Your Guide to a Menstrual Cup
What is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup is a flexible, funnel-shaped device. It is made from materials such as medical-grade silicone, TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), or latex. You insert it into your vagina. It sits below your cervix and collects your menstrual blood. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The cup has a firm rim and small air holes. These help it spring open and create a seal, keeping it in place.
How is a Menstrual Cup Different From a Sanitary Pad or Tampon? Is it Safe?
Tampons or pads are designed to absorb the fluid. However, a menstrual cup is different because it collects fluid instead of absorbing it. Therefore, it does not dry out the vaginal walls like a tampon or pad can.
To answer a very common question, “is it safe to use menstrual cup?” Yes. The materials used to make a cup are safe. That is why they usually do not cause an allergic reaction. They are non-reactive and gentle on the body. Bacterial infections are also sporadic. When they do happen, it is usually because the cup was not cleaned well. Just make sure to keep it clean and avoid wearing it for too long.
How to Use a Menstrual Cup?
These 10 steps will tell you how to use menstrual cup for beginners:
- Choose the right size. Menstrual cup brands offer a variety of sizes. Your size is typically determined by your age. It depends on whether or not you have given birth vaginally. The tone of your pelvic floor muscles also matters.
- Before you begin, be sure to wash your hands well. This will help prevent any potential contamination.
- It is important to relax your muscles before you attempt to insert the cup. Being tense can make insertion more difficult. Many beginners find that it takes some practice to learn the correct angle for their body.
- To insert it, you will need to fold the cup first. Some common folding methods include the C-fold, the punch-down method, and the 7-fold method. Try a few different folds to find the one that is most comfortable for you.
- When inserting, aim it backwards toward your tailbone rather than straight upward. The cup should open up below (not directly on) your cervix.
- Ensure the cup has fully opened and created a seal. To do that, gently rotate the cup or run your finger around the base. A proper seal is what prevents leaks.
- You can typically wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours. However, the exact wear time depends on your menstrual flow and the specific brand’s instructions.
- When you are ready to remove the cup, you first need to break the seal. Do this by gently pinching the base of the cup. Once the seal is broken, ease the cup out vertically to avoid any spills.
- Remove and empty the cup into the toilet. If you have access to a sink, you can rinse the cup with water. If you are in a public restroom, simply wipe it clean with toilet paper. Then try reinserting it.
- If you experience leaks, you may need to reposition the cup. Make sure it has opened fully. You could also try using a different fold. If you have a low cervix, you can trim the stem of the cup to a suitable length. However, never cut the base. If you have a high cervix, try bearing down to make removal easier. These instructions apply to all menstrual cups. If you are concerned about “how to use a Diva Cup,” then follow the same steps. The Diva Cup is one of the popular brands of menstrual cups. The basic usage remains the same across most brands.
For your first time trying a menstrual cup, use a small amount of water-based lubricant. However, it is best to avoid using oil-based lubricants. They can damage the silicone of the cup.
What is the Proper Menstrual Cup Aftercare?
After your period is over, it is important to give your menstrual cup proper care. First, wash it with mild, fragrance-free soap and clean water. Next, sterilise it in boiled water for a few minutes. Check the brand’s instructions for the exact amount of time. Let the cup dry completely before storing it. It should be kept in a breathable pouch, not an airtight container. Before your next cycle, check the air holes and rim for any residue or damage.
Can a Menstrual Cup Get Lost Inside You?
No, a menstrual cup cannot get lost inside you. Your cervix is a closed “doorway” to your uterus. Therefore, the cup cannot go past it. Even if it stays in for a long time, it remains in the vaginal canal. If the cup seems to be moving up high, simply relax your body. You can also use your pelvic muscles to push down. It will help you reach and remove the cup slowly.
What are the Advantages of Using Menstrual Cups?
Given below are some advantages of using menstrual cup:
- Eco friendly: Reusable menstrual cups reduce the waste caused by disposable menstrual products.
- Cost effective: One cup can last for years. This helps you save money in the long run.
- High capacity: Menstrual cups can hold more menstrual blood than tampons or pads. This makes them suitable for days with heavy menstrual flow.
- Odour control: Since blood is not exposed to air, there is a reduced chance of unpleasant odours.
- Comfortable during activities: These cups are suitable for swimming, exercise, and even overnight use.
- Low irritation risk: They are made from medical-grade materials. These menstrual products do not contain fragrances and do not absorb moisture like tampons.
- Useful for tracking flow: By using these menstrual cups, you can see how much you are bleeding. This helps you keep track of and monitor your reproductive health.
- Fewer emergency changes: This is a great option for travel or long days when bathroom access is limited.
What are the Disadvantages of Using Menstrual Cups?
These are some disadvantages of using menstrual cup:
- It can take some time to get used to inserting a menstrual cup correctly. Positioning and removing can also be tricky for some people. Many beginners find it difficult at first.
- You may have issues with the fit. Some people might struggle to get the cup to seal properly. This can lead to leaks. It happens if you have a high or low cervix, fibroids, or certain pelvic-floor conditions.
- Menstrual cups need to be cleaned and sanitised properly between each cycle. This includes boiling the cup and letting it air-dry. It may not always be convenient depending on your living situation.
- In areas with poor sanitation, properly cleaning the cup can be challenging.
- You should be cautious when removing the cup. This helps prevent accidentally pulling on the string of your intrauterine device (IUD). This can cause the IUD to shift out of place.
- Some menstrual cups are made with latex. So if you have a latex allergy, you may choose a latex-free alternative. For example, silicone.
The Bottom Line
Menstrual cups are a modern choice for period care that many people have not tried. Some may find it difficult to get used to them. However, many users quickly learn to appreciate their convenience. Like any product, menstrual cups have pros and cons. However, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks once you get the hang of using one. Since the cups can hold more fluid than pads or tampons, they are very helpful.