The menstrual cup has been a game-changer in the menstrual hygiene industry. However, the stigma and misconceptions about menstrual cups are still an ongoing aspect. Menstruation hygiene has been a part of the life of individuals having a uterus for ages, yet it is something that many people don’t appreciate talking about. The journey of menstrual hygiene products has come a long way from cloth rags to sanitary napkins to menstrual cups; nonetheless, the myths and stigma associated with them are still there.
Menstrual Cup Myths
Let us discuss the menstrual cup myths and find out whether they are true or not:
- Menstrual cups are unhygienic: Menstrual blood is considered to be dirty and unhygienic. When using a menstrual cup, it is required to discard the collected menstrual blood for further use. The idea of reusing the same menstrual cup can be unusual for some people as they despise contact with the blood. The menstrual blood is just like any other venous blood, hence it is not impure or unhygienic and doesn’t make menstrual cups unhygienic. However, proper sanitation is required while using them.
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Using menstrual cups loses virginity: This is one of the most common misconceptions about menstrual cups that stops menstruators from opting for them.
Menstrual cups are meant to be inserted into the vagina. Virginity is related to sexual intercourse, and it has nothing to do with menstrual cups. Historically, it was considered taboo to put anything into your vagina except for sexual intercourse with the spouse. It was also tested if the hymen breaks during the first sexual intercourse, the woman was a virgin. It is important to note that the hymen can stretch and tear while playing sports, and similarly while inserting a menstrual cup. Therefore, the tearing of the hymen doesn’t justify that the individual is a virgin.
For a few decades, the change in the mindset of individuals has been observed by educating them about how the aspect of virginity doesn’t correlate with menstrual cup insertion. -
Menstrual cups are uncomfortable or painful: The idea of inserting anything into your vagina can be intimidating. However, menstrual cups are designed in a way that they are suitable to wear without any discomfort.
It is very important to go through the instructions about how to use a menstrual cup. It can be very uncomfortable or painful if you try to insert it without referring to any of the instructions. Menstrual cups are soft and flexible, hence comfortable to wear. -
Menstrual cup causes infection: Menstrual cups are made up of a biocompatible material, which is medical-grade silicone. They are specifically designed for maintaining menstrual hygiene and can be worn comfortably for up to 12 hours.
They are safe to use and the chances of catching an infection arise when you don’t wash and sterilize them properly as the harmful bacteria can interfere with your intimate hygiene.
Additionally, using a menstrual cup reduces the risk of catching urinary tract infections because of no contact between the urethra and menstrual blood. Therefore, the menstrual cup protects you from getting any infection. -
Menstrual cups can stuck or lost inside the vagina: Menstrual cups are easy to insert and remove. The stem of the menstrual cup ensures easy removal. You simply have to pull the cup with the help of the stem.
Also, they cannot get lost inside the vagina as their rim creates a suction against the cervix once inserted, hence it cannot move up further. - You can’t pee while wearing a menstrual cup: Before using a menstrual cup, you need to explore your body. Understand the anatomy that there are three holes in your private area- the urethra, vagina, and anus. Urination is done through the urethra. The menstrual cup is inserted into the vagina, not the urethra. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about peeing while wearing a menstrual cup.
So, these are the menstrual cup myths that you might have had.
Conclusion
The evolution of menstrual hygiene products has come a long way from cloth rags to menstrual cups. Menstrual cups have been a game-changer in the world of menstrual hygiene products as they are sustainable. But, the stigma and misconceptions about menstrual cups still exist as it is intimidating for people to insert anything into their vagina. It is normal to have some opinions regarding certain products; however, it is crucial to clarify whether they are misconceptions or facts. To know more, visit the Pee Safe website.
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✍️ This article was curated by Komal Gupta
