The menstrual cup seems to be catching up lately. This is because more and more women are discovering the benefits of this handy cup. In the article below we explain what a menstrual cup exactly is. We also give a number of tips about what you should pay attention to when purchasing a menstrual cup.
Menstrual cup:what is it? The menstrual cup is a small cup in the shape of an egg cup or wine glass. You wear the menstrual cup internally during your period. Unlike tampons, a menstrual cup does not absorb your blood, but only collects it. A cup can collect on average 3 to 5 times more blood than a tampon.
Most menstrual cups are made of 100% medical grade silicone. This is a body-friendly material that leaves your vaginal flora intact. Because cups do not absorb anything, they prevent the dryness and irritation that tampons often cause. In addition, menstrual cups are very flexible, so you don't feel them.
How do you use a menstrual cup?
In order to insert a menstrual cup properly, you must first fold it. There are several ways you can do this. Many women use the C-fold, where you fold the cup in half so that the edge of the cup makes the letter C when viewed from above.
When the cup is inserted, it pops open and creates a vacuum. This keeps it in place and prevents you from leaking. You can therefore simply exercise, swim, visit the sauna or sleep with your cup in.
You can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours. Then you simply empty it into the toilet. You can clean your cup with water during your period. Boil it out once a month to kill unwanted bacteria. One cup lasts up to 10 years and is therefore super durable.
Benefits of the menstrual cup
What are the exact benefits of the menstrual cup? We list them for you:
* Up to 12 hours of protection. A menstrual cup absorbs 3 to 5 times more than a tampon and you therefore need to change much less often.
* Cheap. With a menstrual cup you save yourself the purchase of about 4,000 tampons. Converted this comes down to about €425.
* Comfortable. You don't feel a menstrual cup fit and you can do everything you normally do with it.
* Durable. You can use a menstrual cup for up to 10 years.
* Body-friendly. Unlike sanitary towels and tampons, a menstrual cup does not contain chemicals or other harmful substances, such as pesticide residues, bleaching agents, dioxins and perfumes. Medical grade silicone is 100% body friendly.
* No drying or irritation. A cup does not absorb vaginal moisture and therefore prevents a dry or irritated vagina.
* Hygienic. Because the cup creates a vacuum, your blood does not come into contact with oxygen. This prevents the formation of bacteria (and associated unpleasant odors). The risk of tampon disease (Toxic Shock Syndrome, TSS) is also nil when used correctly.
Buy a menstrual cup?
Would you like to buy a menstrual cup? Keep in mind that different cups are available. Therefore, pay attention to the following:
Size
Which size is most suitable for you often depends on your build and the intensity of your period. Tip:choose a brand that delivers 2 sizes for the price of 1.
Hardness
Menstrual cups have different firmnesses. Most women prefer to wear a soft cup. A hard cup will feel in place faster and may feel less comfortable during insertion and removal.
Stalk
There are menstrual cups available with open and closed stems. From a hygienic point of view, a closed stem is the best choice, because no residue can remain in it. In addition, choose a cup with a stem that is (possibly) easy to cut off, in case you feel it. Avoid balls or handles.
Color
There are menstrual cups in all colors of the rainbow. If you prefer to choose a cup that is as natural as possible without added dyes, go for a transparent cup.
Practicups menstrual cups are a very good choice, because they meet the above requirements. The big advantage is that you receive both sizes at the same time. Two sizes of cups therefore cost only €27.25.
