Menstrual Cup: How to Use it to Handle Periods

Do you own a RUMP or maybe a few? Have you ever heard of it? Today you will learn about one specific RUMP, a.k.a Reusable Menstrual products – the cup: How to Use it to Handle Periods. Additionally, you will learn about the research and where to get yours if you don’t have one.

I switched to a reusable cup eight years ago; it was my best decision ever. I’ve always experienced heavy flow, so I constantly woke up at night for fresh pads before the cup. Since using the cup, I can have a good night’s sleep and empty it in the morning.

The cup is a bell-shaped device made of medical-grade silicone or latex rubber used to collect menstrual fluid. It is inserted into the vagina and forms a seal to prevent leaks. Menstrual cups have been around for over 80 years but have gained popularity recently as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposable pads and tampons.

The first menstrual cup was invented in the 1930s by an American actress named Leona Chalmers. However, it was not until the 1980s that menstrual cups started to gain wider acceptance and use.

Benefits of A Reusable Cup:

1. It is eco-friendly as it can be reused for up to 10 years, reducing waste generated by disposable products.
2. Cost-effective – you spend more now to save money and the plant in the long run.
3. They can be worn for up to 12 hours without needing to be changed, which means less hassle and worry about leakage and odor.
4. Reduced risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition associated with tampon use.

The average longevity of your cup depends on several factors, including the quality of the cup, how well it is cared for, and how frequently it is used. Most manufacturers suggest replacing the cup every 1-2 years, but some cups can last up to 10 years with proper care. However, following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and caring for the cup is essential, and replacing it if it becomes damaged, discolored, or smells. It’s also a good idea to replace the cup if you notice any discomfort or irritation, as this may be a sign that the cup is no longer working effectively.

Studies have been done on the Menstual Cup!

Yes, there have been several studies conducted on Reusable menstrual products. These studies have examined various aspects of menstrual cup use, including safety, effectiveness, and user satisfaction.

Some studies have found that menstrual cups are a safe and effective alternative to disposable menstrual products, with a lower risk of leakage and a lower incidence of menstrual-related complaints such as odor and irritation. Other studies have found that reusable cups can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than disposable products.

Additionally, research has examined the potential for menstrual cups to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition associated with tampon use. Several studies have suggested that menstrual cups are associated with a lower TSS risk than tampons.

The available research suggests that reusable cups are a safe, effective, and convenient option for menstrual management and may offer several advantages over traditional disposable products. However, more research is needed to fully understand menstrual cups’ potential benefits and limitations, particularly in terms of long-term use and user satisfaction.

Using the Menstrual Cup

Using a cup can be intimidating initially, but it is relatively simple once you get the hang of it. Here are some general steps on how to use a menstrual cup:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Fold the cup. There are different ways to fold a cup, such as the C-fold, the punch-down fold, or the 7-fold. Choose the fold that feels most comfortable and easiest for you.
3. Hold the folded cup with your fingers and insert it into your vagina. You can use water or a water-based lubricant to help with insertion.
4. Once the cup is inside your vagina, it will open up and create a seal. Use your fingers to check that the cup has fully opened and is secure in place.
5. Depending on your flow, you can wear the cup for up to 12 hours. It is recommended to empty the cup every 4 to 8 hours, depending on your flow.
6. To remove the cup, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Gently pull the stem of the cup until you can reach the base of the cup. Pinch the base to release the suction and remove the cup.
7. Empty the cup into the toilet or sink, wash the cup with soap and water, and then reinsert it.

Nevertheless, getting the hang of using a cup may take a few tries. Still, with some practice, most people find it a comfortable and convenient alternative to disposable menstrual products.

Reusable cups are safe, eco-friendly, and cost-effective for managing menstrual flow. Get your cup today from brands that are all about women’s health. Brands such as Rael, Saalt and TheHoneyPot

Wants to learn more on Women’s health. Check out our post on Endometriosis, read it here.

It’s aways great hanging out with you all,

Until next time

Nisee

❀𖤣𖥧𖡼⊱✿⊰𖡼𖥧𖤣❀

References

1. Beksinska M et al. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Public Health. 2019 Oct;4(10):e475-e487. doi: 10.1016/S2468-2667(19)30111-2. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30111-2/fulltext
2. Karapanagioti A et al. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability: a review of the literature. Int J Womens Health. 2020 Mar 16;12:273-286. doi: 10.2147/IJWH.S244020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7073471/