Eco-friendly menstrual products are menstrual products that are designed to have less impact on the environment than traditional menstrual products like pads and tampons.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a reusable silicone or rubber cup that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Menstrual cups are eco-friendly because they can be reused for several years, reducing waste.
How do i use a menstrual cup?
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Fold the menstrual cup: There are several folding methods you can use to insert the menstrual cup. The most common are the “C-fold,” where you fold the cup in half and then in half again to form a “C” shape, or the “punch-down fold,” where you push in one side of the cup to form a triangle shape.
- Find a comfortable position: You can sit on the toilet, stand with one foot on the toilet seat, or squat down to insert the menstrual cup.
- Insert the menstrual cup: Use your fingers to guide the folded cup into your vagina, with the opening facing upwards. Make sure the cup is fully inserted and sitting comfortably in your vagina. You may need to rotate the cup slightly to ensure it has opened fully and created a seal.
- Wear the menstrual cup for up to 12 hours: Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. You may need to empty it more frequently on heavier days.
- Remove and empty the cup: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before removing the cup. Gently pull on the stem of the cup to break the seal and remove the cup. Empty the contents into the toilet or sink and rinse the cup with water before reinserting it.
- Sterilize the cup: At the end of your period, sterilize the cup by boiling it in water for 5-10 minutes or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can virgins use a menstrual cup?
Yes – virgins can use a menstrual cup. The hymen is often thought of as a closed “door” that is “broken” when a person has intercourse for the first time. The hymen actually comes in various forms and virtually all of them have openings of varying degrees.