Menstrual cups.
Intimated? Give this a read.
Most of us are used to using standard sanitary napkins (pads) or tampons.
For those of you who aren't quite familiar with these cups, let's begin with what it really is.
A menstrual cup is a type of feminine hygiene product that is used as an alternative to tampons and pads. It is a small, bell-shaped device made of medical-grade silicone, rubber, or latex that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid.
Unlike tampons and pads, which absorb menstrual fluid, menstrual cups simply collect it and can be emptied and reinserted as needed.
Benefits of the Cup
Menstrual cups are a popular choice among women since they are more economical and environmentally friendly than conventional tampons and pads. They are a wise solution for those looking to decrease waste and save money because period cups can last for years with regular maintenance and cleaning.
Since they don't dry up the vaginal canal or cause friction while being worn, they are more comfortable than tampons and pads. Additionally, they can hold a lot more menstrual fluid, allowing you to wear them for extended periods of time without worrying about leaks.
Menstrual cups also have the benefit of being significantly safer than tampons. Tampons can potentially result in toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a condition that can be fatal and is brought on by the development of dangerous bacteria in the vagina, this is quite rare but it is definitely something to consider. Menstrual cups significantly minimize this risk because they don't absorb moisture or encourage the development of dangerous bacteria.
Hidden Costs of Tampons and Pads
If you aren't already convinced to make the switch - let us throw down some numbers.
An average mensurating woman would have a cycle of around 5 days between the average menstruating age of 12 to 52.
She would have to change her tampon or pad every 6 hours as per what is recommended and safe. This means that she uses around 4 a day, multiplied by 5 for a single cycle. This gives us a total of 240 per year and 1200 for a period of 5 years.
If we take an average of 25 cents per tampon, it results in a woman spending a minimum of around $300 for 5 years worth of supplies.
Let's not even begin with the number of panty-liners or the extra supplies needed for an extended cycle and so on. If you're someone who uses natural sanitary napkins and other premium products, the price would definitely reach an even higher bracket.
On the other hand, a single-period cup can be used for up to 3-5 years based on the brand and usage and they would cost approximately around $30.
The Downside Of Cups
Personally, I don't see much of a downside to using these cups. However, you will struggle to use these cups the first few times. In fact, it took me a few months to finally be comfortable using these.
There are certain techniques that you might have to use to fold the cup in the right way to make the insertion process a little easier and less painful. From here on it is a self-learning journey and one that is filled with many trials and errors.
You will have to find a way that works best for you and stick to that till you master it and wearing the cup is no longer a hassle!
Apart from this, the cleaning process is something that does bother people which makes them shy away from using a cup. Yes, it can get a little messy once in a while but if you follow the right technique - you will be able to get it out with ease.
Answer To Your Questions
I asked some of my Instagram audience to bring me some of their common questions that surround using period cups and there were quite a few responses to that as well.
One - How do I clean the cup?
This is a very important part of this process. You need to make sure you sanitize your cup well and keep it clean before every use. All I do is, after every use, I soak the cup for a few minutes in boiling hot water along with some salt to cleanse it. After my cycle is complete, I soak the cup, wipe it dry, and then store it in the satin pouch that comes along with the cup.
It really is that simple! You can also use a cleaning liquid if you like, but I don't think that is needed either.
Two - Will it get lost in my body?
No, the cup works on a suction mechanism. Sometimes it might go deeper into your body than expected but you can easily get it out as well. In fact, the chances of a tampon getting lost are much higher. Even if you're not able to find the tail of the cup, you can just crouch down and apply a little pressure to get it out.
Three - Will it spill or splatter when I try to take it out?
There is a specific method that is used to take the cup out. As I mentioned before, the cup works like a vacuum to be able to seal the canal and fit against the walls to prevent any leakage.
To remove the cup, you have to break the seal by pinching at the bottom of the cup to release the air. After this, you have to gently twist the cup while pulling it out by holding the tail. Relax your body while doing this and if needed you can even crouch.
Four - Is it safe to use? Will it affect my virginity?
Menstrual cups are made of medical-grade silicone that is safe to use if you purchase them from a reputable brand. If you look on the flip side - take a look at the label of the pad or tampon brand that you are currently using. Do you see a list of chemicals that you can not even pronounce? Precisely.
As for the matter regarding one's virginity, the entire term is defined based on sexual intercourse and not the intactness of the hymen, to begin with. Besides, the cup wouldn't even go that far up into your body.
Product Recommendations
There are a few things to consider if you're thinking about switching to a menstrual cup. Because some lower-quality menstrual cups may contain hazardous substances, it is crucial to select one that is constructed of medical-grade materials. In order to achieve the optimum fit and comfort, it's crucial to choose the proper size and kind of menstruation cup.
There are many brands that sell good-quality menstrual cups in different fits and sizes. You can choose to buy any type based on your preference, but here are a few suggestions if you're looking to buy a period cup.
Cleaning & Sterilisation products -
I have been using a menstrual cup for over 3 years now, and I do not regret switching.
The whole point of sharing my experience was to get rid of certain mysteries and myths that were surrounding these cups - they really aren't as intimidating as they are made to sound.
I don't know about you, but I somehow always forget to restock on pads and that leaves me running to the store at the last minute. If you're anything like me, these cups will come as a savior for those emergencies cause all you will have to do is sanitize the cup and reuse it.
I would however say that it is still up to one's own self - do whatever makes you feel the most comfortable.
Love,
Rae
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Image credits - Maddie Bazzocco
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