The menstrual cup is a reusable or disposable feminine hygiene product. It has a small, flexible cup in the shape of a funnel made of silicone or rubber inserted into the vagina to catch and collect period fluid. The menstrual cup holds more blood than other methods made women use it, an environmental-friendly alternative to tampons. You can wear the menstrual cup for 12 hours, yet it depends on the flow.
Available brands of reusable cups may include the moxie menstrual cup. There are also a few disposable menstrual cups available if you want to use a new cup every 12 hours.
How to use the menstrual cup?
Using a menstrual cup might be strange if this is your first time using it. Since tampons are the most common product used during menstruation, most women don’t have an idea of how to use them. If your gynecologist suggests that you can use a menstrual cup, then you have to look for a good and reliable brand online. Upon buying a reusable menstrual cup, you must find the size you need. Most of these menstrual cup brands are small and have large versions.
To determine the right menstrual cup size that fits you, the following are considered:
- Age
- Length of cervix
- Whether heavy flow or not
- Flexibility and firmness of the cup
- Strength of the pelvic floor muscles
- Cup capacity
- If given birth vaginally
Women under 30 years old are recommended to use smaller menstrual cups. Larger sizes are recommended for women over 30 years old who have given birth vaginally or have heavier periods.
Is it safe to use?
There are tips to know if you are buying a reusable menstrual cup to ensure safety:
- Made from medical-grade silicone
- Plastic-free
- Carry pod made with medical-grade silicone lid – plastic base
If you can see and read this on the label, you can be sure that you are using the good stuff.
Important things to know before putting the menstrual cup
When using a menstrual cup, it may feel uncomfortable for first-timers. But, greasing the cup helps make the process smooth. Before putting it in the cup, you must lubricate the rim with water-based lube or water. Wet menstrual cups make it easier to insert.
Is it painful?
No, it is painless, aside from the discomfort you feel once inserted. But, the discomfort is just temporary. If you are used to using this menstrual cup, it feels like nothing changed the next time you use it. Many are worried if there side effects of using this type of cup.
The answer is harmless and painless. The menstrual cup is also one of the most useful feminine hygiene you should include on your list of purchases for the next shopping.