Maria Helena
Although it was invented in the 1930s, many people still do not know the menstrual collector. It is a cup made of hypoallergenic silicone and used in place of the absorbent to collect menstruation blood. The fear of using the collector may be because it has to be introduced into the vaginal canal and this is still taboo for some people.
The menstrual collector is an economical alternative because it lasts a few years thus eliminating the monthly purchase of tampons. Another big advantage is being environmentally friendly. Instead of the waste generated by disposable pads, you only use one cup, meaning less waste in the long run. Keep reading to answer all your questions about the menstrual collector.
But after all, what is a menstrual collector?
Also called a menstrual cup, the collector is a feminine hygiene item that is inserted into the vagina during menstruation to collect blood. Unlike tampons, it does not absorb menstrual fluid.
It is usually made of flexible bell-shaped medical silicone and has a rod for insertion and withdrawal. Most brands of menstrual cups sell one size smaller and one larger. They are generally colorless and translucent, but several brands also offer colored cups, accompanied by a cloth pouch to carry or store.
Within 4-10 hours, depending on the amount of flow, the collector should be removed, emptied, rinsed and reinserted. After each period, the menstrual collector should be boiled for at least 5 minutes and stored for use next month.
Read also: Absorbent panties: Understand if it's worth exchanging common methods for her
Why use the menstrual collector?
After gaining the trust of Europeans and Americans, the menstrual collector has gained popularity among Brazilian women. This is because it has several advantages. Check out:
Advantages of the menstrual collector
It is economical: A single collector can last up to 10 years. It's cheaper than money spent per month on traditional tampons.
It is ecologically correct: Hygienic pads take a long time to degrade and the collection cup takes a long time to dispose of.
Odor: There is no odor because the fluid is not exposed to air.
Practicality: The collectors are capable of a much larger flow volume than the external or internal absorbers, allowing for longer periods of use. You can keep the cup for up to 10 hours, while tampons would have to be changed 3-4 times a day.
Read also: Menstrual Cycle: Clear Your Questions
Disadvantages of the Menstrual Collector
Learn how to use: Adapting to put on and off the collector may take a while. You will need practice!
Hygiene: removal and insertion in public places may be compromised depending on the hygiene of the place.
Size: to decide which size you will need to try. There's no other way!
Accessibility: The sale of collectors is still mostly done over the internet making it difficult for those people who are not used to this buying process.
Already convinced that menstrual collector is a good alternative for you? Overall, there are more advantages than disadvantages! Even so, respect your body and think about your comfort first.
Also read: 5 menstrual calendar apps to monitor your cycle and make your life easier
Frequently Asked Questions About the Menstrual Collector
To answer the most frequently asked questions about the menstrual collector, we interviewed the resident of Gynecology and Obstetrics at UFMG Hospital das Clínicas, Maysa Teotonio Josafá Simão (CRM MG 65082). Check it out below:
1. What are the menstrual collector care? Menstrual collectors are very economical and practical to use, but some care is needed. It is important to be aware of the frequency of change, proper hygiene of the device, the fact that its use must be individual and non-transferable, and the choice of the appropriate size.
2. Is there a risk of infection or irritation? Infection and local irritation may occur mainly due to improper use of the device. Unlike the tampon, there are no reported cases of Toxic Shock Syndrome (severe condition associated with tampon use for more than 8 hours). Latex allergic patients should also be aware. Although most collectors are made of hypoallergenic silicone rather than latex, it is important to check with the manufacturer before purchasing.
3. How long can I stay with menstrual collector? The frequency of change should be adjusted to each woman and the characteristics of her menstrual flow.It is advisable to change every 4-6 hours, but it is safe to keep using it for up to 8-10 hours on days with reduced flow. It is important to always follow the manufacturer's recommendations as there may be variations.
4. Can you sleep with the collector? Yes, you can sleep with him without risk of any damage or infection. In the lying position, the flow is accumulated at the bottom of the vaginal sac and when you get up it returns to the collecting cup. It is advisable to only respect the exchange time. This will only leak if the device is not positioned correctly.
5. How to know my menstrual collector size? In general, 2 different sizes (A and B) are manufactured, the choice being based not on the patient's size or weight but on the obstetric history and age of the patient? This usually reflects the tone / sagging of the vaginal muscles. Women with children of vaginal birth or above 35 years of age are indicated by model A, while for women without children and under 35 years old, model B would be more indicated
6. Can any woman use her menstrual collector? Yes, any woman, but in some situations it is contraindicated, such as during the postpartum period (which lasts up to 42 days after childbirth), due to treatments of vaginal infections. There are no contraindications for use for virgin women, but it is important to note that there may be rupture of the hymen during insertion. Women using an IUD can also use the collector, taking care not to pull the cord during extraction (this is difficult, but it can happen).
7. Can the menstrual collector cause colic? No. There are no studies that associate the use of the menstrual collector with increased colic. What may occur is the patient experiencing abdominal / vaginal pain or even cramps if the device is incorrectly placed or removed.
8. Can you play sports or go to the gym using? You can and should! Several high-performance athletes have been reported to mention improved comfort and even physical performance with the use of collectors. There are also no contraindications to beach or pool use. However, it is important to make sure that the vacuum has been properly established.
9. Does the collector adapt to any menstrual cycle? Yes, it fits. Perhaps it is necessary to make adjustments to the collector change frequency.
10. How to sanitize the menstrual collector? After emptying your sink, you should sanitize it with running water and mild soap, rinse well to avoid any menstrual residue and dry to use again. Before using your collection cup for the first time and at the beginning and end of each cycle, you must also boil it. This process can be done in the microwave or on the stove. Just separate a specific container for this and always handle the collector with clean hands.
It is always good to remember that the menstrual collector is not and does not serve as a contraceptive. It also does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. If you have questions and feel unsafe to use, consult your gynecologist for guidance and help you decide what is best for your well-being.
How to use a Menstrual Cup – In-depth Instructional Video (March 2024)
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