Let’s face it, none of us ladies like that time of the month, do we? It basically messes up our routine and plans when it comes at the wrong time; on our WEDDING day, when we have plans to go to the beach, or are planning to wear a light colored outfit on an amazing night out.
Tampons have given many women the chance to run wild and free during the days when aunty Flo passes by. But, to be frank, it doesn’t come without issues. TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), infections, pollution are serious results of using tampons.
That’s why Menstrual Cups come in handy!
What are Menstrual Cups?
Menstrual cups are small flexible cups made of medical grade silicone. The same silicone that children’s pacifiers and many other medical items are made of.
Instead of absorbing blood like tampons or pads, a menstrual cup collects blood.
How do they work?
In order to insert the cup, you should do a C or U fold, and tuck it in. When it’s in, it unfolds naturally, but you may need to twist it slightly with the stem to make sure it has completely unfolded. As soon as it completely unfolds, the small halls at the top of the cup create a suction and help it rest on your vaginal wall.
How frequently should it be taken out?
Depending on your flow and the size of your cup, menstrual cups should be taken out and emptied every 3-5 hours. If you don’t have much flow, you can leave it in for a maximum of 12 hours at a time.
How to empty it?
When the cup is full, all you have to do is go to the toilet, pinch the base to release the suction, take the cup out and empty it. Yes, it’s as simple as that! Now, all you have to do is wipe or rinse it, and put it back in!
Does it leak?
Leaking is not an issue with menstrual cups as long as you’ve inserted the cup correctly, and you’ve chosen the right size for you.
You might be thinking, well, pads and tampons have been around for a long time, why should we switch to cups, right? Here are some benefits of using menstrual cups instead of other methods:
- Tampons absorb 35$ of your vagina’s natural moisture causing severe pH imbalance. They also leave behind fibers that case TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), and when they’re not organically made, they leach bleach and other chemicals into your bloodstream.
- It’s better for the environment! A single cup can last your 10-20 years. Imagine how many pads and tampons you’ll use in those years! You’re basically keeping pads and tampons out of the landfills.
- Your wallet will thank you! Menstrual cups cost anywhere from 20-50 USD depending on the brand. A one-time investment will save you thousands in the long run, after all, they last for 10-20 years.
Tips for beginners:
For the first couple of times try using lube to help you slide it into the right place. You should not feel it if it’s where it’s supposed to be. It’ll be better to practice using it before your period starts. You don’t want to mess things up on those days, do you?
Buy menstrual cups in Lebanon by clicking here!
Let me know if you’ve ever using any other methods to stay clean during menstruation!