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Whenever I tell most of my friends to switch to a menstrual cup instead of a “conventional” products for their menstruation, the response I usually get is – why?
Surprisingly, a lot of women still know little or nothing about menstrual cups. In recent years, smart women are already switching to a menstrual cup, , and you should do so as well.
If you are looking for a reason to make that critical switch, this article will teach you everything you need to know about a menstrual cup and why you must adopt it for your monthly visitor. Keep on reading to find out more.
What Is A Menstrual Cup?
If you are hearing the term “menstrual cup” for the first time, it is merely a small, flexible cup made of silicone or latex rubber, which you can use in place of your regular menstrual pad or tampons.
But unlike a tampon or pad, a menstrual cup is not designed to absorb your flow but to catch and collect it. Without a doubt, a menstrual cup is an eco-friendly alternative to tampons and pads. Unlike most people believed, a menstrual cup is not a new invention.
In fact, it has been around since the 1800s. The first version of the modern menses cup was patented in 1937 but received widespread acceptance in the 21st century. If you have never tried any menses cup before, you probably have a lot of questions, keep on reading to find answers to most of your questions.
How Does A Menstrual Cup Works?
Like I mentioned above, a period cup is designed to catch and collect your flow, unlike your tampon or pad, which absorbs it. You can easily purchase a menstrual cup from any pharmacy in your area or online. Inserting a menstrual cup into your vagina is very easy.
Despite what most people might think, this process is very comfortable, and you may not even know it is there when you get used to it. Learn to insert period cups in the following steps:
- Step 1: Remove the menses cup from the packaging, press the sides of the cup together, and then fold it in half again to form a very tight “U” shape. Next, place your finger on the top rim of the cup and press it down into the center of the inside base to form a triangle.
- Step 2: Using your free hand, gently separate your vagina labia and push the curved edge of the folded menstrual cup horizontally into the vaginal opening. Make sure that the tip of the stem is no further than 1.27 cm (Or 1/2 inch) into your vagina.
- Step 3: After inserting the cup, hold the base this time and turn the cup one full 360-rotation and then push it horizontally in the rest of the way. Once inside, your cup will spring open and rest against the walls of your vagina. Any blood that comes from your menstruation will drip into the cup.
Also Read: Ketogenic Diet: What to Eat and What to Avoid
Why Should You Switch To Menstrual Cup?
There are tons of reasons why switching to a menstrual cup may be a better option for you. Below are top reasons to switch to menstrual cup:
1.) Menstrual Cups Save Money
Do you know you can reuse your period cup? After each use, you can easily wash the cup and keep it for the next time you have a menstrual period. This means you will spend less money on buying tampons or pads and be able to save money.
2.) Menstrual Cups Are Safer
Unlike pads or tampons, menstrual cups collect blood instead of absorbing them. What this means is that you are not at the risk of getting Toxic Shock Syndrome, otherwise known as TSS, which is a rare bacterial infection that comes from the use of a tampon.
3.) Menstrual Cups Are Eco-friendly
If you care about the environment, then the menses cup will be an ideal solution for you. The cup is reusable, which means you contribute less waste to the environment.
4.) Menstrual Cup Means Less Odor
When your menstrual blood is exposed to air, it begins to smell. Of course, this happens only when you use tampons or pads.
Fortunately, you will not have to deal with this with a period cup. The cup forms an airtight seal. This means less contact with air to make it smell.
5.) Menstrual Cups Can Be Used For 12 Hours
A menstrual cup can provide you with protection 12-hours a day. This makes it perfect for overnight protection.
You can travel with just one cup without worrying about taking a backup. On the other hand, tampons need to be changed every 4 to 8 hours.
6.) Menstrual Cup Holds More
An excellent menstrual cup can hold 1 ounce of liquid, which is about twice the amount of a super-absorbent pad or tampon.
This ability means you will be more comfortable even on your heavy flow days.
7.) Menstrual Cup Allows You To Have Sex
Surprised? You can have sex even with a menstrual cup still inserted in your vagina.
Final Thoughts
Without a doubt, using a menstrual cup will make your life easier. Besides, you will be able to save money, stay comfortable and fresh during your period. Switching to the menstrual cup will, without a doubt, be a smart choice for every woman who cares about her body and the environment.
-Shameka Renee
Results may vary. Information and statements made are for general purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Her Own Health does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Her Own Health are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
