When you think about your period, the one that happens during your monthly cycle, you automatically think of using either a sanitary napkin or a tampon. However, there have been recent trends that involve a thing called a “menstrual cup”. What is a menstrual cup, even?
How to insert and how to remove a menstrual cup?
A flexible cup that women can insert into their vaginas to collect their menstrual flow is called a menstrual cup, and it does exactly what it says on the label. They come in reusable and disposable varieties and are constructed of silicone or latex rubber. Menstrual cups are reusable feminine hygiene products. To catch and gather menstrual fluid, you insert a tiny, flexible cup into your vagina. It is funnel-shaped and constructed of silicone or rubber.
Since cups may hold more blood than other methods, many women use them as an eco-friendly alternative to tampons. Additionally, depending on your flow, you can wear a cup for up to 12 hours.
Choosing Menstrual Cups
If you’ve inserted the menstrual cup properly, you shouldn’t be able to feel it. Additionally, you should be able to move around, jump, sit, stand, and perform other common activities without your cup spilling. Consult your doctor if you’re experiencing problems inserting your cup.
Taking out your menstrual cup
Simple steps to remove a menstrual cup are as follows:
- Clean your hands completely.
- Insert your thumb and index finger inside the vagina. You may reach the base of the cup by gently pulling the stem.
- To remove the cup, pull down while pinching the base to release the seal.
- After it has been removed, pour the cup into a sink or bathroom.
Menstrual cups are well-liked period goods since they are reusable and frequently less expensive.
However, initially taking them out can be a little difficult (and dirty).
You might be able to wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours, depending on how strong your flow is. In either case, it must be taken out and emptied when it gets full. Once you get used to it, the operation only takes a few seconds: just pinch the base and gently pull it down to remove the cup. Remember to wash your hands first.
If it’s difficult for you to take out your menstrual cup, you can follow these quick and simple instructions.
Before sticking your fingers into your vagina, thoroughly wash your hands with soap. Put yourself in a comfortable position after they are clean. Squatting or sitting on the toilet may be necessary for this. the base of the menstrual cup until you can feel it with your thumb and index finger. If your cup has a stem, you might need to gently take it out in order to get to the base. Pinch the base once you can feel it to release the seal. Then, while continuing to grasp the base to prevent spills and make the process more comfortable, carefully draw down until the cup is removed.
You might feel some pain or discomfort if you try to remove the menstrual cup without pinching the base. That’s a result of the suction seal that was still present after you inserted the cup. Try pinching and pulling down instead. Put your finger next to the cup and gently press it on the vaginal wall if you’re having trouble getting to the base. Then, carefully slide your finger out by hooking it over the rim. Although messy, this can help prevent or lessen discomfort.
Caring for Menstrual Cup
Before reinsertion into your vagina, reusable menstruation cups should be cleaned and disinfected. You should empty your cup at least twice every day.
With the right maintenance, reusable menstruation cups are strong and can endure for six months to ten years. After removal, dispose of the disposable cups.
Reasons To Use Menstrual Cups
When you are used to sanitary napkins or tampons, shifting to a menstrual cup may seem a little inconvenient despite people saying otherwise. It is normal to feel that way. However, we want you to be able to expand on your options. Here is a list of reasons why you should consider switching to menstrual cups:
Safe and Effective
The meta-analysis on the use of menstruation cups around the world was released on July 16 and examined data from 3,319 women and girls from 43 research. It discovered that menstruation cups were just as effective at stopping leaks as disposable tampons and pads, if not better.
Avoids Dryness
Period cups don’t dry you out or affect your vaginal flora because they collect the menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. It is manufactured entirely of medical-grade silicone, the healthiest product material currently on the market, making it hypoallergenic and devoid of any latex or rubber or other dangerous ingredients.
No Toxins, Perfumes, or Bleaches
Like a tampon, a menstrual cup is inserted into the vagina, however unlike tampons and pads, it is devoid of chemicals, perfumes, and bleaches and doesn’t leave any fiber residues. This significantly lowers the chance of developing bacterial or yeast infections, as well as rashes.
High Capacity
Tampons and menstruation pads are outperformed by menstrual cups, which can store three times as much as a tampon. It can be worn for up to eight hours. This makes it a particularly excellent alternative for women who have lengthy or demanding days.
Sustainable and Eco-friendly
Menstrual cups have a ten-year shelf life. As a result, you only need to purchase one item and eliminate obscene amounts of plastic applicator and tampon waste. Let’s face the facts: using a menstrual cup instead of tampons can help the environment by up to 12000 tampons per woman.
Fewer Visits to Drugstores
You will still make 11 fewer trips to the shop than you would if you used throwaway, paper-based solutions, even if you just replace your cup once a year.
Conclusion
Utilizing a menstrual cup is a no-brainer for many women. Make sure you are familiar with what you require in a feminine hygiene product before switching:
- Will you pay less for a cup?
- Is using it simpler?
- Do you desire sex when on your period?
The menstrual cup is the best option if you said yes to these questions. But if you’re still undecided, discuss your options and the menstrual product that might be most effective for you with your gynecologist.
