It goes without saying that just about every woman wishes she didn’t have to deal with PMS each month. Not only are cramps, mood swings and bloating common challenges, so are the methods used to keep it in check - namely, tampons and pads. These two methods for dealing with menstruation have been around forever but with the creation of the menstrual cup, you may never want to look at a tampon or pad again.

As the name implies, the menstrual cup is an actual cup shaped instrument that acts as a barrier. This cup is worn inside of the vagina during menstruation and collects the blood. While many may not know about the menstrual cup, it has actually been around for quite some time. Back in 1932, the first bell-shaped menstrual cup was developed. Along the way, other versions of the menstrual cup were created and patented, as well as a disposable version in 1970. Unlike tampons and pads, the newer versions of the menstrual cup can be washed and reused for years.

There are currently two types of menstrual cups sold online and in stores around the world. The first is made of latex-free polyethylene and looks similar to the diaphragm used as a contraceptive. The second type of menstrual cup is shaped like a bell and made of either latex or silicone. The bell-shaped menstrual cup is reusable and can last for up to 10 years, while the first type is disposable.

Reusable menstrual cups come in two sizes to fit each woman’s body shape, while the disposable version is more flexible in terms of sizing. Compared to tampons and pads, the menstrual cup has a number of advantages but is not completely perfect. The greatest benefits include the ability for the cup to be worn up to 12 hours before emptying, can be worn while swimming or exercising, contain no harmful substances, is not prone to bacterial growth or other hygiene-related problems, does not cause dryness by absorbing other natural fluids, can be taken during travel, and does not cause Toxic Shock Syndrome. Some of the disadvantages include time needed to get used to inserting, wearing and removing the cup, properly washing the hands after inserting or removing, must be approved by a doctor for use with an IUD, and its inability to quickly become biodegradable. Disposable menstrual cups can be worn during sexual intercourse but the reusable ones cannot. It is important to know that the disposable cup is not a contraceptive device.

Over the years, the menstrual cup has been regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and no cases of Toxic Shock Syndrome or other potentially fatal conditions have ever been reported. However, some women have experienced yeast infections due to lack of cleanliness of their reusable cups. If you’re interested in trying the menstrual cup for yourself, you can look online for manufacturers to find the right brand and type of cup needed. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about using this product.

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