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Periodcups can be pretty polarizing.
Chelsea Kyle. Prop styling by Amy Elise Wilson at Sarah Laird.
It seems like people either evangelize about them from the rooftops, or they have alotof questions and apprehension.
Most brands claim you’re able to wear a period cup for up to 12 consecutive hours safely.
As such, theyve been touted as eco-friendly and money-saving alternatives to tampons and pads.
Period(who, full disclosure, serves as an ob/gyn ambassador for the Lunette period cup).
Heres everything you should probably know about period cups.
How do I pick the right period cup for me?
Size is the most important aspect of using a menstrual cup.
Other brands, like DivaCup, have more options, including one meant for total period beginners.
The larger sizes are typically designed for anyone who has a heavy flow or has everdelivered a baby vaginally.
All that said, these are just guidelines.
OK, how do I put this thing in?
That might sound wildly uncomfortable, but it shouldnt be.
But if you want to bereallysure its in there properly, you’re able to go exploring.
If you feel something like that anywhere outside the cup, you probably have it in wrong.
Your cup should come with its own set of instructions.
You might also want to experiment with different folding methods until you find one thats right for you.
After you insert your period cup, youll want to get in the habit of checking if its secure.
That leads us to our next question.
Why is it leaking?!
Try sizing up to see if that fixes the problem.
(We really werent lying when we said the most important thing was size.)
You might also have an issue with leaking if you havereally heavy periods.
Why might I want to choose a menstrual cup over tampons or pads?
Translation: Youll wind up spending less than you would regularly stocking up on tampons and pads.
Since menstrual cups arent absorbent, that could theoretically lower your risk.
Even when using tampons, your odds of getting TSS are already super low.
Why am I having trouble inserting my period cup?
A few things might be going on.
For one, you might still just be getting the hang of it.
No matter whats causing the trouble, if it persists, its worth hitting up your ob/gyn.
They can assess what might be going on or coach you through the proper insertion technique.
How do I stay sanitary?
A lot of brands sell special soap if youre into that, but theyre not required.
You might also want to get in the habit of carrying cleansing wipes.
You could also just use some unscented baby wipes.
Just see to it to wash it at your next available chance.
And of course, always, always wash your hands before touching your vagina or period cup.
Can I keep a period cup in while Im having sex?
But good news: Oral, anal, and external stimulation are all still on the table.
Can I use a period cup if I have an IUD?
Yep, totally safe!
Keep an eye on the string length throughout your period, too.
I THINK ITS STUCK.
WHAT DO I DO?
If that doesnt work, its likely because youre tensing yourpelvic floor muscles, says Dr. Ross.
Take a deep breath, let your body relax, and loop back and try, she advises.
[If] youre still having trouble, bear down as if you were pooping and itll ease out.
Whatever you do, dont tug at your period cup if theres resistance.
The negative suction by pulling can cause vaginal injuries sometimes, says Dr. Gupta.
While thats not incredibly likely, its best to steer clear of the risk.
If you still cant get it out, theres no shame in going to your ob/gyn for help.
You definitely wouldnt be the first.
SELF + JimmyJane Menstrual Cup Set
JimmyJane
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