Period Products: 15 Common FAQs About Menstrual Cups

Modern menstrual cups might appear to be the latest period products on the market, but in fact, they have been around since the 1930s. Their popularity has gone through a roller coaster ride over the years. It's no surprise that many women remain perplexed about how a period cup works.

Today, they are making a comeback and many women are discovering the benefits of using these products. It is estimated that more than 1 million women use menstrual cups across the world today. Despite this, there are still many questions about how you would use one of these clever devices.

Does it leak? Will the cup move around when inserted? Is it safe?

Making the switch from tampons or sanitary pads can seem daunting. So we've put together some of the most popular questions to help dispel any fears around the menstrual cup. Read on to find out everything you need to know.

1. What Is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a reusable cup made from medical-grade silicone which is bell-shaped and flexible enough to be inserted into the cervix. Period cups and diva cups are some of the other names you may have heard of, but it is essentially the same as a menstrual cup.

It is designed to collect the menstrual flow and prevent it from escaping out of the vagina. The traditional design of the product means that there are no strings or pads to worry about, and because it is reusable, you can save a lot of money over time.

Since the design can hold up to 3 times more fluid than a tampon, this means that you only need to change it every 6 to12 hours depending on your flow.

2. Are Menstrual Cups Safe?

Yes, they are very safe to use. They have been around for more than 80 years and have been used by millions of women across the world.

The original menstrual cup from the thirties was made from latex which caused some allergies. However, it soon changed to medical-grade silicone making it safe and one of the best period products for women.

3. How Do I Use a Menstrual Cup?

Menstrual cups are very easy to use and do not require any special skill or technique. You need to wash your hands with soap and water before inserting them into the vagina.

To remove it, you pinch the base of the cup and gently pull it out of the vagina. Then you can clean it with soap before reinserting it again later on in your cycle. The entire process is quite simple once you're familiar with it and should only take a few seconds.

4. Can Virgins Use Menstrual Cups?

You can definitely use a menstrual cup if you’re a virgin. The hymen (a thin tissue on the opening of the vagina) does not block the flow of your period, so it won't be a problem inserting or using a cup.

If you're worried about feeling pain then you can always try using a smaller size and relaxing beforehand to avoid too much tension.

5. Do Menstrual Cups Leak When Full?

Yes, they might leak if the cup is not sitting correctly or if there isn't a proper seal around the cup, but this is rare.

If fact, the menstrual cup can hold most of the period blood from one cycle for the majority of women. But this doesn't mean that you can wear the cup without emptying it for the whole duration of your period. Emptying the cup within the specified time and ensuring that you have a good seal will ensure that you have minimal (if any) leakage.

6. How Do I Clean My Menstrual Cup?

When cleaning your cup, make sure that you use only mild soap and water to avoid damaging it. Water temperature should either be cold or lukewarm as hot water may encourage staining from the blood. You should never use any harsh chemicals or strong detergents to clean it as this could leave a residue that can cause irritation on your skin.

Another tip when cleaning out your menstrual cup is to pinch off the air from it before you empty it into the toilet bowl or sink to avoid mess.

7. What About Cleaning It in a Public Restroom?

Since menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, you may not have to empty and clean them outside at all. But if you need to do this in a public restroom, bring a bottle of water or soak a paper towel and bring it inside the stall. Remove the cup and empty it into the toilet, then clean it with a paper towel or water.

Some restroom stalls may also have their own sink, which you can use to clean the cup out with soap and water.

7. Can Menstrual Cups Be Stuck Inside?

Sometimes the menstrual cup may feel like it's stuck inside, but due to the flexible material, it can be easily removed. It's a very common feeling especially if you're new to using a menstrual cup. Sometimes the seal can be extra tight making it awkward to remove.

If you are having trouble removing your menstrual cup, try bearing down with your abdominal muscles a bit as this will help push it out. You can also try squatting down or lying on your back to remove it.

8. Can a Menstrual Cup Get Lost Inside?

Having a menstrual cup floating around lost inside your womb is, fortunately, not possible. The shape and size of the cup mean that there is no place where the cup can disappear. As the cup is designed to seal against the walls of the vagina, it will not move once inserted correctly.

9. Can I Wear My Menstrual Cup Overnight?

Yes, it is safe to keep wearing a menstrual cup when you sleep, but you should always empty the cup after 12 hours and no more than that. This will depend on your flow.

So if you find that you are having heavier periods then you may need to empty the cup sooner. It should be very comfortable to wear overnight as you will not be able to feel anything once inserted.

10. Do I Need to Remove the Menstrual Cup When Urinating?

There is no need to remove the cup when passing urine since the cup does not obstruct the urethra. The period cup is worn higher up inside the vagina which is separate from where you pass urine. If you do feel uncomfortable urinating or passing stool with the cup inside, you can always remove it before doing so.

11. Can You Do Sports or Swim With a Menstrual Cup?

Absolutely, as long as you ensure the cup is inserted and sealed. The seal will stop any water from entering and any leakage to pass through whilst you swim or do sports.

Do be aware that if you have strong pelvic muscles then it could compromise the seal of the menstrual cup, resulting in leakage. But for most women, it is completely fine to use one while doing vigorous activities.

12. Will Blood Spill When I Take Out the Menstrual Cup?

Periods are messy enough as they are, and the thought of removing a cup full of liquid blood can be offputting. Getting a tiny bit of blood on the fingers when removing the cup is normal, but there should be no spillage once you learn how to remove the cup.

13. Are Menstrual Cups Safer Than Other Period Products?

Menstrual cups are as safe to use as tampons and sanitary pads. The most important question is which one you feel most comfortable using. Many women use a combination of different feminine products to fit in with their lifestyle and physical needs.

14. Can You Get an Infection From a Menstrual Cup?

No, a menstrual cup cannot give you an infection as long as you practice good hygiene. Washing your hands before and after you handle the cup will ensure that you minimize any infections. You should also clean the cup at least twice a day or a few more times to ensure that you stay fresh and comfortable throughout your whole cycle.

15. How Long Does a Menstrual Cup Last?

Some menstrual cups can last up to ten years, which is possible but almost sounds too good to be true. The reality is that most cups on the market will have a shelf life of up to 4 years, and this will depend on how each person takes care of them.

Should I Use a Menstrual Cup?

Menstrual cups are one of many different types of period products and work as well as tampons and pads. Some advantages include less or no foul odors since the blood is not exposed to air and it holds more blood in comparison to tampons. You'll also save money from not having to buy menstrual products all the time.

Like other period care products, there is more than one type of menstrual cup to choose from to fit your body. Give them a try and if it doesn't suit you, then you can always go back to using pads.

Have some more questions? Then why not contact us at Flobox where our friendly staff is more than happy to help.