Menstrual cups: are they right for you?

[TeenHelp]

Menstrual cups: are they right for you?
By Sammi (Orenda.)

Although menstrual cups have been around since the 1930s [source], recent years have seen a spike in their popularity. While you can now find a variety of brands online and in your local drugstore, they are still a relatively unknown method of managing your period, typically only discovered by word of mouth or curiosity, rather than mainstream advertising. Because of that, it can be difficult to determine whether or not making the switch to the menstrual cup is the right choice for you. This article aims to educate readers about different aspects of the menstrual cup, as well as examining the pros and cons of it as a menstrual product.

Sustainability
Typically made of silicone, the cup is designed to be a reusable product. While the lifespan of it will vary from person to person, it can generally be used for at least one year before a replacement becomes necessary. Because disposable menstrual products are currently the norm in society, it's understandable that it may feel unsanitary to use the cup repeatedly for such a long period of time. However, cleaning it is relatively simple and can be done by boiling it (look at the website of your chosen brand for specific instructions on how to do this without damaging your cup), using water and a mild, unscented soap, or using a solution made specifically for menstrual cups (again, look at the cleaning instructions for your specific brand to make sure you don't damage the cup).

The fact that menstrual cups are reusable also make them a more budget friendly and environmentally conscious choice. While the initial cost of the cup is pricier than a pack of tampons or pads, ranging from $45-$60, the fact that it only needs to be paid for once a year, if that, means it will most likely save you money in the long run, even if you have to pay a little more up front. Additionally, using the same product over time, rather than disposing of a tampon or pad every few hours, lessens our environmental footprint by reducing the overall amount of waste produced monthly by menstrual products.

Insertion and removal
Inserting the menstrual cup can take some time to get used to, but once you get the hang of it, it's pretty simple to do. While there are many different approaches to get the cup in, the most common is bending it into a C shape, keeping your index finger in the fold. Gently push it up into the vagina using about the same amount of force you would use to insert a tampon, then slowly slide your finger out. Wetting the cup a bit beforehand for lubrication (do not use any lubrication products, as they may damage the silicone) and finding a comfortable position that allows you to relax your muscles will also help make the process feel a little bit smoother. You may want to run your index finger outside the outer edge of the cup following insertion to make sure that it has completely unfolded or try squatting to give it an extra chance to unfold. If it hasn't, if you're unsure, or if you just want to get a bit of extra practice, feel free to take it out and try it again. After all, practice makes perfect with just about everything.

Removing the cup is definitely an easy process from the start in comparison to inserting the cup. When your cup is inserted, you should still be able to reach the stem at the bottom fairly easily, especially from a seated position. Simply pinch that between two fingers and remove it the way you would a tampon. In some cases, you may find it easier to reach up a little farther and pinch the sides of the cup rather than the stem. The method you choose for removal is really a matter of personal preference and what is most comfortable for you. After removing the cup, carefully discard the contents into the toilet and be sure to rinse it out with warm water before re-inserting.

During your cycle
On average, menstrual cups are able to hold about 30 ml of fluid, meaning you don't need to empty them out often. At the beginning of your cycle when your flow is heavier, it's recommended to empty it more frequently, usually about 6-8 hours after insertion. On lighter days, the cup can be left in for up to 12 hours before it needs to be taken out. If you're nervous about overflowing, you can also wear a pad or panty liner during your first cycle using the cup to ensure that there is an extra barrier in case of leakage, allowing you to get a better understanding of how long your body can have the cup left in without having that added fear.

While the menstrual cup is a great choice, it may not be for everyone. Different people have different things that work best for them and it's understandable if you want to stick with what you're currently using because it works great for you. However, if switching to the menstrual cup is something you're considering, do a little more research about the product itself and the different brands and give it a shot. If it doesn't work out, you can always switch back to what you were previously using.