Sanitary napkins and tampons may have been your go-to period products since forever. But did you know that they contribute to approximately 113,000 tonnes of menstrual waste in India’s landfills annually? According to a report by the Central Pollution Control Board, the staggering quantity of used disposable period products contributes largely to pollution and spread of infections. Let’s skip to the good part now! You can make your period more sustainable and environment-friendly by switching to menstrual cups. Menstrual cup is a funnel-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to collect period blood and can be reused for up to a decade. We are sure you’re already convinced to take the plunge. So here’s a detailed guide on how to use a menstrual cup. Get ready to make your period comfier, cheaper and eco-friendly.
How To Use//Insert A Menstrual Cup
Wondering how to insert a menstrual cup into the vagina? Well, it can seem a bit daunting at first. But we assure you that after getting past the initial learning curve of using the cup, you will never look back at pads and tampons. For a seamless first experience, here are all the points you must keep in mind when making the sustainable switch:
Select The Right Size
Menstrual cups usually come in three different sizes: small, medium and large. Now, choosing the right menstrual cup size has less to do with the intensity of your period flow and depends majorly on these two factors:
Cervix Height
Chillax! Figuring out your cervix height is no difficult feat. All you gotta do is sit in a comfortable position and gently insert your pointer finger into the vagina. Keep sliding the finger in till you’re able to feel a round, firm muscle at the end of the vaginal canal. That’s your cervix, pal. Now, withdraw your finger ‘coz it’s time to measure the height. If the cervix falls between the first and the second knuckle of your finger, you have a short-heighted one and should opt for a small-sized cup. If the cervix lies between the second and the third knuckle, go for a medium or a large-sized cup. For a more precise estimate of your cup size, you can take Sirona’s size guide quiz.
Pelvic Floor Muscles
The strength of your pelvic floor muscles usually depends on age, childbirth and physical activity. For instance, if you’ve had a vaginal delivery, your muscles may be weaker in comparison to a teenager. So a large-sized cup will fit you well. Watch this video for more details on finding your perfect cup match:
Menstrual Cup Insertion
Folks, contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t hurt to insert a menstrual cup. But it does come down to doing it right. Most menstrual cups are made with flexible material like silicone or latex. They can be easily folded into a C-shape and inserted into the vagina. Once inside, the cup opens up and forms a firm suction grip with the pelvic floor muscles. It sits comfortably there, stays in place, collects period blood, and provides leak-proof protection. Watch this video to get it right:
POPxo Recommends best Menstrual Cup: Sirona’s Menstrual Cup
Made with 100% medical-grade silicone, this funnel-shaped device is super-safe to use. It has a capacity to collect 28 ml of blood and gives leak-proof protection for eight hours straight.
Menstrual Cup Cleaning
Cleaning the menstrual cup properly is an integral part of using a menstrual cup safely. Dirty cups can introduce harmful bacteria into the vagina and lead to infections of the reproductive organs and urinary tract. So always wash the cup with water after emptying it and before wearing it again. Wash it with a mild cleanser thoroughly once a day to unclog the suction holes of the cup and remove germs. Another point to keep in mind is to sterilize the cup in hot boiling water or in a sterilizing machine before storing the cup for your next period. Here’s a video explaining how to clean a menstrual cup:
POPxo Recommends Best Menstrual Cup Wash: Sirona’s Hygienic Menstrual Cup Wash
Made with mild and natural surfactants, this cleanser is tough on the germs but gentle on the material of the menstrual cup. It decontaminates the reusable device effectively and helps it last longer.
POPxo Recommends Best Menstrual Cup Sterilizer: Sirona’s Menstrual Cup Sterilizer
Bid adieu to the hassle and mess of immersing your cup in boiled water. Simply use Sirona’s Menstrual Cup Sterilizer to santise your cup thoroughly. All you gotta do is fill the base of the device with 5ml of water, place the cup inside and switch it on. Wait for three minutes and tada! Your cup’s ready for reuse.
How To Remove Menstrual Cup
The device provides leak-proof protection for up to eight hours. So you can empty and wash it once a day or do the drill every three-four hours if you have a heavy period flow. In case, you’re scared of creating a crime scene on the toilet seat, here’s a step-by-step cup removal guide to your rescue:
Step 1: Sit Comfortably
Sit in a comfortable position on your toilet seat with your legs wide open. You can even squat over it. Make sure you’re relaxed to avoid tightening of the vaginal muscles.
Step 2: Locate The Cup & Pinch
Use your thumb and pointer finger to locate the stem. Slide them in to locate the cup’s body, pinch it to loosen its suction grip, and gently pull it out. You can also push your pelvic muscles downwards just like you do when pooping. This can provide additional support and help remove the cup easily.
Step 3: Wash The Cup
Once you pull out the cup, empty it in a drain or the pot and wash it with water. Pat it dry with a clean cotton cloth and put it back on.
That’s all you need to know about how to use a menstrual cup, folks! It may take a while, but once you get a hang of it, you will thank us for recommending the reusable device.
Featured Image: Pexels
Also Read:
Menstrual Cup During Exercising: The cup actually provides leak proof protection–even while you’re working out. Read this for more details.
How To Clean Menstrual Cup: Here’s the cup-cleansing code you’ve got to follow in order to enjoy using it safely.
Menstrual Cup Size: Here’s a detailed guide to help you find your perfect menstrual cup match easily.
