A menstrual cup, also call a moon cup , is a device place in the vagina to collect menstrual blood . It is use to replace the traditional sanitary napkins placed outside the body and tampons placed inside the vagina. Made of latex, silicone or thermoplastic , it is soft and elastic and has a bell-shaped shape with a short handle underneath. After being insert into the vagina, the outer wall of the menstrual cup is closely connect to the vagina, making the vagina appear in a vacuum state , and the menstrual blood flowing out will enter the menstrual cup. There is no need to wear a sanitary napkin, which makes movement more convenient. The short stem allows the menstrual cup to balance in the vagina and makes it easier to remove.
In 1932, the first bell-shaped menstrual cup was born and patented in the United States. However, commercialization was not successful because the cup material was hard and heavy. It was not until 1987 that latex material was use in the production of menstrual cups, and menstrual cups were gradually accept.
How to use menstrual cup
The principle of the cup is to insert the cup into the vagina to collect the menstrual blood flowing out of the uterus. Therefore, in terms of usage, the cup does not seem to be friendly to women who are using it for the first time. It requires multiple uses and attempts to find the skills. It can be fold into various shapes, such as S-shaped, C-shaped, 7-shaped, and tulip- shaped . Women who are using it for the first time can try a variety of methods and find the correct angle before inserting it.
When inserting it into the body, it is recommend to squat or sit on the toilet. After relaxing the body, hold the folded menstrual cup with one hand and assist with the other hand, and then slowly put the menstrual cup in. When removing the menstrual cup, hold the bottom of the cup with your index finger and thumb. Then pinch the bottom of the cup until it is completely remove. And please note that the cup needs to be sterilize in boiling water for 15-20 minutes before and after use. Another thing to note is the usage time of the cup. Do not use the cup for more than 12 hours at a time. That is to say, within 12 hours, the cup should be take out, clean and disinfect before use.
The capacity of the menstrual cup is greatly improved compared to tampons and sanitary napkins. Generally, it can last for 8-10 hours . Of course, it may burst in 4-6 hours. This should be determined according to your own quantity. At the beginning, it is best to take it out every 3 hours, observe the capacity, and then adjust the time later. Finally, the lifespan of a menstrual cup is about 5-10 years , so you need to replace it regularly.
When inserting the menstrual cup, you should hold the fingers of the menstrual cup and insert it into the vagina, so! You must pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene . Wash your hands first before placing the menstrual cup. You may also need to insert your fingers deep into the vagina, because the menstrual cup needs to be placed just below the cervix and then unfolded to catch all the menstrual blood flowing out. At the same time, reaching this depth will not cause any foreign body sensation.
Advantages of menstrual cups
1. Environmental protection and saving money: Unlike disposable sanitary napkins and tampons , menstrual cups are reusable. When the cup is full, take it out, empty it, rinse it, and then reuse it. If stored properly, the lifespan can reach 5 to 10 years, reducing a large amount of disposable waste for the environment . And if you think about it carefully, compared with ordinary disposable menstrual products, a cup that will accompany you for several years will save you money.
2. Convenient and comfortable: Compared with tampons that may cause toxic shock if not removed for more than eight hours, the cup can be left in place for up to 12 hours. It is suitable for workers who stand for a long time, such as surgeons, teachers, and people who go out. For tourists, etc., menstrual cups are more convenient. Moreover, after putting the cup on the body, you can say goodbye to humidity and stuffy heat, and you no longer have to worry about the stuffy feeling in the body, as if you are not menstruating.
3. Prevent vulvar eczema and infection: The cup is placed in the vagina, and the menstrual blood flowing out of the cervix flows directly into the cup to keep the vulva dry and clean. Traditional fiber sanitary napkins absorb menstrual blood from the vulva, which may make women with heavy menstrual bleeding and long menstrual periods prone to vulvar eczema and infection due to blood stimulation during menstruation. Menstrual cups are silicone products and are less likely to cause allergies. .
Disadvantages of menstrual cups
1. Although the menstrual cup can be reuse., It needs to be disinfect and clean . If it is not clean thoroughly, it is easy for bacteria to remain on the cup. When use again, it may contaminate the body and cause some infections. 2. It is not easy for some women to place a this cup in their vagina , and inserting a cup into the vagina is time-consuming and troublesome, especially the first few times. It may be like wearing contact lenses, where practice makes perfect. process.
3. Women suffering from Schigger’s syndrome (commonly know as dry eye and dry mouth) are best not to use menstrual cups. Because in addition to the tear glands and saliva secretion of the eyes, the secretory functions of other glands in the body will also be affect. Including vaginal secretions.
4. People suffering from gynecological inflammation should not use menstrual cups. For sisters who have intrauterine devices inserted , it is best to consult a doctor before making the decision.
Does virgin girls can use menstrual cup ?
Yes, virgin girls can absolutely use menstrual cups. Here’s what’s important to know:
- Virginity is a social construct (for girls), not a medical one. The term “virgin or virginity” typically refers to someone girl who has not had penetrative vaginal sex. It’s not defined by the state of the hymen.
- The hymen is a thin, elastic tissue around the opening of the vagina. It can stretch or tear due to various activities, including sports, exercise, masturbation, tampon use, or even just daily movement. Using a menstrual cup might stretch the hymen, but this does not mean a girl has lost their virginity.
- Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina just for to collect menstrual blood. If a person is comfortable inserting a finger into their vagina, they can likely use a menstrual cup.
- Smaller sizes are often recommended for first-time users and teens. The small size cupsa are easier and more comfortable to insert.
- Proper technique and relaxation are key. Taking your time, using a water-based lubricant, and trying different folding methods can make insertion easier.
- Using a menstrual cup will not cause your vagina to stretch. The vagina is a muscular and elastic part of the human body.
Many young people find menstrual cups to be a comfortable, convenient, and eco-friendly option for managing their periods. If you have any concerns or experience discomfort, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or gynecologist.
Common FAQs
1. Can virgins use menstrual cups?
Menstrual cups are much larger than tampons. There is a high chance that the hymen will be break when it comes in and out. So, if you care about this, don’t use it.
2. Will the vagina become loose after using a menstrual cup?
The vagina itself has good ductility and elasticity. Its performance is far superior to that of the cup. So it is not certain who is loose and who is tight.
3. Will it hurt when using a menstrual cup?
Placement is important. If positioned correctly, it’s basically nothing to feel. However, it is not rule out that some people are too nervous and cannot insert the cup. Fortunately, everyone can take this opportunity to learn more about their bodies. Someone told me that using a cup can relieve menstrual cramps. But I can only say that this is a case in point and does not represent the whole story.
4. Can a menstrual cup bring me freedom?
There is no absolute freedom. You can swim, you can ride a bike, you can run, you can sleep without underwear…but no method is foolproof. After using a menstrual cup, you need to pay attention to cleaning and dumping it in time. Some patients with gynecological inflammation are not recommend to use menstrual cups. Oh, by the way, if you have bleeding, don’t beat yourself up. Why bother yourself every time you take out the cup?
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