Personal Care & Beauty
Why Menstrual Cups Are the Future: Pros and Cons You Need to Know
March 16, 2023
Fatma Say
4 min
Menstrual cups are an increasingly popular alternative to traditional menstrual products, such as pads and tampons. But, there are still many people who are hesitant to try them due to a lack of knowledge about how they work and the pros and cons of using them. So, if you are considering trying a menstrual cup, or just want to learn more about them, keep reading.
Pro 1: It’s better for the environment, and reduces your waste.
Using a menstrual cup has a significant benefit for the environment as it can be reused for up to 10 years, which helps to reduce the number of disposable products by up to 2,700 times. This is in contrast to using pads or tampons, which come with a combination of synthetic and absorbent materials, along with adhesives, fragrances, dyes, and chemicals. By purchasing 1 or 2 menstrual cups, you can eliminate waste during your period and contribute positively to the planet.
Pro 2: It has a longer wear time.
A menstrual cup has a much larger capacity than a large pad or a super tampon, meaning you can go longer without having to visit the bathroom. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time, whereas tampon and pad manufacturers generally recommend changing them every 4 to 8 hours.
Menstrual cups typically have a capacity of 0.85-1.01 fluid ounces (25-30 milliliters), allowing for longer wear without needing to be emptied frequently. In comparison, a night pad can hold between 0.34-0.51 fluid ounces (10-15 milliliters) of blood, while a super-absorbent tampon can hold up to 0.41 fluid ounces (12 milliliters) of fluid.
Pro 3: Stop wasting money on pads and tampons.
According to a survey of 2,000 Americans who menstruate, the respondents set aside an average of $30 per month for menstrual products such as sanitary pads, tampons, and related items.
Pro 4: You will experience a well-balanced period.
Wearing pads for extended periods of time can create a warm and damp environment that encourages the growth of bacteria, leading to discomfort and irritation. Similarly, tampons can disrupt the natural pH balance of the body, absorbing not just menstrual blood but also the beneficial bacteria that help maintain vaginal health.
Pro 5: It is best for traveling.
Once you become familiar with using it, you won't even feel it and can go about your day as usual, free to do whatever you please. This includes activities like sports, where you can participate without concern for leaks, flaps, or strings. Also, you don't have to worry about how to carry it!
People often wonder if it's safe to swim with a menstrual cup, and the answer is yes! You can also do a variety of other physical activities such as biking, running, horseback riding, and even curling.
Con 1: Overcoming the learning curve and embracing the benefits
Using a menstrual cup requires getting comfortable with inserting and removing it manually, which can be intimidating at first. But as you become accustomed to the process, you'll discover fascinating insights into your natural menstrual cycle.
Seeing how much blood your body produces may feel like a pro or a con, but either way, it's a reminder of the incredible capabilities of the human body.
Con 2: Getting used to cleaning your cup
While menstrual cups are a more eco-friendly option compared to disposable products, they do require proper maintenance. Sanitizing your cup by boiling it for 5 minutes at the start and end of each menstrual cycle is crucial, as is checking for wear and tear. While you don't need to sanitize your cup with each emptying, many prefer to wash it with gentle soap and water. Don't let the upkeep scare you away from the benefits of menstrual cups!
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