Are Menstrual Cups Better Than Sanitary Pads?

Most of us get frustrated with the chafing, itching, and prickling that comes with pads during menstruation. Moreover, the toxins and plastic found in pads can be really harmful to the human body. The pads are uncomfortable and have many disadvantages. It is also important to look for alternatives that are eco-friendly that offer you better health and more freedom along with a sustainable lifestyle.

Reasons to use a menstrual cup over a sanitary napkin

A menstrual cup can last for years

It is seen that initially people feel hesitant in trying something new but once you will have the feel of it you will understand how comfortable it is. The menstrual cup is dead cheap when compared with sanitary napkins. They are reusable menstrual hygiene products and thus can be used for years. It will help you save a lot on your monthly expenses. On the other hand, pads are dumped in landfills once used. Even if you are using reusable sanitary napkins, they also do not last that long.

They hold more blood

Menstrual cups can hold more blood than pads any day. The menstrual cup has the capacity to hold twice as much menstrual blood as sanitary napkins. You do not have to worry about emptying the cup frequently and can wear it for longer hours. The pads do not hold the menstrual flow but soak it and that is also one of the factors that make menstrual cups superior to sanitary pads.

Sleep better

Every person has a unique posture while sleeping and thus there is a continuous fear of leakages. You can have a sound sleep without worrying about leakages when using menstrual cups. It is probably the only way that helps you have the rest you need during your periods with those cramps.

Gentle on skin

Sanitary napkins can cause a lot of skin issues like rashes, itching, redness, and infection because of continuous usage and friction against your skin. Moreover, artificial perfumes and fragrances used in the pads can cause skin allergies and irritation on the skin. On the other hand, menstrual cups do not cause any such issues as they are inserted inside the vagina.

Menstrual cups are more sustainable

Menstrual cups can last for up to 10 years while a reusable menstrual pad needs to be replaced sooner that can go up to 1-5 years depending on the brand. Moreover, if the pad you are using is not reusable then it directly goes to the dumping zone. Reusable pads need more water to be cleaned when compared with menstrual cups as the cups are simply rinsed under running water between uses and sterilizing the cups also needs only a pan of boiling water. Thus, we can say that the menstrual cup is more eco-friendly and sustainable.

Menstrual cups are more comfortable

You will feel more comfortable wearing a menstrual cup as once it is worn you will not even feel that it’s there as it is practically imperceptible. On the other hand, pads absorb menstrual fluid and thus you will feel wet, and sticky, making you uncomfortable. It is even noticeable under tight clothing. You will also encounter a foul-smelling odour when the menstrual blood comes into contact with the air causing discomfort but this is not the case with menstrual cups as it collects blood within your vaginal canal.

Menstrual cups need to be changed less frequently

With a menstrual cup, you can wait up to 10-12 hours before emptying the cup because they have more capacity than a pad to hold the menstrual flow. Even if you have a heavy flow, you can relax and need not be in a hurry to empty the cup. As a part of healthy habits, it is suggested to change a sanitary pad every 4-6 hours depending upon your flow which can decrease the time to even 1-2 hours.

Menstrual cups are easier to clean

As we have already discussed, menstrual cups are much easier to clean than reusable pads. A menstrual cup can be easily cleaned by just rinsing it, before wearing it. You can use a menstrual cup wash to clean it and boil or sterilize it in a sterilizer for a thorough cleaning. While travelling you can carry a small water bottle or a pack of wet tissues to clean it in public washrooms. On the other hand, a reusable pad needs to be rinsed first, soaked and then washed thoroughly. It also takes long hours to get dried as well. Even if you are using a one-time pad then also you face a lot of difficulty in disposing of it. All these factors make the menstrual cup less messy.

Menstrual cups are less likely to leak

Sanitary pads can cause leakages and can put you in uncomfortable situations causing embarrassment in public places, offices or even at home. But, the menstrual cups do not leak as they sit inside the vagina and create a strong seal against the walls of the vagina that does not allow them to move, avoiding any leakages. So you do not have to worry about anything and lead a carefree life.

Menstrual cups are cheaper

Menstrual cups are an affordable option when it comes to menstrual hygiene products. Once you purchase it you do not have to worry about it for the coming 8-10 years. You may need very few menstrual cups during your lifetime compared to pads. For every menstrual cycle, you need at least 12-15 pads.

Menstrual cups are all over the place due to their growing popularity and ease of use. With its multiple advantages, it is in much demand. You can buy menstrual cups online after comparing their USPs, ratings, and prices. If you want you can also buy it from the supermarket or pharmacy. Menstrual cups have made the lives of females easy and comfortable and will continue to do so in coming years by upgrading them.