Introduction:
Menstruation is still considered unclean in specific societies. Therefore, it is essential to educate the population that it is a part of every woman's healthy life. Moreover, it is critical to maintain proper hygiene during menstruation, without which a woman may be vulnerable to reproductive tract infections. In addition, several products like pads and tampons may prevent staining of clothes and help in having safe periods. This article gives you an insight into newer alternatives the menstrual cups, their importance, disadvantages, and how to use them.
What Is a Menstrual Cup?
Women always wonder about a new alternative to pads, as they are uncomfortable, need to be changed frequently and to be disposed of properly. Currently, the popularly used menstrual cups have dragged many women’s attention. A menstrual cup is a small, reusable, funnel-shaped cup inserted into the women’s vagina to collect the menstrual fluid. The menstrual cups were designed initially in the 1800s. However, the first commercial product was developed by Leona Chalmers in 1937. It was named “Tassette,” but women at that period hesitated to use cups instead of pads and tampons. Now, the scenario has changed, and many have started to use menstrual cups.
How Does a Menstrual Cup Work?
The primary mechanism of a menstrual cup is to collect the menstrual flow. In contrast, the pads and tampons are designed to absorb the flow. The menstrual cups are made of either silicone or rubber. It stays in your vagina for about six to 12 hours by suction.
What Is the Importance of the Menstrual Cup?
Till now, many women are afraid to use menstrual cups, as they were told to use pads by their mothers. However, menstrual cups have the following advantages:
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Easy to Use - Women must learn to use their menstrual cups properly. Once used, it becomes easy for the next time. However, you will have to squeeze the cup and insert it slowly into the vagina, and you may not feel its presence if appropriately placed.
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No Odor - The pads and tampons absorb the vaginal fluid and thus interfere with the bacterial balance and pH of the vagina. In the case of menstrual cups, the vaginal pH and bacterial balance are maintained. The main advantage of a menstrual cup is that it prevents odor, as the vaginal blood is not exposed to air.
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Hold Longer - The regular sanitary napkins and tampons may stay for up to six hours, and you need to change them frequently. Changing pads is a big job in women with higher menstrual flow, as the staining may bring out embarrassment. With a menstrual cup, you may have a carefree period, where the cups may hold the menstrual flow for 12 hours.
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Leaks - The chances of leaking are less with menstrual cups than with pads and tampons.
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Less Vaginal Dryness - Vaginal dryness may cause itchiness, pain, and discomfort. Improper hygiene practices while using sanitary napkins may cause vaginal dryness. However, studies show that there is a decrease in vaginal dryness with the use of menstrual cups.
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Eco-Friendly - Menstrual cups are a one-time investment, and the cost is a bit high. However, these cups have been reusable for many years. In contrast, the pads and tampons you buy for the whole year cost you more. Therefore the disposal of sanitary pads harms the land, while the menstrual cups used for a long time do not cause severe harm to the environment.
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More Safer - Several reports suggest that the risk of toxic shock syndrome is high in women using tampons. Toxic shock syndrome is a rare bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus) complication that may cause sudden fever, rash, seizures, etc. However, the risk of toxic shock syndrome is less with menstrual cups.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Menstrual Cup?
Each product has its pros and cons. Likewise, a few disadvantages of the menstrual cup are as follows:
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Problems with fitting the cup - Some women may have different vaginal anatomy, making proper fitting difficult. It is essential to visit your gynecologist to get the best advice.
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Need for regular sterilization.
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Some may feel embarrassed to clean it. Initially, women may find it hard to sterilize the cup; over time, they get used to it. But it is difficult to wash the cups in public places or while traveling.
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For a few others, it may be hard to remove.
How to Use a Menstrual Cup?
Women may have doubts about how to insert it and take it out. However, most products are clearly labeled with how to use a menstrual cup. Read below to know how to use it.
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The first step is to wash your hands thoroughly.
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Before inserting the cup, make yourself comfortable. For example, sit with your knees apart or you can squat.
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Narrow the menstrual cup by either squeezing or folding it. This will help you in sliding the cup into your vagina.
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Few cups need to be inserted high in your vagina, and you may feel uncomfortable if it is wrongly placed. In such a case, pull the cup out and replace it.
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Once you place the cup inside your vagina, slightly rotate it to achieve an airtight seal.
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The adequately placed menstrual cup allows you to walk, jump, sit and stand without the cup falling out.
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The menstrual cup can hold for eight to 12 hours, which means you can use it overnight.
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To remove it, you can place your finger around the rim of the menstrual cup and slightly squeeze it while pulling it out.
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After you take it out, empty the menstrual cup in the toilet.
What Is the After-Care Routine for a Menstrual Cup?
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Make sure you clean the menstrual cup before the subsequent use.
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Avoid using cleaning products that irritate your vagina with a menstrual cup. Products like antibacterial soap, bleach, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, etc., can be avoided.
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Wash your menstrual cup with mild cleansing soap and water.
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Place the cup in boiling water for not more than 10 minutes.
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Damp the menstrual cup with dry wipes or a cloth towel and ensure it is clean before the subsequent use.
Conclusion:
The newly evolving products indicate growth in healthcare and technological aspects. However, for some, it may bring fear to use it immediately. Especially health and hygiene during menstruation are of high importance. In that way, menstrual cups are said to be safe and give you a carefree experience during your periods. To conclude, try one to know how it works.
