Menstrual cups are a better alternative to tampons and pads. They are not only cheaper and environmentally friendly but are also easy to use. The cups maintain good bacteria and vaginal pH and allow for more time between changes.
However, like most things in life, menstrual cups aren't created equally - they vary in a range of ways - the same way human needs do. That's why you cannot settle for the first option that comes your way. You need to compare options to find out what works and what doesn't.
There's a lot of information online about menstrual cups and it's important to use the authoritative sources when it comes to choosing a menstrual cup. This article is very long but it was the only one that covered everything about the topic.
Here are some key points when it comes to choosing a menstrual cup:
Get familiar with your anatomy
We are all created differently, and so are our cervixes. Some of us have high cervixes, while others, low. That's why you want to take time to understand your anatomy before embarking on your shopping endeavor. The good news is that knowing your cervix isn't rocket science - it can be as easy as touching it and feeling some parts (see the description on how to do it below).
A menstrual cup may not fit correctly or comfortably if you have a low or abnormally shaped uterus. In this case, you may need to find a cup that is specifically meant for your type of cervix. Note that this may take several cups before you get one that works for you. Finding out whether the cup folds or not is also a great way to determine whether it will feel snug. Better yet, you can measure your cervix with the following steps:
- Clean your hands
- Lift one leg up to the side of a bathtub or toilet seat - or squat to the ground
- Insert a finger into the vagina - preferably the longest one
- Try finding around, raised part that feels like the tip of your nose
If you insert your entire finger before touching the cervix, or if you don't touch anything at all when the full finger is inside, then you have a high uterus. But if you feel the cervix when the longest finger is just halfway through, then you have an average low.
Uncover the production materials
In addition to understanding the size and shape of your pelvis, you want to find out the type of material that was used to produce the menstrual cup. The reason behind this is so you can avoid any reactions - in case you have allergies or skin sensitivities. Knowing the material also allows you to get the best possible quality out there. Menstrual cups can be crafted from a range of materials, including silicone, rubber, and latex.
Your age
Another essential aspect to consider when choosing a menstrual cup is your age. If you are a young woman aged 30 and below and haven't delivered vaginally, you may consider getting a smaller menstrual cup. However, if you are over 30 years old and have given birth vaginally, then larger sizes are more recommended. Larger sized-cups are also a great option if you experience heavier periods.
Whether or not you have a heavy flow
As mentioned earlier, you may need a larger cup when you experience heavy flow and are over the age of 30. However, you could still go for a small-sized cup if your flow is light. But then again, that shouldn't mean that you do away with the larger size if you feel comfortable using it. It's all about finding something that fits right and works fine for you. Most companies provide recommendations, but that's to guide you. In the end, it all boils down to your comfort.
The feel and rigidity
The firmness of the menstrual cup can differ from brand to brand. It's, therefore, crucial to take time to assess the firmness of the cups before purchasing it. Generally speaking, softer cups are usually more comfortable since they don't place outward pressure - but they are tougher to manage while inside. Firm ones, on the other hand, may not be as gentle and comfortable as the softer ones but are firmer and easier to open inside. The type you choose, therefore, will depend on your preference and whether or not you have bladder sensitivities or period cramps.
Take up some online quizzes
Taking an online menstrual cup quiz to find the right cup is becoming very popular in the menstrual cup world. Lucky for you, different experts have combined their vast menstrual cup knowledge and the understanding of human bodies to come up with questions that can help point you to the right menstrual cup for your activity level, history, age, body, and more, so you don't have to. Some questions to expect include your age, whether or not you've carried a baby to term and gave birth vaginally or through C-section, your activity levels, size of your cervix, average menstrual flow, and so on.