Menstrual cups are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional period products like pads and tampons. Unlike disposable options, menstrual cups offer various health, environmental and financial benefits.

What is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a flexible cup made of medical-grade silicone that is inserted into the vagina during a woman's period to collect Menstrual Cups blood. Most cups hold up to 2-3 times more fluid than a regular tampon, meaning less frequent emptying is required. Cups come in different sizes - it's important to choose the right size based on your pelvic floor muscles and whether or not you have given birth vaginally. Cups are collapsed to insert and expand once inside the vagina to create a seal. They must be emptied at least twice a day but can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time.

Benefits for Health and the Environment

Unlike tampons which absorb fluid, menstrual cups collect menstrual fluid without absorbing it. This means there is no risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome which is caused by a bacterial infection. Pads contain chemicals and bleach which some believe can irritate sensitive skin during periods. Using a cup avoids direct contact with these materials. Additionally, menstrual cups are made of medical-grade silicone which is non-porous, hypoallergenic and latex-free.

From an environmental perspective, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years with proper care - meaning one cup replaces over 1,200 disposable pads or 3,000+ tampons in its lifetime. This significantly reduces landfill waste and avoids putting millions of applicator tampons, pads and panty liners into waterways and oceans each month. Several studies estimate that using a cup full-time can reduce an individual's carbon footprint equivalent to not driving over 700 miles each year.

Menstrual cups are gaining popularity as a reusable, affordable and eco-conscious alternative to traditional menstrual products. By providing leak-free protection for up to 12 hours and lasting years with proper care, cups significantly reduce waste and costs over a lifetime. With practice, most women find cups as easy or easier to use than other period solutions. Their non-absorptive design also creates hygienic benefits. For those wanting to reduce their environmental footprint or monthly period budget, menstrual cups deliver a smart choice. 

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