Ive been using menstruation cups for the past three years, and I have to say, they are among the best inventions ever made. No more rashes, leaks, unpleasant smells, or discomfort. I had a little trouble when using a menstrual cup at first, but I eventually got used to it. To be honest, Ive encouraged many of my friends to use it, and always heard good things about it. According to a research, menstrual cups are reusable tampon alternatives that collect blood rather than absorb it. They are used by only 19% of people who menstruate, and largely by those in their 20s and 30s. 

What is Menstrual Cup? 

Its a little, flexible cup with a funnel form that you insert into your vagina to collect period fluids. It can be made of silicone or rubber. 

Because cups may hold more blood than other techniques, they are frequently used as a more environmentally friendly tampon substitute. Moreover, you can wear a cup for up to 12 hours, depending on how youre feeling. 

In India, reusable cup brands that are available are Sirona, Pee Safe, Carmesi, and I-active.  

Sizes 

Menstrual cups are available in two main sizes: small & large. 

Small is for people with light to medium flow, under 30 years old, or who havent given birth. 

Large is for people with heavy flow, over 30, or who have given birth. Additionally, some companies offer an extra-large size, which is larger than the L size.  

Most period cups are made of silicone, but some are made of rubber, so if youre allergic to latex, get one made of silicone. 

Types of Fold 

C or U fold: Press the cup between your fingers to make it flat, then fold it in half to make C or U shape before inserting. 

Punch down fold: Press the front rim of your cup down toward the base with your index finger, then fold it lengthwise and insert it. 

Sevenfold: Press the cup flat, fold one side downward to make the number 7, and then carefully insert it. 
Tampon roll: Press the cup flat, roll it lengthwise, and hold the rolls center while inserting. 

After inserting the cup inside your vagina, it will open. To produce an airtight seal, rotate the cup sideways. The cup shouldnt push too much inside your vagina. 

Pros 

They are affordable and environmentally friendly: Reusable cups can last up to 10 years and cost between Rs. 500 and Rs 1000. This eventually translates into less money and less garbage in landfills. 

They can stay in for a full twelve hours: Depending on your flow, tampons need to be changed every 4 to 8 hours. However, cups have a longer -life, making them suitable for overnight protection. 

Theyre easy to use: If youve used tampons, a vaginal ring, or a diaphragm for birth control, youll probably find them easy to insert, though some people find them difficult at first. 

Less odor is there: When menstrual blood encounters air, it might begin to smell. 

However, your cup creates a tight seal. 

Cons 

Finding the perfect fit might be challenging Cup sizes are based on factors like age, flow, and child-bearing history. Finding the ideal fit might still be difficult, particularly if you have a low cervix or a titled uterus. 

They might obstruct an IUD: Given the possibility of the menstrual cup pulling on the IUD or dislodging it, some manufactures advice against using one if you have one implanted.

They can be hard to insert or remove: They might be challenging to put in or take out, especially if youve never used a tampon or had sex. But you can get proficient with them. 

They need to be washed after every use: It may seem inconvenient to some but washing them after each usage is the only way to prevent infection. When a menstrual cup is worn, the risk of toxic shock syndrome is very low. 

If someone no longer wants to use pads or tampons, a menstrual cup can be an excellent alternative for period hygiene.

It is always advisable to familiarize yourself with the cup and read the instructions on the packaging before using it for the first time. Patience and persistence are essential when using a cup, as it may require multiple attempts to get it right.