Overview
Here is a real demonstration on how to use a menstrual cup. Menstrual cups are great for those looking for an environmentally-friendly alternative to tampons and pads.
A lot of people are afraid of using a menstrual cup because they assume it’s hard to use. But, these cups are just as easy to use as tampons and sanitary napkins.
Removing the cup at night and rinsing it under cold running water is all that’s required to use this kind of protective device.
Menstrual cups are usually reusable and last around 5-10 years since the plastic is very strong. But you can just purchase one for one-time use and then throw it out. But because it is made out of soft rubber, instead of hard plastic, there is no risk of cutting yourself when removing it. Some women prefer to use just one menstrual cup for their entire period in order to be more environmentally friendly than using disposables all month long.
Menstrual cups come in different sizes and shapes, and some come with extra features like comfort rings. Cup cramps are usually a problem for women who have large menstrual cups because the rim around the cup provides too much resistance to the vaginal muscles during insertion. Some women opt for smaller menstrual cups with or without a comfort ring.
What Is A Menstrual Cup?
A Menstrual cup or ‘menstrual cage’ is a silicone funnel-shaped cup that is inserted into the vagina during the menstrual period to collect Menstrual discharge instead of absorbing it. It is reusable and has more blood holding capacity than any other menstrual hygiene product, it can be left in for 6-12 hours.
You can wear it for up to 12 hours at a time with some brands, or all day with others, before emptying. It’s also better for the environment because it means you won’t have to throw away as many tampons or pads over your lifetime.
A common misconception about a menstrual cup is that it is not suitable for women who have not had a vaginal birth. This is not true! A menstrual cup can be used by women of all shapes and sizes, regardless of whether or not they’ve been pregnant vaginally or if they’ve had a Caesarean or other uterine surgery before.
There are different types of menstrual
The Keeper.
The Diva Cup.
The MoonCup.
The Lunette Cup.
The Benefits of Using A Menstrual cup.
- It has more blood holding capacity than any other menstrual hygiene products.
- It is affordable and cost saving.
- It offers up to 12 hours protection.
- It can be used with an IUD (intrauterine Device).
- Some women have also found that they bleed much less when they use a menstrual cup as opposed to disposable products. This is probably because it creates a bit of pressure on the cervix which helps slow down or stop period flow.
- It can be extremely beneficial to the environment.
- When using a menstrual cup you have a low risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome.
What To Consider When Choosing A Menstrual Cup.
- The strength of your pelvic floor Muscles.
- The length of your pelvis.
- Your Age.
- The amount of your menstrual flow.
- Cup capacity.
- If you’ve had vagina birth.
- Material composition of the cup.
How to Insert a Menstrual Cup.
Step 1
Wash your hands properly to avoid contamination.
Step 2
Grease the rim of the cup with either water or water-based lubricant.
Step 3
With the rim upward, fold the cup in half.
Step 4
Insert the rim facing up into the vagina and stop a few inches below the cervix.
Step 5
Open the cup by rotating, when it opens it will seal the path tightly to avoid leaks.
Step 6
Wash your hands you are done.
How To Remove A Menstrual Cup.
Step 1
Wash your hands properly.
Step 2
Put your index finger and thumb into your Vagina.
Step 3
Find the stem and pull gently.
Step 4
Stop at the base of the cup and pinch, the seal will be released.
Step 5
Remove the cup with a gradual pull.
Step 6
Dispose of the content of the cup into the sink or toilet.
Step 7
Wash your hands properly.
How To Care For A Menstrual Cup.
- Empty Menstrual cup at least twice daily.
- Wash and wipe reusable cup before insertion.
- Wash and wipe Menstrual cup after removal.
How to Care for a Menstrual Cup.
- Empty Menstrual cup at least twice daily.
- Wash and wipe reusable cup before insertion.
- Wash and wipe Menstrual cup after removal.
- Don’t use detergents or soaps to clean it. This will remove any of the chemicals used in the manufacturing process which are there to keep it safe for your body.
- Don’t boil or microwave it to clean it. This is a really bad idea! Take a look at this infographic from Lunette about why you shouldn’t do that.
- Make sure you completely dry your cup before putting it back in its storage case and stowing it away until next time!