Are you tired of spending too much of your monthly income on menstrual cycle products? Are you worried about getting TSS from using tampons and pads? Maybe it’s time for you to make the switch to a safer, healthier and much cheaper alternative: the menstrual cup.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a small bell-shaped “cup” used by women during menstruation. It is becoming increasingly popular as awareness of this small product grows. It goes by various names: the Diva Cup, the Ruby Cup, etc.
What is it made of?
Typically, a menstrual cup is made of silicone, plastic, latex or medical grade rubber. Some women may find certain materials more comfortable than others. Certain types of materials may also cause allergies or vaginal reactions, so be sure to check with your doctor before using a particular type of product.
How does a menstrual cup work?
A menstrual cup works differently from its “menstrual products” counterpart. Tampons and pads are made of super-absorbent materials that soak up menstrual blood. They usually need to be changed every 3-6 hours, depending on the flow and size of the product.
A menstrual cup, on the other hand, is inserted into the vaginal opening, like a tampon. However, instead of absorbing menstrual blood, it collects it in the “container” part of the cup. The best part about using a menstrual cup is that you can keep it in for almost 12 hours without worrying about “changing” the product.
Keep in mind that this can vary from person to person. If you have a heavy flow, you may need to clean your menstrual cup more often to be on the safe side.
Once you are ready to clean the contents of the menstrual cup, you should safely remove it from the inside and flush the contents down a sink or toilet. Wash the cup thoroughly and boil it for 5 minutes to disinfect it. After this, you can reuse the cup or store it for later use.
How to choose the right size?
You need to know that there is no “standard” size menstrual cup. There is no one size fits all. Most menstrual cups come in two sizes, but some companies may offer three for variety.
Typically, the “small size” menstrual cup measures between 35 and 43 mm. The “large” menstrual cup measures between 43 and 48 mm. This refers to the diameter of the cups.
If you are using one for the first time, it is recommended that you start with the “small size”. This will help you understand how to use the cup, insertion and removal, and help you assess whether you should move up to a larger size.
Choosing cup size based on age and whether you have given birth
One of the best ways to choose the “right size” menstrual cup for you is to consider your age and whether you have given birth naturally.
So, if you are under 30 and have never given birth, you may need a “small size” cup. On the other hand, if you are over 30 or have given birth, the “large” cup may be more suitable for you.
Choosing cup size based on flow rate
Some brands tell their customers to choose a cup size based on their flow.
This is incorrect as your flow will only make you need to change more often. The choice of size has to do with the diameter of the cup as the cup needs to fit snugly against your vaginal walls.
Keep in mind that these are by no means “guidelines” that you should follow. As mentioned above, the size that fits you perfectly will vary from person to person and brand to brand.
Choosing a cup size based on length
Did you know that some women have what is known as a “low cervix”? This can be measured by inserting a clean finger into the vaginal opening during your period and “feeling” for the cervix. For some women, the cervix may be easy to locate, known as the “low cervix”. However, if you cannot find the cervix, you have a “high cervix” (both are completely fine, and neither is “abnormal”).
Once you locate the cervix (it should feel like a slightly rough, fleshy object against your finger), place your thumb against your finger to measure the “cervix length”. This will help you choose the correct menstrual cup length.
Choosing cup size based on capacity
As mentioned above, there are “small” and “large” menstrual cups. Small cups hold about 43 millilitres, while large cups can hold 46 millilitres.
However, it should be noted that most of these cups (even the small ones) can hold more blood than a super tampon. Most women will not be able to fill the entire capacity of a cup in 12 hours.
If you feel this may be a problem for you, clean the cup in a few hours to measure how much you have bled. You might be surprised at how little you bleed during your period (even if it seems like you bleed a LOT more!).
Does it hurt to use a menstrual cup?
No. Once you put the menstrual cup in correctly, you shouldn’t be able to feel it at all! If you are using the cup for the first time, you may feel a slight discomfort when inserting or removing it. However, this sensation should pass after a while.
Is it safe to use?
Yes! A menstrual cup is completely safe to use, as long as you do not suffer any pain, discomfort or have an allergic reaction to the material. If you face any of these problems, see your doctor immediately. They will be able to help you find a different brand to use, which will be much more comfortable for your personal use.
Menstrual cups do not contain any chemicals or toxic substances that can cause harm to your body. There is no risk of getting TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) from using menstrual cups. In addition, they are also eco-friendly and safe for the environment.
No waste is generated as you don’t “use and throw away” a menstrual cup in the same way you would a tampon or pad.
If menstrual cups work so well, why aren’t they more popular?
Well, this is a multifaceted answer to a seemingly simple question.
First of all, menstrual cups have been around since the 1930s, but they are only becoming popular recently, with growing awareness of the product. People have many misconceptions about this product, making it “taboo” to use or even talk about.
Fortunately, with increased awareness and marketing campaigns, more and more women understand the benefits of using this product. It is completely safe to use, can be used by everyone without fear, and is much more cost-effective and long-lasting than other “disposable products”.
With more people becoming aware and using it, the fear and misconceptions of the menstrual cup are slowly being eroded. So, are you ready to try this brilliant solution that will save you money and is also good for the environment? Congratulations!😍
