Save the planet and avoid the tampon tax
Menstrual cups have been growing in popularity recently, and for good reason. With one little cup, you can ditch single-use period products , as they’re designed to last 10 years. This also means you can save around £1,000 on tampons and pads too – not bad.
They can be worn for up to 12 hours and, unlike tampons, they’re chemical-free, meaning they’re safer for your body as well. If you’re intrigued, we’ve got the lowdown on using a menstrual cup – and found 10 of the best to buy.Well, it’s personal preference, really, but menstrual cups can hold more than even the largest tampons can and they’re reusable. Leakage-wise, one study shows similar or better performance compared to pads and tampons. They’re less likely to dry you out and cause irritation, too. “Different sanitary methods suit different people better, so it's really about finding what suits you best,” says Shree Datta, resident gynaecologist for menstrual cup brand . “It may be that you mix and match. When you're going to the pool, for example, you may feel more secure using a menstrual cup over a tampon.”Most brands say you can wear their cups between eight to 12 hours at a time, but you might need to empty it sooner, depending on the heaviness of your flow. You can also use them overnight, as long as you empty and insert it just before bedtime and change it once you're up the next morning. You can use it when exercising or swimming. If you have a coil, remember to change it with care.in the Lancet scientific journal recommends the use of period cups as a safe option for menstrual health.” There are a few things to think about, though. If you have a latex or silicone allergy, make sure you choose one that doesn’t contain these. There are many different types available, so always check their formulation. You should also avoid using a menstrual cup if you have thrush, a urinary tract infection, or any abnormal discharge. “If necessary, take a break for a cycle then come back to it,” says Shree. “It is unusual for a menstrual cup to trigger thrush but, like when using tampons, there’s a slightly higher risk of infection. Regular changes and cup care are vital.” Finally, remember that menstrual cups are not a substitute for contraception and should be removed before sex., take your time and make sure you’re in a relaxed environment, where you won’t be rushed. Wash your hands and empty your bladder before moulding and folding the cup and inserting it. Follow the direction of your vagina and make sure it doesn’t hurt. If it feels uncomfortable to insert, stop and retry in a few minutes. “It should sit high enough that you don’t feel it, but low enough in your vagina that it’s easy to take out,” says Shree. “If it helps, squat or bend your knee and place your foot at the edge of the toilet seat or bath.” There are several different ways you can fold a menstrual cup – these should be detailed in the box – but I recommend the punch down fold. It makes the smallest entry point, so it’s good for beginners, and it’s easy to do. Just pull the lip down inside the cup, towards the stem, then fold the sides round. Then you’re good to go!If it’s done properly, then you shouldn’t feel anything! I’m over 25 and I haven’t had children, and I tried thein both small and regular. Both fit fine so, while I can’t speak for women who have given birth, I’d say that if you haven’t, choose a size that corresponds with your flow. You might want to use a larger cup towards the beginning of your period and a smaller one at the end. The first time, inserting it felt odd, but it wasn’t difficult. I experienced no leaks whatsoever and I could only feel it one time, when I clearly hadn’t positioned it correctly. On occasion I struggled to remove it, but it was never actually stuck, so don’t panic – it’s obviously better that it has a strong seal than not fit securely. I love that using a menstrual cup means I won’t be caught short without a tampon again, and knowing that I’m doing one more thing towards reducing my personal plastic waste consumption also makes me feel better. Obviously, saving money by not having to buy single-use period products is a bonus, too. Overall, I’m sold. Using a menstrual cup is cost-effective, comfortable and more eco-friendly. It’s clear that I won’t be going back to using tampons any time soon.
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