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Tampons and pads haven’t had the very best press these days, so it’s no shock should you’re contemplating a change to a unique interval product, comparable to a menstrual cup. Nonetheless, with analysis suggesting solely about 20 % of those that menstruate use cups, you might need a number of questions—like like whether or not they’re secure, easy methods to maintain them clear, and even easy methods to insert and take away them. Excellent news: we now have the solutions. Hold studying for every part you’ve ever needed to know earlier than making the change.
Extra Girls Are Utilizing Menstrual Cups
There are a lot of explanation why somebody may make the change. Other than the unsettling information about heavy metals in tampons, single-use interval merchandise contribute to environmental waste, add up in value and produce other well being issues, together with poisonous shock syndrome.
Cups, however, prevent tons of of {dollars} and kilos of waste. Plus, cups maintain extra circulate than a tampon or pad.
How Do I Know My Menstrual Cup Is Secure?
A high quality menstrual cup is designed to final upwards of a decade. With all that point inside our our bodies, they must be secure. Right here’s what to search for:
What Are Menstrual Cups Made Of?
Choices like Saalt, DIVA, Pixie and Rael cups are all constructed from a single ingredient: medical-grade silicone. Medical units are composed of this materials, which is examined for bio-compatibility and long-term security within the human physique. It may well solely be referred to as “medical-grade” after this intensive testing.
Nonetheless, not all menstrual cups meet the “medical-grade normal,” which is the most secure materials. Some cups comprise silicone with fillers, which can compromise their security and sturdiness. Others are fabricated from rubber, which may set off allergic reactions in people with latex allergic reactions.
Not All Cups Are Created Equal
When buying a menstrual cup, it’s vital to prioritize high quality over worth. “You positively need to do your analysis when selecting a cup; I’d completely not simply purchase an unbranded one off of Amazon, for instance,” explains Saalt CEO Cherie Hoeger. “It’s good to examine what they need to say about security, their lab assessments, their certifications. Not everyone seems to be FDA-certified, for instance. Not everybody has third-party testing.”
Hoeger notes that Saalt additionally holds a producing certification (ISO 13485 licensed) for medical gadget manufacturing, the best manufacturing normal for medical units. The DIVA Cup additionally has that ISO certification and was the primary menstrual cup firm to realize it.
When you’re uncertain the place to start when purchasing for a menstrual cup, contemplating one with ISO 13485 certification is a great selection. In any case, “That is such an intimate space and cups can final for years; it’s vital you get a top quality product,” Hoeger says.
First-Timer Ideas
When you’re a bit intimidated by utilizing a cup for the primary time, you’re not alone, however as Hoeger says, “It takes only one second of bravery to alter the way you method your interval perpetually.” The best technique of insertion is to fold the cup right into a C-shape. The C-shape is about the identical measurement as a tampon, which unfolds naturally as soon as positioned. As soon as inserted, menstrual cups create an air-tight seal, which stops leaks. Eradicating the cup is usually a little daunting, however you simply need to pinch the underside to interrupt the seal. You by no means wish to tug on the stem or ring backside. For extra, take a look at Saalt’s useful use information right here.
Which Menstrual Cup Is Proper for Me?
There are a number of totally different menstrual cup measurement choices and shapes. The disk, which sits larger within the vaginal canal and holds extra circulate, is really useful for these with weaker pelvic flooring. The disk additionally makes interval intercourse a mess-free expertise. However, small cups are perfect for first-time customers or these with lighter flows. Bigger-sized cups accommodate heavy flows and postpartum our bodies.
How Do You Clear a Menstrual Cup?
All menstrual cups ought to be sanitized earlier than first use. You are able to do this by boiling the cup for 3 to 5 minutes. DIVA stresses to not soak your cup in hydrogen peroxide, bleach, vinegar, rubbing alcohol or another harsh cleaning agent.
“You’ll wish to sterilize your cup earlier than and after your cycles by boiling it for 3-5 minutes, rubbing it with 70 % isopropyl alcohol or utilizing our Saalt Steamer ($39), which sanitizes it in three to 5 minutes,” Hoeger says. “Between cycles, simply rinse it with heat water and a fragrance-free cleaning soap, and re-insert.”
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