What are menstrual cups?
Menstrual cups are product for women to use during their menstruation. It is a silicon or rubber funnel-shaped cup that you insert in your vagina. It is small in size and easy to use as it is flexible. It can be used for up to 6 to 12 hours depending on your flow. It is a great eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to a tampon or sanitary napkin as it is reusable.
Are menstrual cups safe to use?
Unlike tampons or sanitary pads, menstrual cups collect blood instead of absorbing it, and hence are more hygienic. They also hold up to 2 to 3 ounces of blood as compared to tampons that hold only 1/3 ounce. They are more practical and a one-time investment that you can use for years to come. You needn’t be concerned about the effectiveness of menstrual cups – They create an airtight seal in your vagina that avoids any leaks or staining, and can also be used overnight.
How to know what kind of menstrual cup to buy?
Yes, there are menstrual cups available in different sizes and brands. Before you invest in a menstrual cup, you should consider consulting your gynaecologist. Usually, there are two sizes available: small and large. The small cup is recommended for women who are below the age of 30 and have not given birth naturally. On other hand, the large cup is suggested to be used by women who are above the age of 30 and/or have given vaginal birth. It also largely depends on how heavy your flow is, as this differs from woman to woman.
How to use a menstrual cup?
While most women are a little sceptical or confused about how to use a menstrual cup, there is nothing to worry about as it is fairly easy to use.
To put it in:-
Step 1: Make sure your hands are clean. Wash them carefully before using the cup to avoid infections.
Step 2: Apply water or a water-based lubricate on the rim of the cup to insert the cup effortlessly.
Step 3: Fold the menstrual cup in half.
Step 4: Insert the cup rim side facing up into your vagina. It should sit a few inches below your cervix.
Step 5: Rotate the cup once after inserting in your vagina.
Once inserted, you should not feel the cup in your vagina. In case it is a little uncomfortable, it means that you haven’t inserted it properly.
To pull it out:-
Step 1: Begin with washing your hands and making sure that they are clean.
Step 2: Use your index finger and thumb to reach the rim of the cup and then pull out gently.
Step 3: Empty the cup into the toilet or sink and wash until clean for reuse.
How many times can a menstrual cup be reused?
A menstrual cup can be used up to 5 years. However if you can afford to, you should change it every 6 to 12 months. You must clean your menstrual cup in boiling water every month or after every period. Clean out the cup twice a day in order to maintain hygiene and prevent overflow.
Factors to take into consideration before buying a menstrual cup
- Even though they are environment friendly, if proper care is not taken, they may cause infections or irritation.
- Always make sure that your cups is clean before you insert it in your vagina, else it may cause an infection.
- If it is not inserted properly, it may cause spillage and a mess.
- Never share the cup with anyone for hygiene purposes.
- In some rare cases, a woman may be allergic to the material used to make these cups. Thus, if you have extra sensitive skin, be sure to consult a doctor before you use it and take extra precaution.
