The menstrual cup has been amongst us for quite some time. But it is only now that its significance has been realized. The first modern menstrual cups, similar to the one we have today were invented in 1937 by American actress Leona Chalmers. The menstrual cup designed by her was made from latex rubber which would not cause “uncomfortableness or consciousness of its presence.”
The popularity of the reusable menstrualcup has increased over time. No doubt the reusable and its eco-friendly properties have made it the buzz of the town. However, its success also lies in its effective application. And to effectively apply one should ensure the menstrual cup to be cleaned up well.
Proper cleansing promotes hygiene. Female health and hygiene are what we demand.Cleaning a menstrual cup shouldn’t really be a liability. Out of the whole barrage of reusable menstrual products, the menstrual cup is easiest to use and even wash. After every use, empty your cup and wash it before reinserting it. Once in a while, it is important to sterilize the menstrual cup to avoid any bacterial growth.
There are several modes of cleaning menstrual cups. You can go for any of the modality.
1.1 Stove method: use a pot and let the water in it come to a rolling boil. Then insert the period cup in it for three minutes. Three minutes is a good, long time for its cleansing. If you want to avoid any contact between the cup and the base of the pan or pot for certain reasons, you can always use a kitchen device. For instance, the period cup can be inserted in a whisk to negate the contact.
1.2 Microwave method: use a microwave-safe container, fill it with water and submerge the menstrual cup init. Set the microwave for about two to five minutes. Two things have to be kept in mind in this method.Firstly, do not cover a lid over the microwave container. Secondly, after the process, let the water cool down. When it does, the menstrual cup can then be dispatched.
2. Cup washes and wipes: apart from the boiling method, there are specific cup washes and wipes by many companies available to clean the menstrual cup. However, not everyone is open to use these. Often, the ingredients used in such washes can cause rashes to the user. So better avoid!
3. Mild wash or soap: any mild soap or intimate wash which is suspended of perfumes or oil can also be put to use.
4. Water: most people are either sensitive or determined not to use any kind of soap, wash, or wipes to clean a menstrual cup. They go for simple, plain water which they feel free to use. It must be noted that outward cleaning does not ensure complete hygiene. Odor exuded from the menstrual cup and stains which remain even after washing are to be taken critically. Blood itself has an irony odor. After removing the cup, the blood in the cup is immediately exposed to the air. Then the bacteria (from one’s vagina) and the blood start to give off a nasty odor. This can lead to a smellycup.
These were few of the most potent and easy ways of cleaning a menstrual cup. Cleaning the cup is important, be it before inserting or after removal. For the success of the menstrual period cup, cleaning is a noteworthy step.