Menstrual Cups 101: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking for eco-friendly period products? With menstrual cups, you can become more environmentally conscious while saving money due to how cost-effective these products are. Whether you’re a veteran of environmentally conscious living, new to the world of sustainable menstrual care, or even just want to save money on tampons and pads, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s explore what menstrual cups are, how to choose the perfect product, menstrual cup benefits, and some of the myths that you may have heard that are simply untrue!

What Are Menstrual Cups and How Do They Work?

First things first, what exactly is a menstrual cup? These are small, flexible, funnel-shaped cups made of rubber or silicone that you put into your vagina. Unlike tampons and pads that will absorb your flow, a menstrual cup collects it. Once it’s full, you simply empty the contents, rinse it out, and put it back in. It holds more liquid than tampons and can be worn for typically up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. Best of all, they are reusable for a long period of time, so you don’t have to keep purchasing a new one each and every month.

The History of Menstrual Cups and Their Use

While you may have just heard about these extraordinary period products, you might be shocked to hear that they have been around since the 1930s. The first commercially available menstrual cup was patented by Leona Chalmers in 1937. Despite their long history, they've only gained substantial popularity in recent years as people have desired a more cost-effective way to mitigate their monthly cycles. With a growing global emphasis on eco-friendliness and health-conscious living, more people are turning to these nifty devices.

Menstrual Cup Benefits: Sustainable, Cost-Effective, and Healthy Period Care

Benefit #1: Menstrual Cups Promote Sustainability

Think about all those pads and tampons that you use each and every month. The environmental impact of these disposed products is enormous! Tampons and pads can take years to decompose, and they contribute significantly to landfill waste. However, with menstrual cups, you can reduce how much discarded period products contribute to harmful environmental impacts.

Some menstrual cups can last up to ten years with proper care. That’s a decade of waste you’re reducing! By switching to eco-friendly period products, you're taking a big step towards a greener planet. One menstrual cup can replace hundreds of tampons and save the planet from plastic wrappers, applicators, and individual packaging.

Benefit #2: These Cups Are Cost-Effective

Now, let's talk money. Sure, the upfront cost of a menstrual cup might seem a bit steep – typically ranging from $20 to $40. But here's the kicker – that’s the only purchase you'll need for years! No more monthly runs to the store for tampons or pads. Over time, you're looking at saving hundreds of dollars. Sustainable menstrual care isn't just good for the planet; it's kind to your wallet, too.

Benefit #3: They Are Healthy and Convenient

Finally, let's touch on health and convenience. Menstrual cups are made from safe materials like medical-grade silicone, rubber, or latex. They don't dry out your vagina or leave behind fibers the way tampons can. This helps maintain your natural pH balance and lowers the risk of infections. Plus, you can wear them for up to 12 hours, meaning more freedom and fewer bathroom trips. That’s a win in any woman’s book!

How to Choose the Right Menstrual Cup

So, you’re sold on the idea of using a menstrual cup, but how do you choose the right product? It can be hard to sift through all of the available brands out there, but here are some factors we recommend considering before you make your purchase:

• Size: Cups are available in different sizes based on your age, flow, and whether you've given birth vaginally. Smaller sizes are generally recommended for those under 30 who haven’t given birth vaginally. On the other hand, larger sizes are for those over 30 or who have had children.
• Material: Most cups are made from medical-grade silicone, but you can also find options in latex or rubber, depending on any allergies you may have.
• Firmness: Firmer cups open more easily but might be uncomfortable for those with sensitive bladders. Softer cups are more comfortable but can be tricky to pop open.

If you’re a new menstrual cup user who hasn’t given birth, go for a medium-sized silicone cup with moderate firmness. Many brands provide guidance through online size charts or customer service to help you determine the right size for your anatomy and flow.

A Quick Guide on How to Use a Menstrual Cup

Got your cup? Great! Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

• Insertion: After watching your hands, fold the cup (there are different techniques, but the C-fold or punch-down fold is a good starting point) and insert it into your vagina, aiming it towards your tailbone. Once inside, it should spring open to create a light seal against your vaginal walls.
• Removal: To remove, gently pinch the base of the cup to break the seal, then pull it out. Empty its contents into either the toilet or sink.
• Cleaning: Rinse with cold water to avoid stains, then wash with a mild, unscented soap. After your cycle, sterilize your cup by boiling it in water for 5-10 minutes.

Common Challenges with Menstrual Cups and How to Overcome Them

Worried about leaks or comfort? You’re not alone. It might take one or two cycles to get the hang of it. If your cup leaks, try repositioning it or trying a different size. For comfort issues, a softer cup may be what you need. Remember, practice makes perfect when mastering how to use a menstrual cup.

Debunking Common Menstrual Cup Myths

Myth: Menstrual Cups Are Unsafe

False. When used correctly, menstrual cups are safe and even reduce the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) compared to tampons. Menstrual cups will collect blood rather than absorb it, thereby reducing the risk of TSS and promoting a healthier environment for your vagina.

Myth: They’re Not Hygienic

Wrong again. Proper cleaning and handling keep things clean. Cups can be sterilized before and after each cycle, and regular washing ensures that they remain hygienic throughout your period. Plus, all menstrual cups are made of medical-grade silicone and don’t harbor bacteria at all.

Myth: They’re Only for Women Who Have Given Birth

No way. Menstrual cups come in sizes suitable for everyone, from teenagers to adults, regardless of childbirth history. Various sizes and shapes are designed to fit different anatomies, making them accessible to all.

Purchase Your Menstrual Cup Today

So, are you ready to make the switch? Menstrual cups are a sustainable form of menstrual care that helps you save money for many years to come. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself. To purchase your first menstrual cup, visit Glide and Glory today to shop our selection of cost-effective, eco-friendly period products. It’s time to embrace the shift to environmentally friendly monthly menstrual care!