Most women probably don’t know this but menstrual cups have actually been around longer than you think!
Quick history lesson: The first prototype was made back in the 1860s but never actually went to market, it was just a prototype. This “catamenial sack”, which is what it was originally called, was revisited in 1937. Unfortunately, many women couldn’t get behind the idea of reusing something that holds your period blood in a cup and it disappeared about 20-years later. It wasn’t until another 20-year cycle that the cup made a comeback and it has ridden a wave with improvements until now.
Many women today are still a little skeptical about the idea of the menstrual cup, so we went ahead and made a pro/con list for people who are unsure if buying a menstrual cup is the right move for them.
CONS
- They are not IUD friendly. If you really want to use a menstrual cup and you have an IUD, please ask your doctor about your options!
- If you thought you were up close and personal with your blood while wearing tampons, just wait until you have to clean out your menstrual cup.
- Trying to find the right cup size can require some trial and error. All vaginas are a little bit different meaning that every vagina might need a different style of cup. There are menstrual cups made for longer, shorter, wider cervixes. Be sure to do a bit of research and get to know your V a little more before dropping some cash on your cup.
- Removal can be tricky, especially if you are in a public restroom. We suggest that you schedule around your day so that you can remove it in the comfort of your own home.
- There is a higher upfront cost compared to pads and tampons BUT you will end up saving a ton of money in the long run.
PROS
- This is where the money saving comes in! Menstrual cups are reusable and last a really long time, 5-10 years actually.
- Tampons can’t be worn for longer than 8 hours and oftentimes they have to be changed 3-4 times a day when you have a heavy flow. But menstrual cups can stay in for up to 12 hours!
- Menstrual cups can be reused for years making them super eco-friendly. Tampons and pads cause so much waste and this is a great and way to help the planet.
