People nowadays are beginning to be conscious about environmental and health awareness. In the area of ladies’ hygiene we have disposable sanitary pads and tampons in order to help us get by of our monthly periods. However, since these two are disposables, we can only imagine the accumulated garbage out from them.
Menstrual cups are designed not only to help the environment but also to benefit women in areas of health, hygiene, practicality and comfort. Instead of absorbing the bodily fluid just like how sanitary pads and tampons do, the cup can collect it. It can be cleaned, sanitized and reused later on. With due care, it can be used for as long as 10 years.
These cups take care of a woman’s body as they lessen vaginal infection and do not contain harmful chemicals or toxins like dioxin. They have been around since the 1930’s and are made of medical grade silicon, rubber or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer).
Directions
- First things first: Read the instruction that come with the menstrual cup and follow the directions carefully.
- Wash your hands and the cup with soap to get rid of any unwanted dirt like dust. The first time you use the cup, it should be boiled first.
- The easiest fold you can do with the cup is the C-fold kind. However, as women come in different shape, look for the easier fold that suits your body for more comfort.
- Insert the cup into your vagina, tilting it back to the base of your spine. It should sit comfortably in your vagina in a position lower than a tampon. As it is placed inside, the cup should be opened. Use your finger(s) to check if it has unfolded to prevent leaks and you can twist it just to make sure that you feel comfortable.
- You can use the cup for up to twelve hours but if you have a heavy menstrual period, you can check on it from time to time.
- With your hands clean, remove the cup by gently pulling it down until you can reach and have a grip on the base. Pinch the base and release the suction then safely remove.
- Empty the cup, rinse it with warm water and you can re-insert it for next use.