Introduction:
Menstrual cups were first introduced in 1932, but their commercial use began in 1937. While these cups have been around for decades, their usage has been limited because of the various stigma and myths surrounding them. Menstrual cups are a device of menstrual hygiene that holds period blood. These cups can hold up to 2 ounces of blood and are reusable, making them environmentally and budget-friendly. However, not enough studies and research have been conducted to evaluate any health risks associated with their usage. In addition, menstrual cups are tricky and a little inconvenient to use. However, when the correct size of the cup is used and the accurate method of insertion and removal is followed, they are the most useful menstrual hygiene device.
What Are Menstrual Cups?
A menstrual cup is a hygiene device used during menstruation (periods) to collect the period blood. The device is shaped like a cup or a funnel; therefore, it is called a menstrual cup. The menstrual cup has been around for a long time, but its frequent usage has recently been brought into practice. The cup is the most potent method of menstrual hygiene to hold period blood (compared to sanitary pads and tampons). The menstrual cup is shaped like a funnel or elongated bell-shaped cup with a stem. The stem of the menstrual cup is used for insertion and removal of the device.
What Are Menstrual Cups Used For?
Menstrual cups are menstrual hygiene products; therefore, they collect menstrual fluid (blood and tissues) during a menstrual cycle, unlike sanitary pads and tampons, which absorb the blood instead.
What Are Menstrual Cups Made Of?
Menstrual cups can be made of the following:
-
Medical-grade silicon.
-
Rubber.
-
Latex.
-
Elastomer.
Various flexible materials are used to make menstrual cups because several people have allergies and intolerance toward certain materials. For example, if an individual is allergic to latex, they should use menstrual cups made of silicon.
How Does a Menstrual Cup Work?
The menstrual cup is used to collect menstrual fluids, and the menstrual fluid is a combination of blood and tissues from inside the uterus every month. The menstrual cup is inserted inside through the cup's stem, where it seals against the vaginal wall under the cervix and collects menstrual fluids. The cup collects the blood instead of absorbing it. Depending on the flow rate, the cup is removed, emptied, washed, and reinserted every 4 to 12 hours. After the end of each cycle, the cup should be thoroughly cleaned and carefully stored.
How Long Do Menstrual Cups Last?
-
Menstrual cups are reusable menstrual products, which means they can be reused every month. Compared to disposable menstrual products like sanitary pads and tampons, they last longer and are economically and environmentally sustainable.
-
During periods, the menstrual cups should be emptied and reinserted every four to six hours or twice daily (depending on the flow).
-
A reusable menstrual cup can last for six months to ten years (depending upon the material used to make them).
-
The menstrual cups last longer when cleaned and stored correctly after each cycle.
-
There are a few options for disposable menstrual cups. They are also available in the market that is supposed to be thrown away after removal.
How Is the Menstrual Cup Size Determined?
Menstrual cups usually come in small and large sizes. And before an individual starts using a menstrual cup, it is crucial to know their size. The following factors determine the size of the menstrual cup:
-
Age.
-
Length of the cervix.
-
Nature of the period flow (whether it is usually heavy or light).
-
Flexibility and firmness of the cup, along with the material used to make the cup.
-
The capacity of the cup (as mentioned by the company).
-
Pelvic floor muscle strength.
-
Whether or not they have given birth through the vagina (normal delivery).
It is best to consult and discuss with a gynecologist before deciding on the menstrual cup size.
How Is a Menstrual Cup Put Inside?
While menstrual cups are effective, their insertion and removal can be tricky and difficult, especially for first-time users. However, greasing the cup can make the procedure easier. Before putting it inside the vagina, lubricating the rim of the menstrual cup with water or a water-based lubricant can be helpful. Insertion is significantly simpler with a wet menstruation cup. Insertion of a menstrual cup can be a little simpler for people who frequently use tampons. The menstrual cup can be inserted in the following steps:
-
It is essential to wash hands and maintain cleanliness to avoid any infection.
-
Apply water or water-based lube to grease the rim of the cup.
-
Holding the menstruation cup with the rim facing up in one hand, fold it in half tightly.
-
The cup should be inserted into the vagina with the rim facing up, and the cup should rest a few inches below the cervix.
-
Once the cup is placed correctly inside the vagina, it should be rotated. The cup will then open and create a seal to prevent leakage.
-
When the cup is inserted correctly, it should not be felt or cause any discomfort.
How Is a Menstrual Cup Taken Out?
Depending on the period flow, the menstrual cup should be emptied and replaced every six to twelve hours. If the cup gets full before that, it should be emptied and replaced to avoid leakage. The menstrual cup can be removed in the following steps:
-
It is essential to wash hands and maintain cleanliness to avoid any infection.
-
The thumb and the index finger should be carefully placed inside the vagina, and the stem of the cup should be gently pulled to reach the base of the cup.
-
The base of the menstrual cup should be pinched to remove the seal, and the cup should be pulled downwards.
-
Once the cup is removed, it should be emptied into the toilet and rinsed.
-
Before reinsertion into your vagina, reusable menstruation cups should be washed and wiped.
How to Store a Menstrual Cup?
With the right maintenance, reusable menstruation cups are sustainable and can endure for six months to ten years. The menstrual cup should be kept in a ventilated container, such as the pouches that they come with. Avoid storing them in containers or bags made of plastic since they restrict airflow. Moreover, disposable menstrual cups should be thrown away after removal.
Are Menstrual Cups Safe?
Ever since the menstrual cups were introduced as a menstrual hygiene device, several stigma and myths surrounded their usage. A large number of people still consider menstrual cups not safe to use. However, it is not true. When used properly by following the safety guidelines, these cups are extremely useful and safe. They are not any riskier than tampons, according to the evidence. Toxic shock syndrome, a potentially fatal medical condition associated with the usage of tampons, has been rarely reported amongst menstrual cup users. Endometriosis and adenomyosis in a menstrual cup user were only documented in one case report. Moreover, the U.S Food and Drug Administration did not stop the menstrual cup from being marketed as there was insufficient evidence against them being safe.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup?
The benefits of using menstrual cups are:
-
Affordable and cost-effective.
-
Reusable and environment-friendly.
-
Safer as compared to tampons. Menstrual cups do not increase the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare bacterial infection connected to the usage of tampons, because the device collects and does not absorb the menstrual blood.
-
Collects more blood as compared to tampons and sanitary pads. A menstrual cup can hold approximately 1 to 2 ounces of blood.
-
Menstrual cups can be worn along with intrauterine devices.
-
An individual can involve in sexual activities while wearing the cup. Soft and reusable menstrual cups can stay inside without causing any discomfort to either of the partners or leaking during sex.
What Are the Disadvantages of Using a Menstrual Cup?
The disadvantages of using menstrual cups are:
-
Insertion of the cup is technique-sensitive and may require some practice. Finding the right fold to insert the cup can be tricky.
-
Removal of the cup can be messy. There can be spills while removing the cup.
-
The right size and fit of the cup can be tough to find. Moreover, pinching the cup to pull it down can also be messy and difficult.
-
If the menstrual cup is not cleaned and stored properly, it may cause vaginal irritation.
-
In rare cases, it may cause allergic reactions. Although most of the cups are made of medical-grade silicone or latex-free material, there are still chances for a few people to develop allergic reactions.
Conclusion:
Although menstrual cups are cost-effective, environment-friendly, and more potent menstrual hygiene products, their usage is still limited because they are inconvenient to use. The insertion and removal of the cups can be difficult and tricky. It requires patience and practice. However, once the method of insertion and removal is mastered, the cups are extremely user-friendly and useful. These cups hold more blood than pads or tampons, and they also reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (life-threatening complications occurring due to bacterial complications). But before using menstrual cups, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist to determine the correct size, fit, and method of usage.
