Here is a guide on how to use a menstrual cup, along with some positive and negative aspects of using one, and information on the materials used to make them:
How to Use a Menstrual Cup:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Apply water or a water-based lube to the rim of the cup.
- Tightly fold the menstrual cup in half, holding it in one hand with the rim facing up.
- Insert the cup, rim up, into your vagina like you would a tampon without an applicator. It should sit a few inches below your cervix.
- Once the cup is in your vagina, rotate it. It will spring open to create an airtight seal that stops leaks.
- To remove the cup, gently pull on the stem until you can reach the base of the cup. Pinch the base to release the seal and pull the cup out.
Positive Aspects of Using a Menstrual Cup:
- Can hold more blood than other methods, leading many women to use them as an eco-friendly alternative to tampons.
- Can be worn for up to 12 hours.
- Cant be felt during sex (some brands).
- Can be worn with an IUD.
- Generate less trash and require fewer purchases, making them an environmentally friendly option.
Negative Aspects of Using a Menstrual Cup:
- When you use a menstrual cup for the first time, it may feel uncomfortable.
- If the cup leaks or is difficult to remove, these are signs the cup doesn’t fit well.
- Menstrual cups generate less trash and require fewer purchases, making them an environmentally friendly option.
- Some people may experience irritation or infections if they dont clean their cup thoroughly or use perfumed soaps with unknown ingredients.
Materials Used to Make Menstrual Cups:
- Most menstrual cups are made from silicone, but some are made from rubber or thermoplastics.
- 100% medical grade silicone is the only suitable material for menstrual cups. Thermoplastics can contain toxic chemicals like BPA and phthalates that are known to leach, so plastics should never be inserted into the vagina.
- If you’re allergic to latex, the material could cause irritation. You should always read the product label before use to learn more about the materials in any menstrual product.
Its important to note that menstrual cups are usually safe as long as you insert them with clean hands, remove them carefully, and clean them appropriately. If you have any concerns or questions, it may be helpful to talk with a healthcare professional before use.
