Waste Free Periods: Menstrual Cups.

Menstrual cups have been on the market since 1937 but have come into the spotlight recently due to people looking to reduce the waste they produce and help combat global warming. With Organicup.com reporting that an average of 11,000 disposable pads and/or tampons being used by an individual in their lifetime. Menstrual cups are just like any other form of sanitary product and are like tampons in use with them being inserted to collect the menstrual fluid.

They are more expensive with the average cup costing around £20. However, the cups can last for over 5 years so overall you will save money. One of the most affordable cups on the market at £8.95, is the Hey Girls which is a UK based organisation who look to offer ‘no leak, super comfy, chlorine and bleach-free, an environmentally friendly product that tackles period poverty in the UK.’ They run on a Buy One Give One policy which means they will give sanitary products to those suffering from period poverty. As well as tampons and towels they also offer menstrual cups which are available in two different sizes. 

The small which is white, suitable for those aged under 25 who have not given birth vaginally or the large which is red, suitable for those over 25 or have given birth vaginally whatever the age. The cups are made from 100% medical grade silicone and are latex, phthalate and BPA and Dioxin free. The cups themselves are easy to use but may take a few cycles to get the hang of it. 

Menstrual cups can be boiled in between cycles to ensure that the cup is sterile before reuse. There have also been no health risks related to their use when used as directed. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) caused by menstrual cups compared to tampon use also appears to be very rare. 

In a world where your global footprint is becoming more and more apparent, this needs to be considered as an alternative to single-use menstrual products. It has been reported that most women hear of menstrual cups via the internet or word of mouth instead of conventional advertising such as TV, so take this as your push to try one out! 

There are various YouTube videos on this topic from popular channels such as Hannah Witton and even dedicated menstrual cup channel Put A Cup In It if you are looking for more information.  

-Popular Youtuber Hannah Witton tried menstrual cups out in her Hormon Diaries series.

Put A Cup In It offer real and friendly advice in a approachable manor.