You have perhaps heard the reports surrounding menstrual cups recently, from TV shows to natural health blogs. Indeed, they are the greatest and latest in period protection. However, menstrual cups are not entirely new at all.
In fact, this recent trend in feminine hygiene has been around since the 1900s. And a lot of women are rediscovering this product as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to pads and tampons.
Menstrual cups are what they precisely sound like, small silicone cups that collect menstrual blood. Although it is a simple concept, they are still quite confusing despite the upturn they have had recently. For a little help, here are some factors to consider if you are intrigued about menstrual cups. So, read on!
They Are Sanitary
Menstrual cups are not very unpleasant, contrary to popular belief. If you are taking care of it appropriately, they are just as clean as any other menstrual products. Perhaps they might be more sanitary because they don’t clog up your pipes or sit in your trash.
If the gross factor keeps you on hold, then the rewards and advantages may make you reconsider. When using it, it is crucial to wash your hands before handling it. Take note that your fingers may go all over this cup during the insertion process since you must fold it up, so it fits inside you.
They Are Eco-friendly
Believe it or not, pads and tampons make a lot of trash. Thus, minimizing the amount you throw out can undoubtedly make a significant difference in the environment. You can do this by using menstrual cups.
These devices can last at least four years. Therefore, they generate less waste over time. Women using menstrual cups help cut back plastic waste. One menstrual cup produces about 0.4 percent of the plastic waste that pads build up. Additionally, using it can help conserve water as well because it hardly requires any water.
Cleaning Is Important
Even if a menstrual cup requires low maintenance for twelve hours at a time, you need to ensure you are cleaning it the right way when you take it out. As a rule of thumb, you must wash your menstrual cup with unscented, oil-free soap every twelve hours.
If you are in a public restroom, wipe it out with a tissue or rinse it off with drinkable water. Also, don’t forget to wash it when you get the chance. At the end of every cycle, give your menstrual cup an extra-thorough wash. Alternatively, you can boil it in a pot of water for about ten minutes.
Low-Cost
Think about how much money you have spent on pads or tampons over the last four years. Has it reached the amount you’ve never expected? Perhaps you can buy some other important things with that accumulated money, right?
Take a menstrual cup and tampons in comparison. A menstrual cup costs about thirty dollars. And it can last up to four years. Say, for instance, you spent ten dollars a month on your pad or tampon for four years, spending 480 dollars. When you use a menstrual cup, you can save 450 dollars in your pocket. Hello, brand-new bag or shoes.
The Risks Are Similar To Tampons
The worry and problem with all menstrual products that are insertable is toxic shock syndrome. The warning you see on your Tampax box also applies in menstrual cups. In fact, there’s been a case report of toxic shock syndrome associated with the use of a menstrual cup. Toxic shock syndrome is rare. However, ensure you are following the guidelines by cleaning and removing your menstrual cup at least every twelve hours.
Different Sizes
Most menstrual cup brands offer two sizes. One for women who have never been pregnant and for women under thirty. Needless to say, it is impossible for one size to be very large. Menstrual cups are not that big, perhaps at least four centimeters across. Also, they collapse.
Simple To Insert
Inserting a menstrual cup is relatively easy. You don’t have to be scared. However, it might be a challenge taking them out. You might need a little bit of learning curve to ensure you are not spilling. Although it may sound gross at first, you will get the hang of it after several tries.
Takeaway
Menstrual cups are an immediate and durable solution for women. It is good for the environment, saves money, and there is no waste. Also, women can enjoy swimming and running when using one, thus, making it an excellent solution.
However, it does come with challenges. Well, it can be scary to start using it for the first time. It needs behavioral change. Ultimately, they are safe and effective and can reduce water usage, waste, and save money.
