If you haven’t used a menstrual cup before, let us just tell you now that you’re missing out. 😉
Menstrual cups have become a really popular choice for managing periods. As an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional pads and tampons, there are so many reasons to consider making the switch.
But aren’t they hard to use, and how do you know if they’re right for you?
In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of using period cups to help you determine if they're the right choice for you. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision, and give you the confidence to give it a try.
What Are Menstrual Cups?
A menstrual cup is a really great alternative to using a tampon.
They are made from soft medical grade silicone and are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. If you want to find out more check out our 'what's a menstrual cup' blog here
Once inserted correctly you won't feel the cup at all, not to mention the silicone is non drying, unlike tampons, and can be worn at any stage of your flow. We’ve all been there with a tampon on a light flow day, and it is never fun.
We offer menstrual cups in two different sizes depending on your body shape and flow. The soft silicone moulds to form a seal around the inside of the vagina and flexes during movement, making cups a really great option for during workouts or dancing, loads more comfortable than a tampon, trust us. The cup doesn’t put any pressure on your cervix as a tampon can, and many people find that using a cup actually helps alleviate menstrual cramps.
Take our size quiz to know what size will be the best option for you.
✅ What are the benefits?
Environmental
Switching to using a menstrual cup has a huge range of benefits. Starting with the obvious, there’s no plastic waste. In the UK around 4.3 billion disposable menstrual products are used every year. The majority of these are comprised of plastic which ends up in landfills and in our oceans.
No fuss
A menstrual cup can be worn for up to 8 hours, meaning less trips to the bathroom for you and all in all, less stress! The cup can collect the same amount as three tampons and can be worn at any stage of your flow.
Cost
A menstrual cup has an indefinite lifespan, and if well cared for can last you for a decade! While there will be an upfront cost when you buy your cup, all in all there will be a huge cost saving when you add this up over the years - just think, you would never have to buy a box of tampons ever again.
Comfort
Many people find that wearing a menstrual cup helps alleviate menstrual cramps. The cup helps to encourage blood flow and eases strain on sore pelvic muscles. The soft silicone is flexible and easily forms to fit your body shape, once inserted you won’t feel the cup at all. The silicone won’t leave you feeling dry and irritated, and with no messy pads to deal with you’ll forget that you’re even on your period at all!
❌ Are there any drawbacks?
Ok so you’re sold on the benefits, but are there any other things to consider if you’re thinking of making the switch? 🤔
Learning curve
When you first decide to try out a menstrual cup there will be a natural learning curve while you get the hang of it. It might take you longer to fully get to grips with than using a tampon for example. You’ll need to decide which size will suit you best, figure out the easiest way to insert and remove your cup, and get confident and comfortable with the process.
At the start it can take some time to get used to, so make sure you have some time spare when you’re first getting used to inserting and removing the cup.
Maintenance
Your menstrual cup has an indefinite lifespan, but with this it does need looking after. You will need to thoroughly sterilise your cup before and after each period to make sure that it is safe to use.
During your period you’ll need to empty and rinse the cup every 8 hours, you’ll need to make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before removing it. You might also want to cleanse it with a pH balanced soap which is safe for your intimate area, don’t use normal soap to wash your cup.
It should be stored in a breathable cotton bag, never an airtight container, when you aren’t using it.
Mess
It goes without saying that when you remove your menstrual cup, it will have collected blood. When you take the cup out you’ll need to tip the blood into the toilet and rinse your cup out. This can be messier than using a tampon or a pad. However, once inserted, there’s no mess at all. You might even forget that you’re on your period at all!
So are menstrual cups right for you?
Overall it is fair to say that menstrual cups offer a huge range of benefits, from being environmentally friendly to the added convenience and comfort. If it’s something you’re considering trying we would urge you to give it a go, the menstrual cup might just become your new best friend!
Make sure you feel comfortable and have lots of time the first time you try to insert the cup, we would recommend being at home in your own bathroom while you build up your confidence. You can try sitting on the loo with your knees open (just be careful not to drop it in!) or standing with one leg raised, resting your foot on the side of the bath.
Just remember, there will be a learning curve,It might take you some practice to get used to, which is totally normal. You’ve got this!