10 reasons you should consider a menstrual cup

Firstly, Happy International Women’s Day!

We thought we’d seize today and take a look at menstrual cups and some benefits surrounding this cool tool.

Menstruation, menstrual or ‘moon’ cups have been around since the 1930’s but are having a resurgence in popularity due to their ecofriendly nature and convenience. Menstrual cups are made of soft, flexible material, usually, rubber or silicon. They are designed to be folded and positioned into the vagina during your period. Once inserted the cup opens and collects the menstrual blood, rather than absorbing it like tampons or pads do. Cups come in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials. A cup can be worn for up to 12 hours, including overnight. It is then emptied and washed with soap and reused.

What are the benefits of cups.

1. Environmental benefits: Fewer tampons, pads and pant liners means less waste in our landfills and less manufacturing pollution.
2. Cost saving: Cups are initially an investment but can result in significant savings. They can last up to 10 years and are designed for long term use
3. Easy to use: If you have used tampons you should have no trouble learning how to insert a menstrual cup.
4. Health benefits: Menstrual cups don’t disrupt your vaginal pH and bacteria balance, unlike tampons which absorb your vaginal fluid. This also reduced your risk toxic shock syndrome (TSS) and dryness.
5. Odour: When you use a menstrual cup blood isn’t exposed to the air as it is with pads, therefore, there is less bad odour.
6. Hypoallergenic: There are many different types of cups with many designed for those with sensitive skin, dermatitis or latex allergies.
7. Time saving: Tampons need changing every four to eight hours, but cups can stay in for up to twelve hours, therefore, they can be used overnight.
8. Capacity: They hold up to three times more fluid then tampons and can cope with a heavy period flow.
9. Comfortable: Once you’ve found a brand that is the right fit, you won’t even notice it’s there
10. Convenience and reliability: You can wear a cup when anticipating your period and when inserted properly, cups are less likely to leak than tampons. Menstrual cups are also handy when travelling!

Visit a Flannery’s store today to learn more about what cup would be best for you.

By Jean Jarrett ~ Flannerys Naturopath