Article: The menstrual cup is a good option for women that exercise regularly. Some disposable cups can be worn during sexual intercourse.. The disposable menstrual cup is not a form of birth control and does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. The reusable cups are made of a more solid material and are not to be inserted or in place during sexual intercourse. Menstrual cups can be worn during physical exercise such as swimming, playing sports, or bicycling. The use of typical feminine hygiene products require changing every few hours. But menstrual cups can be in place for as long as 12 hours. In addition, menstrual pads can cause an odor since your flow is exposed to air. The menstrual cup collects the flow inside your vagina and prevents any problems with an odor. Provided you keep your cup clean, this method of managing your menstrual flow has a lower risk of infection. There is no change in the pH of your vaginal area with the use of a menstrual cup and there are no problems with tiny tears in the surrounding vaginal tissue, as can happen with the use of tampons. Changes in the pH and "micro-tears" can lead to bacterial infection. This is avoided with the use of a menstrual cup. The menstrual cups advertised and sold in the United States have been approved by the FDA. The FDA has deemed menstrual cups to be safe for use. Most companies use hypoallergenic and nontoxic materials in the manufacturing process. Some menstrual cups can be used safely by women with latex allergies. Check the product literature to be sure. Toxic Shock Syndrome has been linked to the vaginal use of tampons during menstruation. Toxic shock syndrome is a bacterial infection linked to problems with the use of tampons. There have been no reports of toxic shock syndrome reported due to the use of menstrual cups. Reusable cups save money and are considered to be eco-friendly. The purchase of a menstrual cup is more costly than purchasing a package of tampons or pads, but your menstrual cup purchase will last for years. The disposable cups are less costly than the reusable cups and are comparable in price to other feminine hygiene products, depending on where you shop. The reusable cups prevent the accumulation of feminine hygiene products that end up in landfills. Once you are comfortable with insertion and removal, using a menstrual cup is an easy way to take care of your monthly period. Every manufacturer offers step-by-step instructions on both insertion and removal contained within their product literature, available online at their product websites, and many offer YouTube videos to help with understanding the procedures. The cup is folded, then gently slid into the vagina aimed toward the back, then given a little push to secure it in place. Remove the cup by pinching the base, then pulling it out. Do not pull directly on the stem, since the cup is secured by suction. By pulling on the stem, you can cause injury to the surrounding tissues.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Know that you can wear your cup during physical activity. Have the freedom to extend your time between changes and eliminate odor. Be aware that menstrual cups reduce your risk of infection. Consider the safe regulation of menstrual cups. Avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome by using a menstrual cup. Save money and the environment when you use a reusable menstrual cup. Remember that menstrual cups can be easy to use.