For centuries, women have been using traditional products like pads and tampons to manage their periods. However more women have started to use menstrual cups during their period as they look for a more sustainable alternative to pads and tampons.
What is a menstrual cup?
Also known as a period cup, menstrual cups are small, flexible cups that are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid during your period. They hold way more than tampons and don’t affect the pH of your vagina in the same way that non-organic pads and tampons do. They’re made of plastic and are soft, flexible and easy to use.
When it’s time to take it out, you just empty it, clean it off and then reinsert it and carry on with your day. They’re designed to be reusable and come in different sizes for different times in your cycle. There’s no waste, just a comfy period that’s handled without leaks, stress or lots of period products ending up in landfill.
We love the Hello Cup. Made in New Zealand, it’s designed by a nurse and made from super safe, medical grade TPE that’s soft to the touch. They’re hypoallergenic, recyclable and free from silicone, rubber, latex or BPA’s, so they’re safe for your body. There’s a reason why Cosmopolitan has named it as the best menstrual cup out there.
Why switch to a menstrual cup?
If you're still on the fence about whether or not to try a menstrual cup, here are some reasons to consider the switch:
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Environmental impact: Disposable menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, generate a significant amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. According to the Women's Environmental Network, a single woman can use over 11,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime. Menstrual cups, on the other hand, are reusable and can last for up to 10 years with proper care, significantly reducing waste.
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Cost-effective: Although menstrual cups may seem expensive at first, they can save you money in the long run. The average woman spends hundreds of dollars on disposable menstrual products over her lifetime. In comparison, a Hello Cup costs £26 and can last for up to 10 years.
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Comfort: Menstrual cups are made of soft, flexible materials that are designed to fit comfortably inside the vagina. Unlike pads and tampons, menstrual cups don't cause irritation or dryness, making them a more comfortable option.
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Convenience: Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, which means you can go about your day without worrying about changing your tampon or pad every few hours. Additionally, menstrual cups are easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient option for women on-the-go.
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Health benefits: Menstrual cups are made of medical-grade silicone or latex, which means they're free from harmful chemicals that can be found in traditional menstrual products. Menstrual cups also don't disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, which can help prevent yeast infections.
Menstrual cups are a great alternative to traditional menstrual products. They're environmentally friendly, cost-effective, comfortable, convenient and health neutral. With a little practice and patience, you might decide to totally change your period care routine