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Menstrual Cups Vs. Tampons
Menstrual cups are finally becoming more mainstream. People are ready to say goodbye to tampons and pads and are happily embracing the flexibility and ease of using these period cups. Although some reports claim these cups date back to the 1860s, the advantages of menstrual cups appeal to the modern-day period-haver.
If you’re ready to try out a menstrual cup, there are a few things to consider first. Marco Mouanness, MD, OB-GYN, and fertility expert at Rejuvenating Fertility Centre, reminds people that it can take some trial and error, so be ready to experiment to find your perfect fit. “Get familiar with your anatomy,” he recommends. “It might take a bit of time, but when you find the fit, it will be worth it.”
Sandy Dorcelus, DO, an OB-GYN at NYU Langone Hospital, Long Island, offers up similar advice to those who want to try a menstrual cup. “Do your research and practice inserting and removing it,” she says. “They all function pretty much the same way.”
With that, here are some of the best menstrual cups to try, what to consider when choosing one, and how to pick one.
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What to consider before buying a menstrual cup
Check the material
Dr. Mouanness says to make sure you are not allergic to any of the materials in the product. Most are either rubber, silicone, or latex. Read the fine print before purchasing.
Choose a cup that is easily removable
Opt for cups that feature rims and grips, Dr. Mouanness suggests. This may make it easier to insert and remove the cup.
Size matters
Most menstrual cup brands have two sizes, small and normal. But some brands might offer three sizes: one for women under 30 or those who have never had kids, another for the majority of women, and a larger size for women over 35 who have given birth, as they might be at risk for heavier bleeding than younger women or those who have never given birth, Dr. Dorcelus says. Opting for the right size depending on your needs and anatomy is key.
Dr. Mouanness adds that some brands may offer narrow or wide options. People might want to consider buying more than one size menstrual cup to use at different times in their cycle.
(Related: 12 Period Mistakes You’re Making Every Month)
