Menstrual Cups: Price, How To Use, Benefits Over Sanitary Napkins

Reusable sanitary pads, tampons, intimate washes, menstrual cups, and panty liners are some of the many menstrual hygiene products that have made it to the market in contemporary times. Among all the feminine hygiene products, menstrual cups are being hailed for being a cheaper and sustainable alternative. If you continue to stick to the traditional sanitary napkins and wish to give menstrual cups a try, this explainer is for you.

What Is A Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a flexible cup designed in a way that it can be inserted inside the vaginal canal during menstruation, with the primary function of gathering the menstrual discharge. The menstrual cup does not absorb the menstrual flow, it collects it.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Menstrual Cup?

We spoke to Ms. Sujata Pawar, Co-founder, and CEO at Avni- A Feminine Hygiene and Menstrual Healthcare Brand, and asked her to share menstrual cup benefits in comparison to sanitary napkins.

Menstrual Cups Are Cost-Effective

Compared to sanitary napkins, menstrual cups are cost-effective in the long term. Although the initial purchase cost may exceed that of a single pack of sanitary napkins, menstrual cups are capable of serving for a period of up to a decade. This lowers the expenses over the long run.

Menstrual Cups Are Eco-Friendly

Studies suggest that menstruating women typically require an average of eight pads per cycle. This translates to a staggering total of 12.3 billion disposable sanitary napkins in India alone. These sanitary napkins take years to decompose. On the other hand, menstrual cups are made using biodegradable materials such as medical-grade silicone, rubber, or latex. They are reusable and last for several years, further decreasing the volume of waste generated.

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Menstrual Cups Are Convenient To Use

Compared to sanitary napkins, menstrual cups offer a great amount of flexibility and convenience. Like pads, you don't have to regularly keep changing the menstrual cups. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, making it easier for the menstruator to carry on the day without worrying about changing it. Also, menstrual cups are available in multiple sizes, making it easier for women to select a suitable size for them for maximum comfort.

Menstrual Cups Promise Hygiene

Hygiene is a concern with sanitary pads because they bring along challenges like skin irritation and rashes. If worn for a longer period, sanitary pads lead to moisture and heat which can further lead to an infection. Conversely, menstrual cups are fabricated from medical-grade materials that are hypoallergenic and safe. So, menstrual cups eliminate the possibility of any skin irritation or rashes. Moreover, menstrual cups are odourless, thereby providing women with the confidence to continue with their daily routine without any embarrassment.

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How To Wear And Remove A Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is fit into the vaginal wall and collects all the blood. You might find it tricky to use it at first but over time with some practice, you will learn it.

• First, locate the vaginal opening and insert a finger to locate the cervix. It is the cervix where you position your menstrual cup. It can take longer than usual if it is your first time.
• Get comfortable and insert the cup into the vagina. There are different folding methods to insert menstrual cups. (See the chart below)

• You might feel uneasy about using it for the first time. However, through the day, you will get used to it.
• To remove the menstrual cup, grasp the bottom of the menstrual cup, squeeze it, and flush the content into the toilet.
• Rinse the menstrual cup and reuse it.