How to choose my menstrual cup

Menstrual collectors are an excellent alternative to pads and their main advantages include the fact that they last for about 10 years, being more hygienic and comfortable, in addition to being cheaper and more environmentally friendly. Some trusted brands in Brazil are Inciclo, Lady Cup, Fleurity and Me Luna, for example.

They are usually made from medical silicone or TPE, a type of rubber used in the production of surgical materials, which makes them hypoallergenic and very malleable. Its shape is similar to a small cup of coffee and to use, it must be inserted into the vaginal canal. See the step on how to insert and remove the menstrual cup in Learn how to put on and how to clean the menstrual cup.

Main advantages

The main advantages that menstrual collectors have are:

It does not cause diaper rash, allergies or irritations because it is made of medicinal silicone; It maintains the natural moisture of the vagina, and so it is easier to get in and out than the tampon; It does not allow any smell because the blood does not come in contact with the air and therefore does not oxidize, as with ordinary absorbents; It is comfortable and comfortable to use; Lasts 10 to 12 years, being much more economical in the long run; Can be used to be in the pool, on the beach, or to do exercises, without leaks and constraints; only needs to be changed every 8 to 12 hours; does not generate waste that cannot be recycled, as is the case with other absorbents.

Menstrual collectors were created in 1930 but were only used by people with high economic status, but in 2016 they became more popular and today they are successful among women.

3 steps to know which size to buy

There are menstrual cups of different sizes and consistencies, which must be chosen according to the needs of each woman. Menstrual cups should be purchased taking into account the following factors:

1. Height of the cervix

For low cervix: prefer shorter collector For high cervix: prefer longer collector.

To know its length, in the bath after washing your hands and intimate area, you should insert your finger in the vaginal canal, until you touch a rounded structure that will be your cervix. This test should be done preferably during the menstrual period, because depending on the woman, her position may change slightly.

If your cervix is low, you won't have to insert your finger too far into the vagina to be able to touch it. On the other hand, if your cervix is high, it will be very difficult to reach, as it will be located deep in the vagina.

2. Intensity of menstrual flow

This parameter helps to decide the width and, consequently, the capacity of the collector.

For heavy menstrual flow: prefer larger and larger collector; For medium menstrual flow: prefer medium size collector For weak menstrual flow: you can use a smaller, shorter collector.

To assess how your flow is, also take into account how much, how long you need to change the absorbent you normally use. If you change every 2 or 3 hours the flow is intense, but if you hold on longer, it has a normal flow. If you do not need to change before 4 or 6 hours, it is a sign that you have a weak flow.

3. Other factors

In addition to the previous points, it is also important to consider other factors such as the strength of the pelvic muscles, if you have a more sensitive bladder, if you practice physical activities that strengthen your pelvic muscles such as Yoga or Pilates, for example, if you are a virgin or if you have had children.

The joint analysis of all these factors will help to decide the diameter and malleability of the collector, helping the woman to understand if she needs more malleable, firmer, larger or smaller collectors.

Where to buy the menstrual cup

They can be purchased from online stores or pharmacies, and can be purchased from different brands such as Inciclo, Lady Cup, Me Luna, Holy Cup or Lunette. The prices vary between 60 and 80 reais. Each brand presents its different models and properties, leaving the choice to the woman.