If you’re looking for a way to make your period more eco-friendly, comfortable and cost-effective, you might want to consider using a reusable menstrual cup. A menstrual cup is a small, flexible device that you insert into your vagina to collect your menstrual blood. Unlike tampons and pads, which you have to change every few hours and throw away, a menstrual cup can last up to 12 hours and can be washed and reused for years.

Here are some of the benefits of using a reusable menstrual cup:

– You save money. A menstrual cup can cost anywhere from $15 to $40, depending on the brand and size. That might seem like a lot upfront, but think about how much you spend on disposable products every month. According to one estimate, the average person who menstruates spends about $150 per year on tampons and pads. That means you could save over $1000 in 10 years by switching to a menstrual cup.
– You reduce waste. Tampons and pads are not only expensive, but also wasteful. They end up in landfills or oceans, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose and harm wildlife. A menstrual cup, on the other hand, produces zero waste. You just rinse it with water and soap and store it in a pouch or container until your next cycle.
– You avoid chemicals. Tampons and pads are often made with bleached cotton, synthetic fibers, fragrances and dyes that can irritate your skin and vagina. Some studies have also linked these chemicals to health problems such as endometriosis, infertility and cancer. A menstrual cup is usually made of medical-grade silicone, which is hypoallergenic and safe for your body.
– You feel more comfortable. A menstrual cup is designed to fit snugly inside your vagina and conform to your shape. You might not even feel it once it’s in place. Unlike tampons, which can dry out your vaginal walls and cause discomfort or infections, a menstrual cup maintains your natural moisture and pH balance. Unlike pads, which can leak, shift or chafe, a menstrual cup stays put and prevents odors and stains.
– You have more freedom. A menstrual cup can hold more blood than a tampon or pad, which means you don’t have to worry about changing it as often. You can wear it for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. You can also use it for any activity, such as swimming, hiking or yoga. You can even sleep with it overnight without fear of leaks or toxic shock syndrome.

Of course, using a menstrual cup might take some practice and patience at first. You might need to try different brands or sizes to find the one that works best for you. You might also need to learn how to insert and remove it properly and comfortably. But once you get the hang of it, you might never want to go back to tampons or pads again.

So what are you waiting for? Give a reusable menstrual cup a try and see how it can improve your period experience!