Very recently, menstrual cups have become the favourite choice for women. But the first-ever existence of a menstrual cup was remarked in the early 1930s. If you're still wondering to choose between the menstrual cups and tampons, then you're at right place. Check out why menstrual cups are preferred over tampons
Menstrual cups Vs Tampons
Cost
On average, women who are using tampons spend between Rs.2500-3500 annually depending on the duration and regularity of her periods. On the other hand, menstrual cups can save you a huge sum. Because single menstrual cup can be upto 10 years and the best part is it can be reused. A single menstrual cup costs from Rs.435 to Rs.3100. Remember the fact that this is a one-time investment and a menstrual cup will last upto 10 years. A menstrual cup can save you a fortune.
Durability
A menstrual cup can be used up to 12 hours whereas a tampon will last only for 4 to 6 hours. Here, you could notice the significant amount of usage time difference between these two. No need to pinpoint which is better when it comes to durability. Also, the menstrual cup eliminates the need to carry the extra tampons in your purse. However, the menstrual cup should be checked every 4-6 hours if you're on your heavy flow period. If you find the cup is filled, then just empty out the cup and reinsert it after washing it with water. Now you are good to go for another 4-6 hours. And if you're well aware of your period dates, then the menstrual cup can be worn on the expected day of the first period to avoid the first leakage.
Chemical-free
No companies are in a compulsion to enclose the ingredients to FDA while manufacturing a tampon. There are several reports confirming that tampons are bleached with chlorine to make it look to white in colour and mimicked to be sterile. The chlorine-bleached tampons will have by-products of bleaching - Dioxin and Trihalomethane - the two deadliest toxins. Dioxins are earmarked as No.1 carcinogen - a substance which causes cancer in the living tissues. Most women are aware of this today. Apart from this, tampons are known for Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). But these are not the case with a menstrual cup. The menstrual cups are made of Medical grade silicone, body friendly which mitigates the traces of chemicals that left behind the vagina after removal. Also, a few reports report that the suction created between the vagina and the cup while inserting, actually, decreases the risk of bacteria. Yet this is not proven scientifically.
Eco-friendly
On average, a woman will have to use 12,000 to 17,000 tampons/pads in her lifetime. The number of used tampons is astronomical when you account the burgeoning population as the tampons and sanitary pads accumulate in landfills. But the menstrual cups can be reused which notoriously decrease the impact on the environment.
Both menstrual cups and tampons have their own share of pros and cons. Buy menstrual cups and give it a spin. Likewise, buy tampons and use them and check out what suits you the most.