Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are a great alternative to single-use pads and tampons. They help the environment immensely because of the amount of waste it prevents. They even help if you become overly conscious of the fishy smell that sometimes occurs during the monthly bleed.
Because a menstrual cup catches the uterine shedding before it is exposed to outside air, the blood doesn’t oxidize. It also allows for more airflow in the vaginal area than most single-use pads so it doesn’t get hotter or sweatier.
- What is a menstrual cup?A menstrual cup is a cup-like item usually made from body-safe silicone. It is meant to be inserted into the vagina during the menstrual cycle to collect the uterine sheddings.
- Are there disposable menstrual cups?Yes, there are disposable menstrual cups, but even those are more environmentally friendly than single-use pads or tampons. One disposable menstrual cup is meant to be used for an entire cycle versus a pad or tampon that has to be tossed immediately after use.
- Do menstrual cups hurt?Many people say that once the menstrual cup is inserted, they can’t even feel it. While insertion may be something you will need to get used to, there should be no pain involved.