Sustainable Periods with the Period Cup
Save Money, Reduce Waste and Be Eco Friendly!
Period cups have been around since the 1930s. I started using one about six years ago and wanted to share my experience. When I first learnt about the period cup, I was intrigued. I was on this new adventure of transitioning our home and lifestyle to a zero-waste and more eco-friendly lifestyle. I read an article that 8 million tampoons and 12 billion maxi pads are used and disposed of annually. That's an enormous amount of waste, not to mention the money spent on buying them!
A period cup is better for the environment because you're not creating any waste while using it. A reusable period cup can help you have a sustainable and zero-waste period by reducing your use of tampons and pads by 99%.
If you're interested in going green with your feminine hygiene products, read on to learn how to have a zero-waste period with the easy-to-use period cup.
What is a period cup?
A period cup is an eco-friendly, reusable menstrual product that collects your monthly flow rather than absorbing it. The cup is inserted into the vagina during menstruation and usually stays there for 4 -12 hours, depending on how heavy your flow is. Menstrual cups can last for several years. It's recommended that you replace your cup every 2-5 years before disposing of it; no wrappers means less waste! They're also great because they can be used when working out or swimming. Plus, they're made of silicone, so they don't have any harmful chemicals as tampons do! Did you know that some brands of tampons contain volatile compounds, including reproductive toxins, toluene, xylene, carcinogens, and methylene chloride? Methylene chloride is commonly found in paint strippers. I don't know about you, but I don't want that near my vagina. Also, tampons can contribute to the growth of certain harmful bacteria and can cause tiny abrasions when removed, especially if blood flow is light.
Advantages of using a period cup
A period cup is an affordable, eco-friendly option that is much better for the environment. Not only does it help cut down on waste, but it also saves you money in the long run. Depending on the brand of period cup you choose, the cost can range from $25 to $65. One thing I learned after I started using a period cup is that it's easy to use! It takes practice before you get used to inserting and removing your cup, but it gets easier each month. Keep your nails a shorter length around your menstrual cycle, as it's less uncomfortable when removing your cup. Before storing your cup after your monthly flow, wash it well with water and gentle soap, put it back in its box and set it aside until next month!
There are many brands of eco-friendly menstrual cups. I recommend Saalt menstrual cups. Saalt period cups come in two sizes, regular and small, and both sizes are available in two firmness levels.
How to use a period cup
I like to rewash my cup before inserting it, even though I thoroughly wash it before I store it way after my cycle.
Wash your hands before handling the menstrual cup.
Pinch and fold the menstrual cup, so it becomes small enough for insertion into your vagina; this may take some practice! I like to insert my cup while it's still slightly wet.
Insert into your vagina, ensuring it sits low in your vaginal canal so you can feel it when you're ready to remove it. It should sit a few inches below your cervix. Once the cup is in your vagina, rotate it. This will open the cup, creating an airtight seal that stops leaks.
How to change and clean a period cup
Wash your hands before removing your cup.
Remove the menstrual cup and pour blood into the toilet.
Wash the cup with warm water and gentle soap.
Reinsert the menstrual cup while it's still slightly wet.
Wash your hands.
Changing your cup in the comfort of your home will be easier than being out in public or in your work office restroom. My advice is this, periods are normal, and we as women shouldn't be embarrassed about our flow. Remove and empty the cup like you usually would, reinsert the cup and continue about your day. I also like to carry biodegradable, non-toxic feminine wipes at all times, especially when I'm menstruating. It makes changing and cleaning myself easier. If you prefer to be more discreet about changing and cleaning your cup while in public, use a spray bottle to clean your cup and reinsert it.
For centuries, the menstrual cycle has been seen as a source of shame and embarrassment for women. But with the introduction of period cups, women can now take ownership of their bodies and menstrual cycles safely and hygienically. Period cups are becoming more widely available and accessible to all women, allowing them to manage their periods without relying on disposable products that are expensive and bad for the environment. With period cups, women can save money and feel empowered to take control of their self-care needs.
