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Medical experts are advising women to be mindful when using menstrual cups after a woman in her 30s developed temporary kidney issues due to a misaligned cup.
Since menstrual cups come in various shapes, sizes and levels of firmness, doctors encourage people to explore different options to find the perfect fit. (News18)
With more people ditching traditional pads and tampons, whether due to concerns over chemicals, cost or environmental waste, menstrual cups are steadily becoming the go-to alternative. These small, flexible silicone cups offer a budget-friendly, eco-conscious and convenient option for managing periods. Research has shown that menstrual cups are just as safe and effective as other menstrual products when it comes to collecting fluid. However, finding the right shape and size is about more than just preventing leaks, it’s also crucial for overall comfort and health.
Medical experts are advising women to be mindful when using menstrual cups after a woman in her 30s developed temporary kidney issues due to a misaligned cup.
According to BBC, she had been dealing with occasional pelvic pain and traces of blood in her urine for months but hadn’t connected the symptoms to her menstrual cup. While such cases are rare, Danish doctors writing in the British Medical Journal have highlighted that if a cup is incorrectly positioned, it can put pressure on nearby structures, like the ureters which are thin tubes responsible for carrying urine to the bladder.
This is why choosing the right cup size and ensuring proper placement is essential, medical professionals stress.
The woman eventually made a full recovery, but experts warn that correct positioning, along with choosing the correct cup shape and size, is important to prevent negative effects on the upper urinary tract.
How To Use A Menstrual Cup?
Menstrual cups are a reusable, sustainable alternative to disposable period products. Made from soft, flexible silicone or rubber, they can hold between 20 to 30ml (about two tablespoons) of blood when properly inserted.
Unlike pads and tampons, menstrual cups don’t need to be changed as frequently. Depending on flow, they can be removed, emptied, washed and reinserted every four to eight hours.
Finding the right cup model is important, as different shapes and sizes are available to suit individual needs. Some cups are smaller and designed for younger users or those who haven’t given birth. That said, first-time users may find the experience a bit tricky, particularly when it comes to removal.
A survey of 530 young people found that many struggled to take out the cup on their first attempt, with some even seeking help, reports BBC.
The key is to remember that menstrual cups create a suction seal inside the vagina to prevent leaks. To remove them safely, users should avoid pulling on the stem alone. Instead, they should pinch the base of the cup to release the seal and then gently wiggle it out, advises pelvic health physiotherapist Dr Kate Lough.
She reassures those new to menstrual cups that it can take a couple of cycles to get fully comfortable with them, but they should never cause pain. While talking to BBC News, she said, “Generally, they are a very safe product. When it’s in correctly, you shouldn’t feel it.”
Since menstrual cups come in various shapes, sizes and levels of firmness, Dr Lough encourages people to explore different options to find the perfect fit.
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