Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tips to clean menstrual cup before, during and after periods

You’ve most likely heard of menstrual cups by now! They’re eco-friendly, straightforward to make use of, and may last as long as years. They’re believed to be nice disposable interval merchandise, which work higher than pads and tampons. Whereas there are such a lot of professionals to utilizing menstrual cups, if the considered cleansing them nonetheless scares you – fret not! They’re straightforward to wash as properly and don’t fear it gained’t find yourself trying like against the law scene as soon as you’re finished cleansing it. Plus, it’s essential to hold it in good form if you wish to reuse it again and again. Let’s discover ways to clear a menstrual cup this World Menstrual Hygiene Day!

So, the very first thing it’s essential to find out about cleansing menstrual cups is that it’s on your personal security and well being. Cleansing them could appear to be a problem, however you will see that that utilizing a menstrual cup is completely achievable when you get a dangle of it. We could provide you with one more reason why it’s best to use menstrual cups – it lasts as much as 12 hours in a single go! Plus, it really works properly as a standalone interval product for about 10 years. All it’s essential to know is the best way to use a menstrual cup and the best way to clear it.

What’s a menstrual cup?

For the unversed, a menstrual cup is an alternate interval product that you need to use during times. A menstrual cup is a tender, silicone machine that you need to use throughout your interval as a substitute of disposable pads or tampons. Your menstrual cup can be utilized once more, however you will need to clear it in between makes use of. Empty your cup after every use, wash it, after which re-insert it. It is very important stop bacterial progress and sterilise your menstrual cup not less than as soon as every cycle.

Additionally Read: Can menstrual cups make your uterus drop? Let’s bust 7 such myths

The best way to clear a menstrual cup?

Dr Astha Dayal, lead advisor, obstetrics and gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram shares the appropriate approach to clear a menstrual cup earlier than, throughout, and after your durations.

1. It is very important sterilise or boil the menstrual cup in case you are utilizing it for the primary time. The simplest means is to boil it in water for about 5 minutes to 10 minutes. You should be cautious to make sure that the cup doesn’t burn and shouldn’t contact the surfaces of the pot.
2. You may as well sterilise it utilizing particular microwave containers or tablets used to sterilise it with chilly water. Nevertheless, the simplest approach to sterilise a menstrual cup is to boil it in a pan at house, and there must be a separate ache for sterilising, provides the knowledgeable.
3. In periods, it’s best to take away the cup, unclog the blood and wash it earlier than utilizing it once more.
4. Wash your palms earlier than inserting or eradicating the cup.
5. Clear the cup utilizing plain water. Nevertheless, one also can use oil-free and fragrance-free gentle cleaning soap or the particular washes that come together with the cup.
6. Keep away from utilizing robust detergents or issues which have fragrances or hydrogen peroxide or robust chemical-based issues, that are used for laundry garments as it could possibly spoil the silicone of the cup.
7. Typically you would possibly want further care in washing the holes or if there’s a foul scent within the cup. Then after washing it correctly, you may reinsert it.
8. After your interval is over boil it once more, dry it, after which retailer it until your subsequent interval.

Additionally Read: A menstrual cup is for everybody! Or perhaps not when you’re dealing with these 5 points

When to interchange the menstrual cup?

Sure, menstrual cramps can last as long as 10 years however do you have to anticipate that lengthy earlier than altering yours? No matter how a lot you clear it or hold it secure, it could possibly get broken – what do you have to do in such circumstances? Substitute it? Sure, says Dr Dayal. The cups can be utilized for a number of years, however it’s best to change them in a single or two years if there are any indicators of harm. You also needs to eliminate it when you discover any scratches, everlasting staining, or white flakes.

You also needs to change the menstrual cup when you discover the feel of the cup has modified or there’s a foul odour that’s not going away. Any leaks within the cup are additionally one more reason to modify to a brand new one. Having stated that, menstrual cups are straightforward to make use of and simple to wash however there’s no exhausting and quick rule that it’s essential to use them for 10 years. Change it when required and likewise seek the advice of your physician utilizing it.