Menstrual cups are reusable products that holdperiod blood.
They are safe, effective, and affordable for most people who menstruate.
They have several advantages and may leak less than pads andtampons.
Photo composite by Tara Anand for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Menstrual cups are small, flexible cups made of silicone or rubber.
They are usually shaped like a bell or funnel and sit in thevaginato collect period blood and fluids.
Menstrual cups hold more blood than tampons and pads and can lead to less waste.
This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of menstrual cups and how to choose the right one for you.
The materials used to make a menstrual cup include medical-grade silicone, rubber, latex, and elastomer.
A menstrual cup can last up to 10 years.
The average person who menstruates has 65 active bleeding days each year.
The right menstrual hygiene products can improve your health and quality of life.
However, the learning curve can be quite steep.
They are held in place by suction that is created when you rotate the cup in your vagina.
Menstrual discs are thinner menstrual products that sit higher up in the vagina.
They are held in place by tension from the vaginal tissues.
Some menstrual discs hold more blood than menstrual cups.
Some menstrual discs are disposable, and others can be reused.
It is possible to experiencetoxic shock syndromefrom a menstrual cup, but it is very rare.
This inflammatory syndrome shows up when the vagina is exposed to certain bacteria and becomes swollen.
Good menstrual hygiene is essential for reproductive health.
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, so no soap is necessary.
To find your most comfortable fit, choose the right menstrual cup size.
Small cups are recommended for people younger than 30 who have not given birth vaginally.
Large cups are recommended for people over 30 who have given birth vaginally or who have heavy period flows.
You and your partner should not feel a menstrual disc during sex.
How Long to Wear a Menstrual Cup
Most people empty their menstrual cups once or twice daily.
The length of time depends on the heaviness of your flow.
Once you feel the base of the cup, pinch it to break the seal.
Gently slide the cup out and empty it into the toilet.
Rinse the cup with clean water, then insert it again.
Summary
Menstrual cups are hygiene products that sit inside the vagina to hold period blood.
Unlike pads and tampons that absorb blood, menstrual cups work by collecting blood.
These cups can also hold more blood than tampons or pads.
Menstrual cups are often made of medical-grade silicone or rubber and shaped like a funnel.
They stay in place with suction and usually leak less than pads or tampons.
They also result in less waste and a reduced risk of infection.
Do not use a menstrual cup if you are allergic to its ingredients.
Talk with your healthcare provider about menstrual product options.
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