Menstrual Cup - To have, or not to have

You’ve got your period again, and now you need to stock up on tampons and pads. You feel awful, and your flow is heavy, so a tampon that should last several hours needs changing every hour. You worry about having enough supplies and whether your pad will leak, and you avoid swimming altogether. However, one product, costing a few dozen euros and lasting 5-10 years, can alleviate many of these issues.

You’ve heard about menstrual cups, read about them, but still don’t quite understand what they are. Let’s describe them and explain their benefits and possible drawbacks.

What is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is made from medical-grade silicone, a smooth and relatively soft material. It is inserted directly into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. You just need to boil it before and after your period. Personally, I use a special cleaning powder; I sprinkle the prescribed amount into a designated cup, pour hot water over it, and let it boil for a few minutes. During menstruation, you just need to empty, rinse, and reinsert it. Simple.

How to Use It

When my period starts, I boil the cup and take it into the shower with me. Rinse the cup, squeeze its rim to make it narrower, and then insert it. It takes some practice; I recommend trying it before your period. Once inserted, the cup creates a vacuum and attaches itself from all sides. Sometimes this process can cause a slight dull pain, but it's nothing severe, more like a sudden surprise. I usually insert it in the morning and change it in the evening. There are several sizes; I use the smallest one. If unsure, empty it after school or work to see. I’ve changed it a few times outdoors, like during a trip by using public restrooms. Empty the cup into the toilet, rinse it in the sink, and reinsert it. Over time, you get used to it, and it becomes easy.

Advantages

A menstrual cup is an eco-friendly option made from safe silicone, lasting up to 10 years. It doesn't dry out your mucous membranes like tampons, other menstrual aids are also often bleached with chlorine or full of other chemicals. Economically, cups are also beneficial. I have cups ranging from 10 to 30 euros. Let’s say you buy one cup for 20 euros, and it lasts for five years, costing you 4 euros per year. Comparing this to tampons, an average pack costs around 5 euros. You’ll probably use at least one pack per menstruation week, totalling around 60 euros per year. Over five years, that's 300 euros, while the cup remains at the initial 20 euros. Clearly, it pays off.

Another favourite advantage is not constantly worrying about having enough supplies. Just empty, rinse, and reinsert the cup. Also, tampons often make me physically ill, and I get headaches, possibly due to the chemicals. For me, the cup is very comfortable, and I often forget I’m using it (which might be a bit problematic, but it’s better than constantly fretting about menstruation).

Disadvantages

The cup might not be suitable for everyone. I’m unsure how it works with an intact hymen, possibly making insertion harder, but it varies from woman to woman. It takes some practice and patience to learn how to insert and remove it correctly. There’s a small stem at the end to pull it out, best done in a squat position. Don’t rush it; take your time. Long nails can make it harder, but it's manageable. It just requires practice and getting used to it.

Menstrual cups aren’t for everyone. I see many benefits and have used them for years. If you’ve found a better option, don’t force yourself to change just because of others. Take your time to transition and make it comfortable. After all, it’s about us women and our organs that can push out a living person. Be gentle with yourselves and much love to you all.