A menstrual cup, also called a moon cup, is a device Place in the vagina to collect menstrual blood . It replaces the traditional sanitary pads that are placed outside the body and tampons that are placed inside the vagina. Made of latex Silicone or thermoplastic It is soft and elastic and has a bell-shaped shape with a short handle at the bottom. After inserting into the vagina, the outer wall of the menstrual cup connects closely with the vagina, making the vagina appear like a picture vacuum condition , and the escaping menstrual blood enters the menstrual cup. There is no need to wear a sanitary napkin, which makes movement more comfortable. The short stem ensures that the menstrual cup is balanced in the vagina and can be removed more easily.
In 1932, the first bell-shaped menstrual cup was born and patented in the USA. However, commercialization was not successful because the cup material was hard and heavy. It was not until 1987 that latex material was used in the production of menstrual cups and menstrual cups gradually became popular.
How to use the menstrual cup
The principle of the cup is to insert the cup into the vagina to collect the menstrual blood flowing out of the uterus. Therefore, in terms of use, the cup does not seem suitable for women who use it for the first time. It requires multiple uses and attempts to find the skills. It can be folded into different shapes, such as: S-shaped, C-shaped, 7-shaped and tulip-shaped . Women using it for the first time can try different methods and find the right angle before insertion.
When inserting it into the body, it is recommended to squat or sit on the toilet. After relaxing the body, hold the folded menstrual cup with one hand and support it with the other hand. Then slowly insert the menstrual cup. When removing the menstrual cup, hold the bottom of the cup with your index finger and thumb. Then squeeze the bottom of the cup until it is completely removed. And please note that the cup must do this too Sterilize in boiling water for 15-20 minutes before and after use. The lifespan of the cup should also be taken into account. Do not use the cup for more than 12 hours at a time. This means the cup should be removed within 12 hours, cleaned and disinfected before use.
The capacity of the menstrual cup is significantly improved compared to tampons and sanitary pads. In general, it can take a long time 8-10 hours . Of course it can burst in 4-6 hours. This should be determined according to your own quantity. It’s best to take it out every 3 hours at the beginning, monitor the capacity and adjust the time later. Finally, the lifespan of a menstrual cup is approx 5-10 years Therefore, it needs to be replaced regularly.
When inserting the menstrual cup, you should hold the fingers of the menstrual cup and insert it into the vagina, so! You need to Pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene . First wash your hands before putting on the menstrual cup. You may also need to insert your fingers deep into the vagina as the menstrual cup needs to be placed directly under the cervix and then unfolded to catch all of the menstrual blood that flows out. At the same time, there is no feeling of a foreign body when this depth is reached.
Benefits of menstrual cups
1. Environmental protection and save money: Unlike disposable sanitary pads and tampons, menstrual cups are reusable. When the cup is full, remove it, empty it, rinse it and then use it again. If stored properly, the service life can be 5 to 10 years, reducing a large amount of disposable waste to the environment. And if you think about it, compared to regular disposable menstrual products, you’ll save money with a cup that will last you for several years.
2. Convenient and comfortable: Compared to tampons, which can cause toxic shock if not removed for more than eight hours, the cup can stay in place for up to 12 hours. It is suitable for workers who stand for long periods of time, such as: B. Surgeons, teachers and people going out. For tourists etc. menstrual cups are more practical. In addition, after putting the cup on the body, you can say goodbye to humidity and stuffy heat and no longer have to worry about the stuffy feeling in the body as if you were not menstruating.
3. Prevent Vulvar Eczema and Infections: The cup is inserted into the vagina and the menstrual blood flowing from the cervix flows directly into the cup to keep the vulva dry and clean. Traditional fiber sanitary napkins absorb menstrual blood from the vulva, which may make women with heavy menstrual bleeding and long menstrual periods more susceptible to vulvar eczema and infections due to blood stimulation during menstruation. Menstrual cups are silicone products and are less likely to cause allergies. .
Disadvantages of menstrual cups
1. Although the menstrual cup can be reused must be disinfected and cleaned . If the cup is not cleaned thoroughly, bacteria can easily build up on the cup. If used again, it can contaminate the body and cause some infections. 2. It’s not easy for Some women insert such a cup into their vagina, and inserting a cup into the vagina is time-consuming and tedious, especially the first few times. It can be like wearing contact lenses, where practice makes perfect. Procedure.
3. Women suffer Schigger syndrome (commonly known as dry eyes and dry mouth) It’s best to avoid menstrual cups. In addition to the tear glands and salivary secretion of the eyes, the secretory functions of other glands in the body are also impaired. Including vaginal secretions.
4. People suffering from gynecological inflammation should not use menstrual cups. For sisters who have had an intrauterine device inserted, it is best to consult a doctor before making the decision.
frequently asked Questions
1. Can virgins use menstrual cups?
Menstrual cups are much larger than tampons. There is a high chance of the hymen tearing as it comes in and out. So if you care about it, don’t use it.
2. Will the vagina loosen after using a menstrual cup?
The vagina itself has good ductility and elasticity. Its performance is far superior to that of the cup. So it is not certain who is loose and who is tight.
3. Does it hurt if I use a menstrual cup?
Placement is important. If positioned correctly, it’s basically unnoticeable. However, it cannot be ruled out that some people are too nervous and cannot insert the cup. Fortunately, everyone can take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about their body. Someone told me that using a cup can relieve menstrual cramps. But I can only say that this is a typical example and does not reflect the whole story.
4. Can a menstrual cup bring me freedom?
There is no absolute freedom. You can swim, you can ride a bike, you can run, you can sleep without underwear… but no method is foolproof. After using a menstrual cup, you must be careful to clean and dispose of it in a timely manner. For some patients with gynecological inflammation, the use of menstrual cups is not recommended. By the way, if you have bleeding, don’t worry. Why should you bother taking out the cup every time?
