What is a Menstrual Cup and Benefits to Using One
This post contains affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for your support!
I recently discovered menstrual cups, and I can’t believe I didn’t know about them sooner! After having a baby, tampons just weren’t working properly for me anymore. I’ll spare you the details, but I found myself having to change them very frequently, which was both inconvenient and expensive. That’s when I stumbled upon menstrual cups, and it was a game-changer. Reusable menstrual cups offer a reusable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution to different products.
I personally use the Diva Cup, and it has made a huge difference in my period routine. Let me walk you through how these cups work and why they might be the perfect option for you too. If you’re looking for more options to compare, Walmart offers this cup by the The Honey Pot Company, which provides similar benefits at a lower price.
What is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup, also known as a period cup, is a small, flexible device made from medical-grade silicone or rubber (WebMD). Instead of absorbing menstrual blood like tampons or pads, the cup is inserted into the vaginal canal where it collects the blood, offering a more sustainable and potentially more comfortable period solution. Menstrual cups come in different sizes and levels of firmness to accommodate different body types and flow levels, ensuring the right fit and increased comfort.
How Do Menstrual Cups Work?
Using a menstrual cup is straightforward: fold the cup (various folding techniques are available), insert it into your vagina, and allow it to unfold. The cup then creates a seal against the vaginal walls to prevent leaks. It collects menstrual blood throughout the day, and after several hours (typically 6-12, depending on your flow), you remove the cup, empty the contents into the toilet, rinse it, and reinsert it.
How to Remove a Menstrual Cup?
To remove a menstrual cup, follow these steps as outlined on WebMD:
- Wash Your Hands: Before you begin, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.
- Relax: Find a comfortable position, either sitting on the toilet, standing with one leg elevated, or squatting. Take a deep breath to relax your pelvic muscles, as this will make removal easier.
- Locate the Cup: Insert your fingers into the vagina until you can feel the base of the menstrual cup. If your cup has a stem, you could pull the stem of the cup to guide the cup lower.
- Break the Seal: To remove the cup comfortably, you need to break the suction seal that the cup forms against your vaginal walls. To do this, pinch the base of the cup (not the stem) to release the suction. If you can’t reach the base, try wiggling the cup from side to side or sliding a finger up the side of the cup to press it in and release the seal.
- Gently Remove the Cup: Once the seal is broken, slowly and gently pull the cup out while keeping it upright to avoid spilling the contents.
- Empty and Clean: Pour the cup’s contents into the toilet or sink. To prevent staining, start by rinsing the cup with cold water, or wipe it with toilet paper if water isn’t available. Afterward, you can rinse with warm water for added comfort before reinserting.
- Reinsert or Store: If you’re still on your period, you can reinsert the cup after cleaning it. If your period is over, clean the cup thoroughly and store it in a breathable bag or container until your next cycle. I like to boil it after every menstrual cycle and store in the carrying pouch it came with.
Remember, with practice, removing the cup becomes easier and quicker.
Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups offer numerous advantages over traditional menstrual products like pads and tampons. Here are some key benefits:
Cost-Effective
A single menstrual cup can last for several years, significantly reducing the ongoing costs associated with monthly purchases of disposable period products.
Environmentally Friendly
Unlike disposable pads and tampons, menstrual cups are reusable, leading to a reduction in waste and a lower environmental footprint.
Health Benefits
Menstrual cups are typically made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, or thermoplastic elastomer, meaning they are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic fibers found in some disposable products. They also carry a lower risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) compared to tampons (WebMD).
Convenience
Menstrual cups can hold more fluid than pads or tampons, often allowing for up to 12 hours of protection. This makes them especially convenient for overnight use and for people with busy schedules.
Less Odor
Since menstrual fluid is not exposed to air when using a cup, there is generally less odor compared to pads and tampons (WebMD).
By considering these benefits, I found that switching to a menstrual cup improved my menstrual experience in multiple ways.
Who Can Benefit from Using a Menstrual Cup?
Menstrual cups can be an excellent option for many women, including:
- Moms: After childbirth, tampons may no longer feel as comfortable. A menstrual cup offers a flexible, comfortable alternative.
- Active Women: For those who exercise regularly or have an active lifestyle, the menstrual cup stays in place and handles heavy activity without worry.
- Eco-Conscious Individuals: If you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint, a reusable menstrual cup is a great choice.
- Women with Heavy Flow: Menstrual cups can hold more fluid than tampons, making them ideal for women with a heavier menstrual flow.
Practical Tips for Using a Menstrual Cup
Using a menstrual cup can seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it can become a seamless part of your daily routine. Many users wonder about comfort and practicality, such as whether they can wear the cup during various activities or even if they can go to the bathroom without removing it.
Can You Pee with a Menstrual Cup In?
- Yes, you can! The menstrual cup sits in the vaginal canal, not in the urethra, so it doesn’t interfere with urination. For a more detailed explanation, check out my post where I dive into the specifics of how this works and some tips for ensuring comfort throughout the day.
What If My Menstrual Cup Leaks?
- Leaks can happen if the cup isn’t inserted correctly or if the seal isn’t tight. Learning how to troubleshoot these issues can prevent leaks and discomfort. Period Nirvana shares an excellent video of what to do about leaks here.
Is a Menstrual Cup Safe for Teenagers?
- Menstrual cups are an option for teens as well, but choosing the right size and material is key to ensuring comfort.
Can You Sleep with a Menstrual Cup In?
- With its long wear time, a menstrual cup is a convenient option for overnight use, reducing the need for changes and providing leak protection. Find more info at our other article here.
How Do I Clean My Menstrual Cup?
- Proper cleaning is essential to maintain your cup’s longevity and hygiene. After each use, rinse the cup with water, and at the end of your cycle, sterilize it by boiling it for 5-10 minutes.
Why I Made the Switch to a Diva Cup
When I learned about period cups, I was intrigued by the idea of a reusable product that could hold more fluid and potentially be more comfortable. The menstrual cup not only addresses these concerns but also offers the added benefits of being eco-friendly and cost-effective. You can use one cup for years with proper care, saving you money and reducing waste.
You can read more about my first time using my Diva cup in this article.
If you are interested in trying a reusable cup (or other reusable period products like menstrual discs, period underwear, etc.), I have a special code for 15% off at Diva. Just use code Melanie15 at checkout.
References
- WebMD. (2023). What’s a Menstrual Cup?
