Introduction
Menstrual cups are becoming an increasingly popular option for women who are looking to manage their periods in a sustainable, eco-friendly way.
While menstrual cups may seem like a strange concept at first, they’re surprisingly easy to use and provide numerous benefits over traditional tampons or pads. How to use menstrual cup properly is the real chaos. In this article, we will explore the basics of using a menstrual cup and why it is such an effective alternative to other period management methods. We’ll also discuss some tips and tricks that can help you get the most out of your menstrual cup so you can experience all its benefits. So let’s get started!
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible funnel-shaped cup that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. The cup can be made of different materials such as silicone or rubber and is available in different sizes. Menstrual cups are a counterpart to pads and tampons. The cup can be worn for up to 12 hours before it needs to be emptied, washed, and reused.
How does it work?
When it comes to using a menstrual cup, the process is actually quite simple. All you need to do is fold the cup so that it fits snugly inside your vagina. Once the cup is in place, it will collect all of your menstrual blood. When you’re ready to empty the cup, simply remove it from your vagina and dump the contents into the toilet. Then, give the cup a quick rinse with water and reinsert it.
How to use a menstrual cup?
1. Fold the cup in half or in thirds and insert it into the vagina like a tampon.
2. Rotate the cup once it’s inside the vagina to ensure that it unfolds and seals against the vaginal wall.
3. Wear the cup for up to 12 hours, emptying and rinsing it as needed.
4. To remove the cup, break the seal by pinching the base of the cup and then gently pull it out of the vagina.
5. Empty the contents of the cup into the toilet and rinse it with water before reinserting it.
6. Sterilize the menstrual cup in hot water before storing it until your next period.
Advantages of using a menstrual cup
1. Cost-Effective:
A menstrual cup is a one-time purchase and can last up to 10 years, depending on the brand and quality. This makes it much more cost-effective than disposable products such as tampons and pads, which must be purchased regularly.
2. Environmentally Friendly:
Menstrual cups do not produce any waste as they are reusable; this reduces the amount of waste created by disposable menstrual products.
3. Leak Protection:
Menstrual cups have been found to provide better leak protection than other types of menstrual products due to their shape and design. This is especially helpful during heavy days of your cycle when you need extra protection from leaks or stains.
4. Comfort:
Menstrual cups are designed to provide a comfortable fit that conforms to your body’s natural curves and contours for added comfort. Additionally, some brands offer different sizes for an even better fit. Menstrual cups can be worn and women can indulge in any kind of adventure activities or swimming without the fear of leaking.
5. Health Benefits:
Menstrual cups can reduce the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) compared to other types of menstrual products since there is no direct contact between the cup and the skin or mucous membranes, which eliminates the potential for bacteria growth in a moist environment.
Disadvantages of using a menstrual cup
There are a few disadvantages of using a menstrual cup that should be considered before making the switch from tampons or pads. First, it can be difficult to insert and remove the cup, especially if you’re not used to doing so. This can lead to some discomfort and even leakage if not done correctly. Additionally, the cup must be cleaned after each use which can be a bit of a hassle. Lastly, they are not always readily available in stores so you may have to order one online.
How to care for your menstrual cup?
To care for your menstrual cup, you will need to empty it couple of times a day and give it a good rinse before reinserting it. At the end of your period, you can sterilize your cup by boiling it in water for 5 minutes. Be sure to store your menstrual cup in a clean, dry place when not in use.
Conclusion
Menstrual cups are a great choice for those who want an eco-friendly, cost-effective and long-lasting alternative to tampons and pads. Knowing how to use them properly is key! From sterilizing the cup prior to insertion, making sure it is properly positioned inside your body and emptying and reinserting the cup at least twice a day during your period – you should be confident about using menstrual cups after reading this article. There are several YouTube videos that demonstrate the usage of menstrual cups, make sure to watch them for a visual guide. Menstrual cups offer freedom from the fear of leakage that comes with tampons or pads as well as reducing waste associated with disposable menstrual products. Start today by trying out a menstrual cup!
