Approximately 113,000 tonnes of menstrual waste accumulate every year in landfills in India. This menstrual waste comprises plastic, which takes many years to decompose, and harmful chemicals (bleach and dioxin) that are detrimental to the environment. Although menstrual cups have been around since the 1930s, they have found a big consumer market only since the 2000s. In India, only 1% of women use menstrual cups, primarily because of a lack of information, social taboos and certain myths.
Menstrual cups are a sustainable, healthy and safe alternative to tampons and sanitary pads. This article aims to provide an accurate account of menstrual cups underscoring their advantages and safety concerns to reduce the apprehension of women and ease the transition from tampons and pads to menstrual cups.
A menstrual cup is a small bell-shaped feminine hygiene product made of medical-grade rubber, latex or silicone. Unlike a tampon or a pad that absorbs your period flow, a menstrual cup is inserted into the vagina to collect the menstrual flow.
If you are using it for the first time, start with a small size. Remove the cup from the packaging, wash it with soap and water and dry it before use. Before inserting the cup, wash your hands with soap and water. Wet the cup rim or apply a water-based lubricant to insert it easily into the vagina. Fold the menstrual cup tightly with the rim on top using one of the following methods:
According to gynaecologists, insert the cup into the vagina in a squatting position, sitting on the commode or lifting one leg. The folded cup is inserted towards the tailbone at an angle of 45°C. Once the cup is inserted, it opens up and rests against the vaginal wall and seals it to prevent any leakage. The period flow is collected in the cup. If you feel uncomfortable or the cup has not opened properly, try to rotate the cup. When a menstrual cup is used correctly, you do not even feel it is there.
Wash your hands with soap and water. While in a sitting or squatting position, insert your thumb and index finger into the vagina to feel the stem of the cup. Do not pull the stem. A little further you will feel the cup base. Just pinch it to break the seal and remove it. If it does not come out using this method, use the pelvic floor muscles to push the cup down and remove it with the technique described above. Keep the cup upright to avoid spills and empty the contents into the toilet. Wash it with soap and water before reusing it.
Every time you empty the cup, rinse it with soap and water before reuse. Some companies provide special cleaning solutions. You must read the instructions to ensure you are cleaning the cup properly. After your period ends, you must wash the cup and sterilise it in boiling water. Usually, cups come with a reusable cloth bag or pouch for storage; otherwise, you may use a container to keep it clean and dry before the next cycle.
Menstrual cups can be stemmed or unstemmed. Stemmed cups have a stem that protrudes into the vagina. It is easy to remove these cups. Some women prefer unstemmed cups as the stems can make them uncomfortable and the stem may require trimming.
Menstrual cups come in two sizes:
Teenagers should use the smallest size available.
Menstrual cups are usually made of medical-grade silicone, latex or rubber. If you are allergic to latex, use silicone or rubber cups.
Many women in India are unaware of menstrual cups or how to use them. This lack of knowledge coupled with fear of inserting the cup into the vagina, lack of access and availability in pharmacies and local markets and scarcity of hygienic places for cleaning the cups are potential hurdles in adopting menstrual cups.
Women also fear being judged by peers for using menstrual cups, which further discourages them. There is a myth that once the cup is inserted into the vagina, it will get lost, which is incorrect. Women also believe that using menstrual cups will loosen and widen the vagina, which is untrue because the vagina is elastic and retains its natural shape after the cup is removed.
Even gynaecologists lack sufficient knowledge of menstrual cups. This deters women from using it as they have no one to guide them. Women need emotional support during initial menstrual cup usage.
Accurate information on the different types of cups, their available sizes and shapes and the guidance on sterilisation and storage must be made available so that women can choose the right fit for themselves.
Women should be educated that using menstrual cups involves a learning curve, where there is a possibility of feeling discomfort in the beginning. Providing realistic information and proper advertisement prepares women to make informed choices about the product. Accurate information also helps governments and NGOs who undertake initiatives to provide menstrual cups free or at reduced prices to make them affordable.
If you have questions or concerns about menstrual cup safety or usage, consult our expert gynaecologists at Kauvery Hospital. With branches in Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli, and Trichy, our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with accurate information and personalized care for all your menstrual health needs.
Menstrual cups are a safe and sustainable alternative to pads and tampons. They are eco-friendly, cost-effective, can be used for up to 12 hours and do not contain harsh chemicals.
Menstrual cups require practice to ensure correct insertion and sealing to prevent leakage. With regular use, women gain experience with the product. Women must understand that proper hygiene should be maintained while inserting, removing and cleaning the cup to avoid infection. Except for a few exceptions, all women, including teenagers, can use menstrual cups. Providing the proper education and awareness on menstrual cups can make them a woman’s friend and the future of menstrual hygiene.
What is a menstrual cup and how does it work? A menstrual cup is a reusable bell-shaped hygiene product made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, or latex. It is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. Unlike pads or tampons, it doesn’t absorb the blood—it collects it for up to 12 hours.
Are menstrual cups safe for daily use during periods? Yes, menstrual cups are safe for daily use when cleaned properly and inserted correctly. They are FDA-approved and made from medical-grade materials. With proper hygiene, they pose a low risk of infection or toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Can teenagers use menstrual cups safely? Yes, teenagers can use menstrual cups. Most brands offer smaller sizes designed for teens or first-time users. It may take practice to insert and remove, but with the right size and guidance, they are safe and effective.
How long can I wear a menstrual cup without emptying it? Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. On heavier days, you may need to empty it more often. Unlike pads and tampons, they offer longer protection without odor or leakage.
Can menstrual cups cause infections? Menstrual cups do not cause infections when used correctly. Always wash your hands before insertion or removal, clean the cup thoroughly, and sterilize it after each cycle to minimize any risk.
Is it hard to insert or remove a menstrual cup? It can take a few cycles to get used to, but most women find it easy with practice. There are several folding techniques to aid insertion, and removing the cup involves breaking the seal and gently pulling it out.
Are menstrual cups better than pads or tampons? Menstrual cups are more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. They don’t dry out the vagina like tampons and prevent rashes and discomfort often caused by pads.
Can I use a menstrual cup if I have an IUD? It’s best to consult your gynaecologist. While many women safely use both, improper removal of the cup might dislodge the IUD, so extra caution and professional advice are recommended.
What size menstrual cup should I choose? Choose a size based on age, childbirth history, and menstrual flow. Typically, small cups suit women under 30 who haven’t given birth, while large cups are for women over 30 or those with heavier flows.
How do I clean and store a menstrual cup properly? Rinse the cup with mild soap and water after each use. At the end of your cycle, sterilize it by boiling for 5–10 minutes. Store it in a breathable pouch (usually provided) until your next period.
Can menstrual cups get lost inside the body? No, menstrual cups cannot get lost in the body. The vagina is a closed canal, so the cup stays within reach and can always be removed with the right technique.
Are menstrual cups safe for women with sensitive skin or latex allergies? Yes, most menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, which is hypoallergenic. If you’re allergic to latex, avoid latex cups and opt for silicone or rubber alternatives.
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Vadapalani & Radial Road), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Radial Road – 044 40504050 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Maa Kauvery Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Kauvery Cancer Institute, Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 68011
