Menstrual Cup: Why It's Better Than Tampon
Time says menstrual cups have been around since the 1930s yet its use has not been adopted as quickly as expected. Here are a few reasons that may prompt you to make the switch:
1. Healthier
Unlike tampons that need to be removed and replaced every eight hours, a menstrual cup can be worn for up to 12 hours, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Time says there is no need to worry about the growth of Staphylococcus aureus or other forms of bacteria when wearing the cup.
It does not contain any chemicals, bleaches, BPA, latex, dye or other additives, making them safer to use than tampons or sanitary napkins, says Buzzfeed.
According to Time, you just need to wash the device with soap and water to keep it clean. "I think there's this misconception about sterility versus clean," said Dr. Taraneh Shirazian, an assistant professor from Mount Sinai's Icahn School of Medicine.
Shirazian added, "The vagina itself is not clean...things can be clean and be introduced and you'll be fine. You won't increase your risk of infections."
2. Cheaper
The Huffington Post reports indicate that the average woman will use around 11,000 sanitary napkins. That is a lot of waste that will stay in landfills for years.
Buzzfeed estimates that a year's worth of tampons would cost approximately $30, the same price for a single menstrual cup. On the other hand, a single menstrual cup can last for a decade, leading to significant savings.
3. Last longer
According to the same source, a regular tampon can hold up to nine grams of liquid. Menstrual cups can hold as much as 28 grams.
For women who experience a heavy flow, the menstrual cup is more ideal.
4. Suffer fewer leaks
Leaks occur when your napkin or tampon shifts or is becomes saturated with liquid. Menstrual cups are designed to form a suction around the vaginal area.
If inserted properly, all the liquid should fall into the device. Skinny Mom describes the experience of removing the device as similar to using a toilet plunger.
5. Prevent rash
Wearing pads increase your chances of developing diaper rash. The design of the menstrual cup prevents chafing in unwanted areas, making your female parts free of rashes.
Would you like to find out what wearing a cup is like before buying? Marissa Gainsburg, a writer for Women's Health, laid out the gory details of her experience using a menstrual cup.