A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup that is inserted into the vagina to collect blood during menstruation. Unlike tampons and pads, which absorb or block the flow of blood, cups collect the blood in a small cup. The cups are made of silicone or latex and can be reused for several years.
The menstrual cup vs. pads and tampons
Today’s market offers a wide variety of period products for women. There’s no one right answer to the question of which menstrual product is best. It’s a personal decision that depends on your body, your flow, and your lifestyle.
Menstural cups
Menstrual cups are a newer option for women. There are many different types of menstrual cups on the market. No matter what type of menstrual cup you choose, it is important to make sure that it is made from medical-grade silicone and that it is the right size for your body.
- The most common type is the bell-shaped cup, which is inserted into the vagina and sits just below the cervix.
- There are also Funnel-shaped cups, which have a narrower opening at the top and are designed to fit snugly against the cervix. Some women prefer these cups because they believe they provide a better seal and are less likely to leak.
- There are also Disc-shaped cups, which are flatter and sit lower in the vagina. These cups may be more comfortable for some women, but they may not provide as good of a seal and may leak more often.
Menstural Pads
Pads are attached to your underwear and absorb blood as it flows from your body. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and absorbency.
There are many advantages and disadvantages to using menstrual pads. For some women, they are a necessity, while others find them to be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Here is a list of the pros and cons of menstrual pads to help you decide if they are right for you.
Pros:
1. They can be worn for up to 8 hours at a time.
2. They are easy to use and dispose of.
3. They absorb more blood than tampons, making them ideal for heavy flows.
4. They do not cause as much vaginal dryness as tampons can.
5. Some women find them more comfortable than tampons.
Cons:
1. They can be bulky and uncomfortable to wear.
2. They can leak if not changed often enough or if they become full before you change them.
Tampons
Tampons are small, cylindrical objects made of absorbent material that is inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. There are many advantages and disadvantages to using tampons.
Pros:
- They are easy to use
- Can be worn for long periods of time
- They are relatively discreet option than menstrual pads
Cons:
- The risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
- Discomfort
- Vaginal dryness
Some women prefer to use pads and tampons, while others prefer the menstrual cup. So, which is better?
There are some health risks associated with using pads and tampons. For example, toxic shock syndrome is a rare but potentially fatal condition that has been linked to tampon use. There is also some evidence that using pads or tampons may increase the risk of developing endometriosis, a condition in which the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus.
The pros of using menstrual cups
For women who are looking for an alternative to tampons and pads, menstrual cups offer a number of advantages.
The more convenient menstruation option
Menstrual cups create suction when inserted, meaning they sit snugly in place and don’t leak. This can provide a more comfortable experience than using tampons which can dry out the vagina or cause discomfort when they leak.
There are many health benefits to using menstrual cups as well. They don’t contain any of the chemicals that are found in tampons and pads, which can be absorb into the body. This means that there is less of a chance of getting an infection or other health problems.
Some cups are even designed to be worn during sex, so that couples can continue to enjoy intimacy without interruption.
More cost effective than you thought
Dealing with the monthly expense of pads and tampons can be a pain. Menstrual cups offer a more cost-effective solution that can save you money in the long run. The initial investment for a menstrual cup may be higher than buying a box of tampons, but over time, you’ll save money because you won’t have to keep buying new supplies every month.
The smart choice for a healthy environment
Tampons and pads contain plastic and other synthetic materials that can take centuries to decompose. Menstrual cups, on the other hand, are made of silicone which is a sustainable material.
The cons of using menstrual cups
Menstrual cups have a host of advantages over other menstrual products, but there are a few potential disadvantages to be aware of.
Some women struggle to use menstrual cup
One of the biggest complaints about menstrual cups is that they can be difficult to use. Unlike tampons which are inserted and then forgotten about until it’s time to change them, menstrual cups need to be regularly emptied throughout the day. Many women find that they leak more easily than other products, and they can be hard to clean.
The messy reality of menstrual cups
There are a few cons to menstrual cups, one being that they can be messy. If a woman is not careful when removing her cup, she can spill blood all over herself and her clothing.
Menstrual cups may be causing you discomfort
Another potential disadvantage of menstrual cups is that they can cause discomfort if not inserted correctly. This is usually due to the cup being placed too low in the vagina. Again, this is something that you will get the hang of with practice. However, if you experience persistent discomfort, it is worth speaking to your doctor or another healthcare professional. Some women also find that they are uncomfortable to use, and that they cause cramps.
How to use a menstrual cup?
What follows is a comprehensive guide to using a menstrual cup:
Insertion: Fold the menstrual cup in half so that it forms a “C” shape. Bring the cup up to your tailbone as you insert it into your vagina. The stem should be facing downwards. Turn the cup a few times to ensure that it has opened all the way once it has been set in position.
Use: When inserted correctly, you shouldn’t be able to feel the menstrual cup at all. The menstrual cup will collect your blood during the day.
Remove: To remove the menstrual cup, reach up into the vagina with clean hands and pinch the bottom of the cup to break the seal. Gently pull down on the stem until you can reach the base of the cup. Pinching the base, bring the cup down and out of your vagina.
How to clean a menstrual cup before and after use?
For the many ladies who prefer to use a menstrual cup, you know that they can be a more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective alternative to pads and tampons. But how do you clean a menstrual cup before and after use? Here are some tips:
Before use:
- Get some soap and water and scrub those hands well.
- Rinse your menstrual cup with warm water. If you like, you can also use a mild, fragrance-free soap.
- Insert the menstrual cup according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
After use:
- Remove the menstrual cup according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rinse the cup with warm water and empty the contents into the toilet. You can also use a mild, unscented soap if desired.
Final words
For many women, managing their period can be a hassle. From dealing with leaks to finding the right products, it can be difficult to find a method that works for you. Menstrual cups have become a popular option for many women, as they offer a number of benefits over other products. However, there are also some downsides to using menstrual cups. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use them is a personal one.