From soft cotton pads that claim to be as light as a feather to sanitary napkins which provide overnight protection, there is a dizzying array of options when it comes to menstruation products. With the advent of information and education about the menstruation cycle, there is also an increase in the variety of menstrual hygiene products. One of the options includes a bell-shaped container known as a menstrual cup.
What is a menstrual cup?
Just like a tampon, a menstrual cup is inserted into the vagina but instead of absorbing, it collects the blood. It is made up of soft, flexible material like silicone, latex or rubber and is emptied every 4 to 12 hours.
The study
A research published in the medical journal, ‘The Lancet Public Health’ reinstates the fact that menstrual cups are reusable, inexpensive and safe to use. The report found that not only menstrual cups are as effective as tampons and pads in preventing blood leaks, but they also did not show any increased risk of infection.
To conduct the study, the authors looked at 43 studies involving 3,300 women and girls living in rich and poor countries. The majority of these studies asked the women about how they felt about using menstrual cups and also compared the experience of women using tampons and menstrual cups.
Should you switch to a menstrual cup?
The best part, however, remains the fact that they are reusable (they can last up to 10 years), cost-effective and environment-friendly. The cups also generate a fraction of the plastic waste produced by pads and tampons.
For the uninitiated, sanitary napkin do not degrade easily and are extremely toxic for the environment. Additionally, the plastic layering of these napkins provides a breeding ground to a host of bacteria, especially if they are not changed frequently. This can lead to all types of bacterial and fungal infections.
How to use a menstrual cup?
Inserting a menstrual cup can be a little tricky at first. Here is a step-by-step guide for the same:
1. First things first, find a cup size which is ideal for your body. Make sure to clean the cup by boiling it in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes
2. Fold the bell-shaped cup so that it is easier to insert it into the vaginal opening
3. After you have put it in, rotate the cup so that it unfolds and forms a leak-free seal
4. You can empty the cup depending on your flow, every 4 to 12 hours
5. To take out the cup, squeeze it from the bottom and carefully pull it down
6. Pour the blood and wash the cup with clean water
7. Make sure to wash the cup thoroughly and sterilize it between cycles