My first time using a menstrual cup

For World Menstrual Hygiene Day, I wanted to share my experience with a menstrual cup—my first time using one and how it changed my perspective on period management.

I had always used sanitary pads, mostly because tampons seemed too risky. I was convinced I would never touch one after I heard about toxic shock syndrome. The idea of using a menstrual cup was daunting, but my desire to reduce waste and avoid tampons drove me to give it a try.

The first step was getting past the discomfort of learning something new. When I first got the cup, I had no clue how to insert it. The diagrams were helpful, but the reality was different. I folded the cup like it said, but it was awkward, and I worried I might hurt myself. It took several attempts, giving up and then trying again a month later before I got it in, and even then, I was hyper-aware of its presence. The removal part was equally tricky. There's a suction mechanism, and if you don't break it properly, it feels like you're trying to yank out a tree root. Not pleasant.

After those initial attempts, I thought about giving up. The pads I'd always used seemed so much easier. But I remembered why I wanted to switch - to lessen my environmental impact and avoid the risks associated with tampons. So, I kept at it, learning through trial and error. It helped to read articles and watch videos from others who'd gone through the same learning curve. I also realised that different folding techniques and water-based lubricants can make insertion much easier, and it's essential to be patient and relaxed. Easier said than done, I know, but crucial.

Once I got more comfortable, the benefits became clear. The menstrual cup could stay in for hours, sometimes all day, without needing a change. This was great for long workdays and even better for weekends when I wanted to be out and about without constantly thinking about my period. At the end of the day, cleaning it at home was straightforward—just a rinse and sterilize between cycles. 

Despite the learning curve and occasional awkwardness, I started to appreciate the freedom the menstrual cup offered. I could swim without worry, exercise without discomfort, and travel without lugging around stacks of pads. Plus, it felt good to know I wasn't contributing to landfill waste each month.

Switching to a menstrual cup was challenging, but it was also empowering. I felt more in control of my body and less burdened by the logistics of managing my period. If you've been considering making the switch, I’d encourage you to try it. It might not be smooth sailing at first, but once you get used to it, the benefits far outweigh the initial struggle. Here's to breaking the stigma and finding what works best for you. Happy World Menstrual Hygiene Day!