Menstrual Cup Dangers: Are There Any Risks?

Menstrual cups can be a fantastic option for managing your period. But what are some of the potential dangers associated with using a menstrual cup?

Irritation

To reduce the risk of irritation, it is important to look for a cup made of hypoallergenic, medical grade silicone. Never use scented soaps, body washes or douches to clean your menstrual cup as these products can be quite harsh and can cause irritation.

Leaking

Another potential danger associated with menstrual cups is the risk of leaking or slipping. If not inserted correctly, a menstrual cup can be prone to leaking or slipping out of place. To minimize these risks, it is important to ensure that you know how to use a menstrual cup correctly. This can include experimenting with different folds and techniques until you find the best fit and position for you. 

Toxic Shock Syndrome

Like with any period care product you cannot have zero risk of TSS. But a clean, properly-used menstrual cup means the chances are very small.

To reduce the risk of contracting TSS, you should empty, wash and re-insert your menstrual cup every 12 hours. Additionally, it is important that you always wash your hands before handling the cup, and that you use a mild, fragrance-free, soap-free cleansing product to clean the cup.

Are there any risks with using a menstrual cup?

The short answer is: no, menstrual cups are generally considered safe for most people provided you are using them correctly. 

How to use a menstrual cup safely?

Any health risks associated with using a menstrual cup come from using a dirty cup or using a cup that has been around for too long. 

Although menstrual cups are safe to use, it is always important to keep your cup clean and replace it regularly. 

✰ Always rinse the cup with cold or warm water and your hands before inserting your menstrual cup.

✰ Always wash your hands before removing your menstrual cup.

✰ Don’t keep it in too long, empty out the contents of the cup at least every 10-12 hours. And yes sleeping with a menstrual cup is absolutely fine!

✰ Before re-inserting the cup, rinse with cold water and then wash with warm water.

✰ Cleaning your menstrual cup with a soap is not necessary, but if you would like to, make sure it’s a mild and fragrance-free soap-free cleansing product. Seriously, skip any chemicals, remember this is going back in your body so be kind! Lunette’s makes a specially formulated Menstrual Cup Cleanser to make it squeaky clean.

✰ After your period has ended, boil your menstrual cup in hot water for 5 – 10 minutes once a month. to eliminate bacteria. They even make special menstrual cup santizers that are dedicated to cleaning your menstrual cup! (My favourite is Ruby Cups Sanitizer available here)

✰ When you’re done using the cup, make sure that you dry the cup thoroughly before storing it in something that allows airflow; the cotton pouch they are usually packaged with is ideal.

 

Sources

https://www.lunette.com/blogs/posts/short-history-of-menstrual-cups

https://www.lunette.com/blogs/news/menstrual-cups-and-toxic-shock-syndrome

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A menstrual cup is a safe and convenient way to manage your period. I believe the benefits of a menstrual cup completely outweigh any potential drawbacks. With proper use, you should not experience any risks or dangers associated with using a menstrual cup. Just be sure to be hygienic and wash your cup regularly to ensure your safety.