One thing women don’t often talk about much is actually being a woman and the monthly authority that comes along with this reality. Although I consider myself to be a traditionally formal and private person, I’m just going to whip open the door to a conversation in menstrual health by saying, “Menstrual cups are life changing.”

Like many women, I’ve struggled with my menstrual cycle for what feels like FOREVER, and two years ago, I was introduced to a menstrual cup. Since then, I have confidently discontinued the never ending regime of tampons, pads, birth control, awkward sleeping positions, and I feel that I have, in a sense, been liberated and embraced womanhood once again.

I know what you are thinking because I felt it too, “Umm…Gross! Absolutely no way am I going to use that!” But I’m here to tell you, it is no more disgusting than tampons. Inserting the cup doesn’t hurt, and using the restroom doesn’t it’s require removal. I travel with mini wipes just to be extra sanitary when not at home, but I’ve not had an infection or any sanitary mishap.

Benefits of a menstrual cup:

ECONOMICAL

 Even with the initial investment of one menstrual cup (approx. $36), and if you replace it once a year, I forecast a savings of at least $120 annually. I don’t spend what feels like eternity shopping for inventory of feminine hygiene projects.

DISCRETION

I hardly notice that it is there. I no longer have to rush to the bathroom to change every couple of hours. Clots (and I mean C.L.O.T.S.) are no longer an issue. I can even wear white pants on this often dreaded week of the month.

SLEEPING

I don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night to handle business. I don’t have to lay in an awkward position—or on top of a make shift bed pad. I don’t have to clean my linens after every single sleep cycle, and I can still wear my cute nighty.

ACTIVITY

I work out almost daily so bulky uncomfortable pads can make workouts dreadful during this week of the month. Running, Barre, cycling, weight training and swimming are all part of my workout regime. With the cup, I can wear my workout tights and swim suit without fear of random bunching.

ECO FRIENDLY

Americans produce approximately 4.4 lbs. of waste a day. Menstrual cups are reusable and produce very little waste.

Have you tried a menstrual cup? What are your thoughts?

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