In the United States, an estimated 10% of menstruating individuals have opted for menstrual cups as their preferred period management tool. These small, bell-shaped devices, designed to collect menstrual blood using a slight suction, are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional sanitary products. However, proper usage and care are vital to prevent any health complications. A recent case involving a Danish woman highlights the importance of using menstrual cups correctly. She experienced pain and blood in her urine due to an improperly placed cup.
Though menstrual cups offer numerous benefits, they require thorough cleaning between uses to prevent bacterial buildup. The Alliance for Period Supplies emphasizes the necessity of cleanliness, noting that "this can be time-consuming and requires access to clean water and a cleaning solution, such as mild soap or a specialized cup cleaner." Proper hygiene is essential to ensure the device remains safe for continued use.
In rare cases, incorrect placement of a menstrual cup can cause complications. The case of the Danish woman demonstrates this, as her condition was documented in a BMJ report. She suffered from pain in her right side, lower abdomen, and had blood in her urine—symptoms attributed to the pressure exerted by the improperly placed menstrual cup on her ureter, the tube that drains urine from the kidney to the bladder.
Despite these risks, many users find menstrual cups convenient as they can be worn for up to 12 hours before needing to be emptied, cleaned, and reinserted. However, they may pose challenges in public restrooms where users require access to clean water and privacy for rinsing and reinsertion.
The initial experience with menstrual cups can be daunting. About one in four women report difficulties during their first use, though comfort usually improves by the third cycle. This discomfort is partly due to anatomical differences among individuals, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution for period products. Various insertion techniques like the C-fold, 7-shape fold, or half-diamond fold are available to help users find the most comfortable fit.
LoPiano, a menstrual health advocate, explains that "most people have no pain once they learn how to use it," emphasizing the importance of choosing the correct shape and size. She adds that "if you are feeling any pain or significant discomfort, it is most likely being placed wrong or is too large or small." The device should sit just below the cervix, lower than a tampon but not noticeable outside the body.
To aid in removal, most cups feature a stem at their base. Baldonieri, another expert in menstrual health, advises that this stem "should sit just inside the vaginal opening so it is not visible once placed." Users are encouraged to experiment with different folding techniques and positions to find what works best for them.
Menstrual cups are predominantly used by those in their 20s and 30s. According to LoPiano, "recent studies show menstrual cups are used by 19% of those who menstruate." However, Baldonieri notes that usage rates vary globally—from 7% among Turkish menstruators to approximately 23% among Brazilian undergraduate students.
Prip, a researcher in menstrual health, underscores the need for increased awareness about potential complications and symptoms. She states that "we need more awareness about possible complications and the presenting symptoms of these complications, both among menstrual cup users and clinicians." This includes understanding how different insertion methods and cup sizes can affect comfort and safety.
For those experiencing any discomfort or pain with menstrual products, Baldonieri recommends consulting an OB/GYN. She emphasizes that "periods are as unique as the person experiencing them," advocating for individuals to choose options that are most comfortable for them.
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