Introduction: What is a Menstrual Cup
The Menstrual Cup is a reusable, bell-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. It can be made of silicone, latex, or rubber and has been used for many centuries in many different cultures.
It can be used as an alternative to tampons or pads for light flow days. You can also use it for longer periods when you have heavy flow days. So, it’s a good option for couples who are trying to conceive because it helps with sperm-free sex.
What are the Controversial Safety Claims about Menstrual Cups?
The menstrual cup is one of the most popular menstrual hygiene products that women use. There are many brands of menstrual cups on the market, and each one has its own set of safety claims. However, there are a lot of controversy surrounding it and different safety claims about it.
The Menstrual Cup Safety Claim:
- They are safe for all vaginal pH levels because they are made from medical grade silicone or rubber which is non-toxic and hypoallergenic
- They do not contain any chemicals or plastics that can cause irritation, allergies, or toxic shock syndrome
- They are reusable and do not need to be disposed of after each use
- They can help protect against Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
- The cups can be worn up to 12 hours in a row before emptying
What are the most common menstrual cup Risks?
The risks of using these cups can be serious, especially for those with heavy periods. Some women may not be aware of the risks and complications that can arise from using a menstrual cup.
So, here are the most common risks associated with Menstrual Cups
- Menstrual cups may cause vaginal infections if they’re not cleaned properly or used with other forms of feminine hygiene products.
- Menstrual cups may leak if they’re not inserted correctly or if they’re left in for too long.
- Women who have difficulty inserting menstrual cups may find it difficult to remove them without causing damage to their vagina.
- There is an increased risk of toxic shock syndrome when tampons are used with menstrual cups as well as when tampons aren’t changed
How to Take Good Care of Your Menstrual Cup to Keep it Safe and Last Longer
There are some things that you should do to make sure that your menstrual cup lasts longer and is as safe as possible.
Some of the things you should do include:
- Clean it with mild soap or water before and after every use.
- Store it in a dry place and avoid storing it in the bathroom.
- Avoid using scented products near your menstrual cup because they may cause your cup to smell bad.
- Rinse out any residue from the menstrual cup after use with cool water before storing it away.
- Do not leave it in the toilet or sink for long periods because this can cause bacteria buildup that will cause odors and stains on your cup.
Benefits of Menstrual Cups
Some of the benefits of using a menstrual cup include:
- They’re reusable for up to 10 years
- It can help prevent UTIs
- It is easy to insert and remove
- You can wear it for up to 12 hours
- It Can be used by people with sensitive skin
- They help with cramps because the cup collects all the blood in one place where it is easily collected and disposed of.