Buying a Menstrual Cup | How to choose and use a menstrual cup?
There are more and more choices of menstrual cup Moon Cup on the market. Some moon cups from Taiwan have different versions, such as standard version, short body version and lightweight version. How should I choose a menstrual cup for the first time online shopping?
Click to buy a menstrual cup?
5 key points shared by menstrual cup users, prospective menstrual cup users or novice users may wish to refer to:
- Note the length of the cervix
- Pelvic floor width
- Pelvic floor muscle strength
- More or less menstrual blood flow?
- menstrual cup material
1. Cervical length
Pay attention to the length when choosing a menstrual cup. When menstruation comes, the distance from the cervix to the vaginal opening will be different from usual. First place your finger in the vagina and find out the distance from the opening of the vagina to the cervix. If the distance between more than two fingers is "high cervix", choose a menstrual cup with a longer body for easy removal. Just two fingers is a normal cervix, and less than two fingers is "low cervix". A shorter menstrual cup.
If you can't judge, you can choose a cup with a short body and a long handle first.
2. Pelvic floor width
Whether it is a natural birth or a caesarean section, the pelvic floor muscles will relax to prepare for the baby, so the strength of the pelvic floor muscles may indeed decline due to childbirth and age. And 40 - 48 mm is a more common cup width, and some brands have menstrual cups with a width less than 40 mm. But in fact, exercise and even individual differences can also affect the strength of the pelvic floor muscles, so it does not mean that you need to choose a menstrual cup with a wider cup body after childbirth, and you should choose according to your personal situation.
3. Pelvic floor strength
If you have exercise habits or have strong pelvic floor muscles, it is recommended to choose a cup with a harder material. Those with sensitive bladders or weak pelvic floor muscles may choose cups with softer materials.
3. More or less menstrual blood flow?
When the size is suitable, it can be considered according to the menstrual blood flow. For women with heavy menstruation, consider choosing a Moon Cup with a large capacity to reduce the number of replacements.
4. Menstrual cup material
Pay attention to the material of the menstrual cup, if you are allergic to silicone, you can choose TPE or rubber material.
5 Steps to Safely Place Your Menstrual Cup
- Gently and thoroughly cleanse hands with a mild cleanser for 20 - 30 seconds.
- Fold the cup in whatever way is most comfortable for you.
- Hold the cup with two fingers, separate the labia with the other hand, and slowly slide the cup into the vagina. Generally, the vagina will be in a moist state during menstruation, and it should be easier to put in the menstrual cup than during non-menstrual periods. If you really can't put it in, it is recommended to use water-based lubricating fluid to assist. In addition, it is recommended that the cup be folded downward for easier use.
- After placing the menstrual cup, release your fingers to let the cup unfold. If it is not fully unfolded, you can gently pull the cup handle to adjust.
- The cup that is fully unfolded and placed under the cervix can hold menstrual blood without leaking out.
4 Steps to Safely Remove Your Menstrual Cup
- After 4 - 8 hours each time, take it out and clean it once (no longer than 12 hours).
- Before removing, wash hands gently and thoroughly with a mild detergent.
- Slide your fingers into the vagina and pinch the lower half or edge of the cup to release the vacuum that holds the cup to the cervix.
- Hold the ring (or cup handle) with your fingers and gently shake the cup body left and right, then pull it out to take it out.
Menstrual Cup Cleaning Tips
The cleaning of the menstrual cup is very important. Before and after use, put it in boiling hot water for 3-5 minutes to sterilize it, and let it cool before using it. During the menstrual period, it is recommended to take it out every 12 hours and wash it with water and soap.
Easy to use menstrual cup while away from home
If you go to the bathroom outside, it is recommended to carry a small bottle of clean drinking water and clean the cup on the toilet. The same menstrual cup can be reused after being thoroughly cleaned. The same product is only for personal use and not shared with others.
Photos and information: goodmoonmood, intimina, heho