Let’s not beat around the bush ladies: periods are a massive pain in the ass and we spend most of our adult lives trying to find the best ways to control them. Whether you suffer from intense cramping or severe sickness, or you just have a heavy flow, you need the best period control products for your individual needs. If you’re curious whether a menstrual cup is right for you, we’re here to answer those less seemly questions.
What is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup is a flexible silicone or rubber cup designed to be inserted into the vagina to collect blood when you’re on your period. Rather than absorbing the blood as a tampon or sanitary towel does, it collects it. When you change it, simply empty it out and wash it to be re-used.
What Are The Benefits of a Menstrual Cup?
Tampons and pads each come with their pros and cons, and you may feel that you’re set on your choice of menstrual control. Menstrual cups are one of the newest innovations when it comes to controlling/collecting your flow when you’re on your period. Here are some of the benefits of using a menstrual cup:
It’s better for the environment
Since you don’t need to keep re-purchasing your menstrual cup as you do with pads or tampons, you’re saving a great deal of money and contributing significantly less to landfill waste. Just make sure you look out for a menstrual cup that’s reusable rather than disposable.
It doesn’t smell
As the fluid is collected rather than absorbed, it isn’t exposed to air like it is when you wear a pad, meaning there is no embarrassing odor.
It’s easy to use and it’s comfortable
Menstrual cups are easy to insert and, if appropriately applied (like a tampon), you shouldn’t even feel it there.
You can go longer without changing
You can leave your menstrual cup in for up to 12 hours before changing it/washing it, and use the same clean cup for 1-2 years. You should get a new one sooner if you see any sort of wear.
Your vaginal pH won’t be affected
Tampons can disrupt your vagina’s natural pH as they absorb fluid, whereas menstrual cups won’t disrupt your bacterial balance.