing it gently into your vagina at an approximately 45-degree angle towards your tailbone. Some people find it easier to insert their cup by squatting or sitting on a toilet; everyone’s experience may differ. You could also try adding water-based lube for easier insertion.
Some brands require you to boil your cup for the first time you use it; most don’t require it every time. For optimal results, wash your hands both before and after handling your cup to reduce bacteria levels.
They’re mess-free
Menstrual cups are reusable, which means less waste will end up in landfills while saving money over time compared to tampons and pads.
These devices are made to be leakproof and remain securely in place during vaginal sex. Furthermore, they’re less odorous than tampons due to blood being contained by nonporous barriers that don’t expose it to airborne contaminants.
Menstrual cups typically made of silicone are available, though latex options are also available for women who are allergic to this material. There is also a range of sizes available from small to extra large.
Menstrual cups may seem confusing or difficult to use at first, but most women can adapt quickly with practice. Folding the right way is key as well as not pulling on the stem when trying to remove it; to be on the safe side it may also help having water or baby wipes handy to rinse your cup post-removal.
They’re less odorous
Menstrual cups are reusable alternatives to pads and tampons that collect blood rather than absorb it, similar to an empty mug collecting raindrops. Most menstrual cups are constructed out of silicone while some also exist made of rubber (for those allergic to latex should opt for silicone models).
Menstrual cup odor is less likely than with tampons and pads due to fewer fluid exposure points, though bacteria growth could still cause unpleasant odors – thus practicing good hygiene is vitally important.
Menstrual cups typically last 12 hours before needing replacing, and many women find they can continue using one cup for their entire period, rather than switching tampons every four to eight hours. You’ll save money and reduce waste created from making paper-based products and waste that clogs landfills.
