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In India, the most common feminine hygiene product during periods is a sanitary pad. However, there are several other options available in the market to deal with the monthly bleeding. One of the product you can use during your menstrual cycle is a tampon, which is cylinder-like shaped product that can be easily inserted into the vagina. Another product you can use is a menstrual cup. It is widely used product in many western countries and is an eco-friendly alternative to a tampon and pad. Made of latex rubber or silicon, menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup, which is inserted into the vagina to catch the menstrual blood. Once placed correctly in the vagina, the menstrual cup collects the blood. Most of the menstrual cups are reusable. You can remove the cup and sterilise it in boiling water for further use. Menstrual cups are available in the medical stores and grocery. So, here is your guide to using the menstrual. (ALSO READ How to use a tampon: Step-by-step guide to using a tampon during your periods).
Start by washing your hands with soap and water. You can also wash the menstrual cup with plain water to remove dirt or dust. Do not use soap on the cup. If you are using it for the first time, it is advisable to boil it.
Menstrual cup
The most common way to fold the cup is the C fold. The instruction manual provided with the menstrual cup package usually shows how to do the C fold but it may not be suitable for everybody as the anatomy of every woman is different and unique. Try different folds to make the insertion easier. Apart from the C fold, you can try the punch-down fold. For this, place your index finger on the rim of the cup and push it down.(ALSO READ How to get rid of pad rash: Tips to get relief from sanitary pad rashes during periods).
This is one of the most important steps. Try to relax your pelvic muscles as tensed muscles can make the insertion of the cup difficult. Try kegel exercise to practice tightening and loosening these muscles.
Hold the folded cup in one hand with the stem of the cup facing down. Now, use your other hand to find the opening of your vagina. Push the cup into the vagina at around 45 degree as it will be easier to insert. Once inside, the cup will pop open. Push it till the cup is comfortable inside your vagina. Make sure the cup is fully unfolded by reaching up and running your finger around the rim. The rim should be round or at least oval. You can use your finger to open it manually.
When the cup is in place, it will create a slight vacuum. This suction holds the cup securely and prevents leakage.
You can leave your cup inside for up to twelve hours. The frequency of emptying the cup also depends on the flow. You may need to empty it more often on the days with heavy flow. Learn how often you need to empty the cup with little experiment during your first few times with a menstrual cup.(ALSO READ How often do you need to change your sanitary towel or pad? Everything you need to know about menstruation and hygiene!).
Use your pelvic muscles (the muscles you use start and stop peeing) to lower the cup. Clean your hands, hold the stem and pull it down till you can reach the base. Now, pinch the base to break the vacuum and pull out the cup upright to lower the chance of spillage. You can also fold the rim of the cup (the same way you folded during insertion of the cup) to remove the cup. You can remove the cup over a toilet.
Throw the content of the cup in the toilet and rinse it with water. You can then sterilise the cup by boiling it in water or swabbing it with rubbing alcohol. You can then reuse it.
Menstrual cup
It takes time to get used to a menstrual cup. Try it out three to four times to see whether you are comfortable using the cup.(ALSO READ Foods to eat during Periods: Best and healthy foods to fight PMS and menstrual cramps).
Your cup is not inserted properly if there is a leakage or if the stem is protruding outside the vagina. You need to find the correct spot and practice to insert the cup properly. If you cup is not leaking then it is inserted properly
If your cup is not inserted properly then the stem may protrude out of the vagina. Another reason for this to happen is if your vagina is short and the cup is too long for it. You can trim it, insert it deep enough or buy another cup with shorter stem.
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