Let’s Talk Period Care: The 411 On Menstrual Cups

Disclaimer: While periods are a natural part of life, it's important to acknowledge that they can be a source of stress for many individuals. This blog aims to provide information and empathy without minimizing personal experiences.

The Rise of Menstrual Cups 

Chances are, you may have noticed an ever increasing growth in popularity surrounding the menstrual cup. From store shelves to social media, the buzz around menstrual cups is hard to miss, and I’m here to share what makes this product so significant. 

What exactly is a menstrual cup and how is it used?

A menstrual cup is a bell-shaped reusable, soft, medical-grade silicone alternative to disposable period products. The cup is inserted into the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual flow, rather than absorb like a tampon. To insert the menstrual cup, it is folded and gently inserted into the vagina towards the tailbone.

To insert the menstrual cup, it is folded and gently inserted into the vagina towards the tailbone.

*Pro tip 1* Applying lube to the rim of the cup makes insertion smoother AND helps the cup to fully open. 

Once inside, it opens to form a seal within the vaginal canal, below the cervix. You can gently wiggle and rotate the cup to ensure that all sides have opened. Once inserted, run your finger around the rim of the cup. If you can feel a fold and can't get it to "pop" open, you likely have a size too big and I would recommend sizing down. On the contrary, If you are still experiencing leaks, you could have a size too small that is not able to create a good seal. Try the next size cup; most cups come in small or large. Due to the soft silicone, the cup is able to mold to your specific anatomies’ internal shape, resulting in a comfortable leak-free fit. To remove the cup, the base is lightly pinched with the thumb and index finger which breaks the seal. After gently wiggling the cup side to side to remove, the cup exits the vaginal canal and is emptied into the toilet, rinsed (no need to use soap here!), and once again ready for reinsertion. There are various products on the market that allow you to sterilize your cup between cycles.

*Pro Tip 2* Use extra protection, like a pad or period underwear, until you are more comfortable using a cup, to give you more peace of mind. You may have some beginner leaks at first, and you don't want to ruin a day or your panties. Obviously, once you have figured it out, there is no need for the extra protection.

How do I pick the right cup for me? Currently, there are many brands of menstrual cups available, and picking the right cup is a personal choice based on the styles and sizes available. There are a few factors to consider when choosing a cup: size, length, and pelvic floor health. 

• Size: Menstrual cups generally come in two sizes– small and large. Smaller menstrual cups are typically recommended for women who are younger than 30 or haven't given birth vaginally. Larger cups are generally suitable for women who are older than 30, have delivered vaginally, or have a heavy flow. After childbirth, your anatomy may be slightly altered compared to pre-pregnancy,  however, just being postpartum does not mean you automatically size up. 

• Length: Some menstrual cups are longer than others, and this can affect comfort and fit. Most cups have a stem at the bottom to help with removal. These stems come in various lengths, so you can choose one that's comfortable for you. If you're sensitive to touch, a shorter stem might be a better option.

• Pelvic Floor Health: Hypertonic (tight) or even weak pelvic floor muscles can create challenges that affect the fit and comfort of a menstrual cup. Visiting a pelvic health therapist for an assessment will give you the status of your pelvic floor muscles. The therapist will tailor a program to address your pelvic floor needs and address any issues pertaining to positioning and sizing. 
  

Menstrual Cups Are More Than A Fad, But A Modern Necessity

Menstrual cups have gained significant popularity in recent years, challenging the monopoly of pads and tampons and providing an alternate solution. These reusable devices offer a number of advantages, including improved health outcomes, increased convenience, and long-term cost savings.

Current research has shown that women who use tampons may be at a higher risk for exposure to toxic metals and chemicals, such as arsenic and lead, after concentrations of metals were found in all types of tampons, including organic products. While research is currently being conducted to measure how much of these metals are being absorbed by the body, it is currently unclear if these findings have contributed to any negative health effects. However, the question remains: Why take the risk? One of the significant advantages of menstrual cups is the peace of mind they provide regarding the absence of harmful chemicals. Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone; this material is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and safe for the body.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) has also been an ongoing concern for tampon users. While it is rare, this serious bacterial infection is far less likely to occur with the use of menstrual cups. Additional health benefits of menstrual cups include reduced discomfort such as little vaginal irritation and fewer menstrual cramps, as well as reduced dryness due to the cup’s inability to absorb moisture from the vaginal tissue.  

Menstrual cups are able to hold more blood than other products (3-4x more than tampons), so depending on your flow these can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. This fact alone has caused many women to make the switch from tampons and pads to the long wear time of menstrual cups.

This means no tampon or pad changes during the night, work meetings, dates, or class, and up to 12 hours of uninterrupted leak free protection! 

Only one cup is needed for your entire cycle, and it works no matter how your flow varies. Tampons on the other hand necessitate a variety of absorbency levels throughout your period which can result in multiple purchases of period products per cycle. Menstrual cups might seem like a splurge and can cost as much as $40, but when you factor in their long lifespan of up to ten years, they can actually be a more cost-effective option than disposable products saving you close to $300 annually. 

If you're considering trying a menstrual cup, here are a few tips:

• Choose the right size: Consult the sizing guide to determine the best fit and seek guidance from your pelvic floor therapist. 

• Practice insertion: Before your period starts, practice inserting the cup to familiarize yourself with the process.

• Be patient: It may take a few cycles to get used to using a menstrual cup.

If you have any concerns about using a menstrual cup or other menstrual products, don't hesitate to consult with a pelvic health therapist. We can help you find the best option for your individual needs and provide guidance on proper use and care. If you are local to the Coastal Bend area or Corpus Christi, Texas and are looking to make the switch reach out to us today! We carry various menstrual products for purchase in our office and can discuss options with you! Schedule your FREE consultation with a therapist HERE.