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As women we can all probably agree on one thing: being on your period is a pain. It’s inconvenient, sometimes painful, and it can be expensive! Pads and tampons have been the go-to for decades. However, there are other options. While getting your period may be a relief (no worry over a pregnancy test), maybe you’re ready to consider something other than a pad or tampon, like menstrual cups and discs.
There are a few benefits of using a cup or a disc:
1. They are typically made from medical grade silicone, rubber, or other materials which are much softer and more flexible than ordinary pads and tampons. They are also known to be more comfortable and cause less irritation and dryness.
2. Longer wear time. You can wear menstrual cups and discs for up to 12 hours at a time depending on your flow.
4. Menstrual Cups and discs do not expose menstrual blood to the air. This helps reduce the odor that is usually associated with pads and tampons.
3. Leak prevention. It can be horrifying when you bleed through your pad or tampon onto your pants. One great thing about menstrual cups and discs is that they create a seal which can be more effective at preventing those pesky leaks.
This can provide some comfort when engaging in activities like swimming and sports.
5. Menstrual cups and discs are considered safe to use as they do not have any chemicals, fragrances, or additives and have been shown to not affect the pH of the vagina.
6. The reusable options are eco-friendly. There is less waste which has a positive impact on the environment.
7. The reusable options are also more cost-effective. There may be an upfront cost of $20-$40 but they can last up to 10 years.
There are some drawbacks to cups and discs. There is a learning curve. Unless you’ve been introduced to them early, these products may seem intimidating or strange.
For menstrual cups, click here for instructions and here for video instructions. For menstrual discs, click here for video instructions.
Some people find they cannot get a great fit with a cup and instead choose a menstrual disc.
It’s important to know your body well and find what works best for you. There are instructions for use in each package, but it is also a good idea to get checked out by your doctor especially if you are going to be sexually active.
If you’re reading this, then you are probably thinking about your sexual or reproductive health. It is important to know that menstrual discs and cups do NOT prevent pregnancy. They also do NOT prevent STIs or STDs.
If you are sexually active, you should consider getting STI testing.
One thing that may be scarier than getting your period, is NOT getting your period. If you find that your monthly friend has skipped her visit this month, you may want to consider getting a pregnancy test, too.
Alcove Health Women’s Clinic, in Virginia, provides pregnancy testing and STI testing; both for free. Our skilled nurses and advocates want to help you know more about your body and help you feel truly empowered in the process.
Your reproductive health is so important. There is a lot of information out there and it can be confusing, but the women at Alcove Health are here to help. Call or click here to request your free and confidential medical appointment at our Newport News clinic today.
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