Menstruation brings alongside interval ache, temper swings and meals cravings. Whereas sanitary pads are nonetheless favoured by a variety of girls, interval merchandise reminiscent of menstrual cups and discs have additionally gained recognition for his or her comfort and security of use and for being earth-friendly. However which one is simpler? Learn on to know the professionals and cons of menstrual cups and discs earlier than taking a choice.

What’s a menstrual cup?

Menstrual cup is a reusable interval product. It’s a small, versatile funnel-shaped cup fabricated from medical-grade rubber or silicone that you would be able to insert into the vagina to catch and gather interval fluid.

Advantages of utilizing a menstrual cup

1. Eco-friendly

Menstrual cups can endure for years with cautious care not like disposable pads and tampons which considerably improve waste. This makes it a extra sustainable possibility by reducing the environmental influence of menstrual waste, in accordance with a 2022 examine revealed within the Cureus Journal.

2. Protected for longer durations

Menstrual cups can maintain extra blood than different merchandise reminiscent of tampons and sanitary pads, to allow them to be worn for as much as 12 hours, relying on the move, which implies fewer adjustments all through the day, as per a 2019 examine revealed in The Lancet journal.

3. Value-effective

Menstrual cups are moderately priced. Whereas the preliminary price could also be increased than buying disposable merchandise, the long-term advantages are important. With cautious upkeep, a single menstrual cup can final for years, eliminating the necessity for month-to-month pad or tampon purchases.

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4. Full leak safety

Menstrual cups, when used accurately, are fairly profitable in stopping leakage during times. This may be particularly useful for actions reminiscent of swimming, figuring out, or travelling. So, you possibly can swim with a menstrual cup, and even journey, and do intense exercises.

Disadvantages of menstrual cup

1. Troublesome to search out the right dimension

It may be tough to pick out the suitable menstrual cup dimension and form. Some customers might have to strive a number of manufacturers or sizes earlier than discovering one that matches nicely and prevents interval leaks.

2. Results in potential discomfort

If not inserted accurately, it could trigger discomfort and even ache. So, it requires a variety of endurance and follow to insert the menstrual cup to keep away from discomfort or ache.

3. Messy removing

It is perhaps messy to take away a menstrual cup, particularly for first-timers. Spills and leaks would possibly occur if eliminated carelessly, which may trigger discomfort.

What’s a menstrual disc?

A menstrual disc is one other kind of menstrual product that collects menstrual blood. It’s bigger and sometimes worn on the base of the cervix, behind the pubic bone.

Benefits of utilizing menstrual disc

1. Protected for intercourse

Some sorts of menstrual discs could be worn throughout intercourse with out leakage, not like the menstrual cups. So, it’s a good and protected technique to have intercourse during times, says the skilled.

2. Comfy

Some customers discover discs extra snug than cups as a result of their positioning. Discs sit within the vaginal fornix and lay snugly behind the pubic bone to remain in place. Not like menstrual cups, they don’t use suction, and their efficacy shouldn’t be depending on the energy of the pelvic ground muscle groups.

3. Works for heavy move

Discs typically have a better capability than cups, making them appropriate for heavy move days. In response to a 2023 examine revealed within the BMJ Sexual and Reproductive Well being journal, check outcomes confirmed that menstrual discs held essentially the most blood at 61 ml as in comparison with the absorption of sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. So, when you’ve got heavy durations then use menstrual discs.

4. No messy removing

A menstrual disc is eliminated by pushing it out horizontally. This disc could be eliminated to cut back the prospect of spills by hooking a finger underneath the rim.

Disadvantages of menstrual discs

1. Restricted choices

There are fewer manufacturers and types of menstrual discs in comparison with cups. Additionally, menstrual discs are usually not as frequent or common, so the primary alternative of most girls who need a reusable product tends to be the cup.

2. An infection threat

Good hygiene is crucial to decrease the prospect of an infection, similar to any interval product. Earlier than dealing with the disc, wash your fingers in accordance with the cleansing tips supplied by the producer.

Selecting between a menstrual cup and a disc will depend on private choice, life-style, and luxury degree. If consolation throughout intercourse and excessive capability are priorities, a disc could also be preferable. Nonetheless, if eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness are extra vital, a menstrual cup is perhaps the higher alternative.