Prototype menstrual cups began to appear in the 1930s, with the first patent filed in 1937 by American actress Leona Chalmers.
But it was only in recent years, with more modern and anatomical versions, that small “cups” made of silicone, rubber or latex, a practical and more sustainable alternative to disposable sanitary pads, gained space in women’s routine.
The container is shaped like a cup, and due to the malleable material, it does not cause any discomfort inside the vagina. “Another benefit reported by patients is that the shape of the cup cannot be seen in items such as bikinis or tight clothes such as leggings used for sports, but they do not generate waste like tampons”, points out Alexandre Pupo, a gynecologist at the Hospital. Syrian Libanês, in São Paulo (SP).
There are different size options, between 4 to 6 centimeters in length and 3 to 5 cm in diameter at the top. Larger versions are intended for people with heavier menstrual flow. Following simple medical guidelines for hygiene and good use, the product is completely safe and can last up to 10 years.
How to put the menstrual cup in the vagina?
Before being inserted into the vagina, the menstrual cup must be folded into two or three parts so that it then unfolds in the vagina on the inside of the vagina. There are several types of different shapes that can be tested so that the person finds the most comfortable way to use.
“The person can be sitting on the toilet or in bed, with legs apart and knees bent. If the vagina is very dry, insertion can be uncomfortable, so it is recommended to use some lubricant to help glide, especially in the first uses. Afterwards, you should move the lips away from the vagina and insert the object little by little into the canal. As soon as the collector is released, it opens. The tip is to turn a little clockwise to avoid any folds getting stuck” , explains gynecologist Gabriela Gallina, from Hospital Moinhos de Vento, located in Porto Alegre (RS).
In short, it should be placed as you would a tampon, with your finger helping it to be completely inside the vaginal canal. The main difference is that its function is to collect blood flow instead of absorbing it.
“When the vagina is not filled with anything, the walls of the organ are together, one against the other. Once inserted, the cup, which has an elastic band at its edge a little harder to keep it open, is attached to the wall. of the vagina expanding it subtly and creating a small concavity where it attaches”, says Pupo.
The cup can be used for a maximum of 12 hours in a row, but for those who have a very heavy menstrual flow, it is recommended to change it after 4 or 6 hours.
The intimate hygiene product has a small stem that helps the user locate it, but pulling it out can cause discomfort. “Because of the vacuum, trying to remove it through the rod may require a lot of force. The tip is to insert your finger to reduce the vacuum”, advises the gynecologist.
It may be more comfortable to remove the toiletry product while showering to prevent leaks, but it is also safe to remove the cup while sitting on the toilet.
“It is important to note that the first uses tend to be a little uncomfortable, it can take two or three attempts for the person to get used to the cup and find out what the most comfortable fit is. chicken.
How to clean the menstrual cup
Before the first use, a homemade sterilization must be carried out by boiling the object for 5 minutes with hot water on the stove or in the microwave. Many brands already offer a specific container for this sterilization.
During the cycle, sanitize with water and neutral soap between uses. When menstruation stops, do the same boiling process. Store in the container (usually a cloth bag) while not in use, and when the cycle starts again, boil the device in hot water again.
Does the menstrual cup pose health risks?
When properly sanitized, it is very safe to use a menstrual cup. If the object does not undergo proper cleaning, the risk of infections in the intimate area is increased.
“The body ends up coming into contact with microorganisms that can be harmful, such as fungi or bacteria. Conditions such as candidiasis and vaginosis, although not common, can appear. people who have recurrent pictures, since there is no direct contact with that blood that in the absorbent would stay in contact with the area for hours”, says Gallina.
The gynecologist Alexandre Pupo also warns about the choice of material. “People who are allergic to condoms should opt for a non-latex version.”
Do’s and Don’ts when you have a menstrual cup
The cup does not prevent urine from coming out normally. If there is a feeling of pressure, it could mean that the device has yet to enter a little further into the vagina canal.
It is also possible to use the collector without problems for patients who have the contraceptive method IUD (intrauterine device), since each one is in a different place – the IUD is inside the uterus and the cup must be placed inside the vagina.
The object cannot be kept inside the body during sex.
For patients who have never had sex, there is a more delicate version. “It is still little known for being a topic considered taboo”, says the gynecologist.
What are the pros and cons of using a menstrual cup?
The main positive point, in the opinion of the doctors consulted, is the sustainable nature of the product. A woman has about 450 cycles between her first and last menstruation, which means she needs to use approximately 7,200 disposable pads and spend up to R$6,000 to buy these products.
The average price of the menstrual cup, according to a survey carried out by BBC News Brasil among 10 brands, is R$ 69.90, and the device can last between 3 and 10 years.
“Another interesting issue is self-knowledge. As it is something that manipulates the genitals, this ends up creating tranquility in the personal contact of the body in an area that is considered a taboo, especially for women”, says Pupo.
In addition, the vacuum created by the collector prevents blood from coming into contact with the air and odors left in the panties.
As for the negative points, gynecologists point out that not all people can get used to handling the accessory.
Chad-98Weaver, a distinguished author at NewsBulletin247, excels in the craft of article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for storytelling, Chad delivers informative and engaging content that resonates with readers across various subjects. His contributions are a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field of journalism.
