The menstrual cup is a reusable feminine hygiene tool. During periods, women can use a menstruation cup, which is a compact, flexible funnel-shaped cup. It’s a silicone or rubber tube that goes into the vaginal canal to collect menstrual blood.
Many women have switched to environmentally friendly menstrual cups since they can contain more blood than traditional feminine hygiene products like sanitary napkins or tampons. Compared to sanitary pads and tampons, menstrual cups are a more sustainable, healthy, and convenient option.
Depending on your period flow, you can wear the menstrual cup from 6 hours to up to 12 hours. It is less expensive when compared to tampons and sanitary napkins. Cups are a popular eco-friendly alternative to tampons since they can hold more blood than other methods. They’re free from harmful chemicals, perfumes, and toxins, and they’re also leak-proof.
How do I use a menstrual cup properly?
Before you decide to transition to a menstruation cup, talk to your gynaecologist. You’ll need to figure out your size first, as many feminine hygiene manufacturers sell menstruation cups in a variety of sizes. To do so, you and your gynaecologist must consider the following aspects:
- What is your age?
- Cervix length
- Whether you have a heavy flow or not,
- The menstruation cup’s flexibility and rigidity
- Capacity of a cup
- Pelvic floor muscle strength.
- If you’ve had a vaginal birth,
Women under the age of 30 who haven’t given birth vaginally should use smaller menstrual cups. Women over 30 years old, who have given birth vaginally, or who have a heavier period are often advised to go up a size.
Prior to inserting your menstrual cup
When using a menstrual cup for the first time, it’s natural to be apprehensive. However, by “greasing” your cup, the technique can be made to go more smoothly. However, with the proper technique and a little practice, you can learn how to properly use a menstrual cup.
How to insert the Cup
The steps for using a menstruation cup are as follows:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Apply a water-based lube to the edge of the menstrual cup to help you insert it into your vagina.
- Fold the menstrual cup in half firmly and hold it in one hand, the rim pointing up.
- Insert the menstrual cup (rim facing up) into your vaginal opening.
- A few inches beneath your cervix, the cup should be able to fit.
- Rotate the menstrual cup once it has been inserted into your vagina. The cup will spring open as you rotate it, creating an airtight seal inside the vagina and preventing leaks.
- If you’ve inserted your menstrual cup properly, you shouldn’t be able to feel it. You should be able to move around, run, sit, jump, and do other normal activities without your cup slipping out. If you’re having trouble inserting your cup, talk to your doctor.
Taking Out a Menstruation Cup:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Insert your thumb and index finger gently into your vaginal opening.
- Slowly pull the stem of the menstrual cup all the way to the bottom. Pinch the base slightly to loosen the air tightness.
- Pull the menstruation cup down to remove it.
- Empty the blood into the toilet or sink after you’ve taken it out. Clean it completely with water before re-inserting it.
Aftercare for the cup
- Reusable menstruation cups should be cleaned and wiped clean before being reinserted into your vagina.
- To limit the risk of irritation, the menstrual cup should be emptied twice per day.
- Reusable menstruation cups have a long lifespan, lasting anywhere from six months to ten years if proper care is taken. Throw away the disposable cups after removing them.
