Sustainable Periods with Menstrual Cups
Imagine a life where you don't have to pop into the store every month to pick up sanitary products. Less mess, less fuss, less worrying about using products with chemicals that might have adverse health effects.
That's where the menstrual cup comes in. An alternative to tampons and sanitary pads, is it worth the hype?
The Origins of the Menstrual Cup
The concept of menstrual cups can be traced back to well over a century, but the modern version we know today has its origins in the mid-20th century. Some sources cite that in 1867, a device called a "catamenial receptacle" was patented by an American inventor. This device was created out of rubber and designed to collect menstrual flow. At the time however, due to societal norms, the invention didn’t receive much attention.
It wasn't until the 1950s and 1960s that a more recognisable version of the menstrual cup emerged. Today, menstrual cups are popular and normalised – a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposable products.
How does it work?
Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, latex or rubber and they're designed to be reusable. The cup is inserted into the vagina, where it collects menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it.
This fundamental difference offers numerous benefits. Unlike tampons and sanitary pads, which can cause dryness and discomfort, menstrual cups are non-absorbent and maintain the natural pH balance of the vagina.
With sanitaries, there’s also the risk of allergies or sensitivities to the materials used in pads or tampons, which can cause discomfort, itching or rash. Then there’s toxic shock syndrome (TSS), which is rare but a serious bacterial infection that can be associated with tampon use, especially if tampons are left in for too long. It's important to follow recommended tampon usage guidelines to minimise this risk.
Menstrual cups, on the other hand, can typically be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on the flow, offering a longer wear time compared to traditional products.
Inserting and removing a menstrual cup may seem intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes as easy as inserting a tampon. The cup should be folded and gently inserted, then it will unfold and create a seal against the vaginal walls, preventing leaks. To remove it, simply pinch the base to break the seal and empty the contents into the toilet. After each cycle, the cup should be sterilised before the next use.
Perks of a Cup
One of the most compelling reasons to switch to a menstrual cup is its positive impact on the environment. Disposable pads and tampons contribute significantly to the plastic waste crisis, while menstrual cups produce virtually no waste. A single cup can last for several years, potentially replacing thousands of disposable products over its lifespan. Using menstrual cups can truly contribute to a healthier planet.
It's not just about being kind to the planet (although that’s a great outcome) – menstrual cups are also a smart way to save some serious cash. Sure, you might spend a bit more upfront compared to buying a box of tampons, but the savings down the line are totally worth it. Think about this: one menstrual cup can stick around for years, while we usually shell out a good chunk of change on disposable stuff every year. So, it's not just a green move, it's a wallet-friendly one too!
Menstrual cups aren't just a fad - they're all about making periods easier on the planet and on you. Instead of having to buy monthly menstrual pads or tampons, menstrual cups offer a comfier, convenient, and budget-friendly way to handle your period.
Plus, you get to do your part in being eco-friendly. In a world that's more and more into saving the environment, menstrual cups are a smart and creative change in an industry that used to be all about waste.
So, why not give them a try? Speak to your doctor about your options and give it a test run.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.