The menstrual cycle is a part of the female reproductive system. It is a cycle that each female completes before her next period, over the years sanitary towels have been used, ranging from tampons to pads.
But rumors have it that people who use menstrual cups are liable to being infertile, but although, these rumors have not been confirmed.
Lately, the use of menstrual cups have become a new phenomenon, and its gradually making its way into the homes of many. What makes them so unique is the fact that they are reusable, yes you heard me right. REUSABLE!!!!
It is a safe, economical and really environmentally friendly way of collecting menstrual fluid during a female’s period.
Although it is quite intimidating, I will be giving some helpful tips and answering some commonly asked questions. Nicole Telfer who is a science Content Producer has answered some of the questions that may bug us:
Are there potential risks? Yes, with every merit, there are demerits. You are more likely to experience minor irritation from wearing the wrong cup size than you are to develop a severe complication like toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
TSS is a rare but serious complication that can result from certain bacterial infections. TSS as a result of tampon use is rare. It’s even rarer when using menstrual cups. To date, there has only been one report of TSS associated with the use of a menstrual cup.
How long can a menstrual cup be worn? They can be worn for up to 12 hours before they are needed to be emptied out and washed clean. Although people who have heavier menstrual flows may need to empty their cups much more often. This means that the cup can be worn all through the night.
Can the size of the cups fit into my vagina? Although menstrual cups are much wider than a tampon, remember, one of the vagina’s functions is to allow a baby to pass through it, so a 4 cm diameter menstrual cup is very narrow in comparison.
Can I pee and poop while wearing a menstrual cup? Yes, you can. Peeing with a menstrual cup in is easy—the menstrual cup will not interfere with urination.
Can I have sex while wearing a menstrual cup? Penetrative sex, like penis-in-vagina sex, inserting sex toys, or fingering, is not possible while wearing a menstrual cup.
Can I use a menstrual cup if I’m a virgin? Yes. Your vagina does not undergo some huge change when you have sex—it’s still the same amazing organ. If you haven’t yet had sex, used tampons, or masturbated with a sex toy or finger, it may take you a bit longer to get the hang of a menstrual cup.
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Now that we some of the major questions have been answered, HEALTH LINE has given us some few helpful tips for use.
How to clean the menstrual cup
It’s important to sterilize your menstrual cup before you insert it for the first time.
To do this:
- Submerge the cup completely in a pot of boiling for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Empty the pot and allow the cup to return to room temperature.
- Wash your hands with warm water and mild, antibacterial soap.
- Wash the cup with a mild, water-based, oil-free soap and rinse thoroughly.
- Dry the cup with a clean towel.