Menstrual Cups: A Rediscovery

About once a month for the past 30 something years, I find myself wondering what man came up with those torture devices that women know as tampons and pads. I have pondered over the idea that there has to be something better, and today I found it. During my random web surfing, I discovered a not so new item called Instead Softcup. Although I immediately felt some kind of relief and elation, I couldn't help but feel slighted because I had never heard of this product. It's like having a miracle cure, but, refusing to share it. I'll never watch another commercial for feminine hygiene products quite the same again. Why aren't there any advertisements for Instead Softcup?

For those of you, who, like me, had blinders on, I'll give you an overview of this product. Instead Softcup is a single use, disposable menstrual cup. Although, it is inserted into the vagina, in the same manner as a tampon, it catches the menstrual flow instead of absorbing it. This menstrual cup resembles a diaphragm, but, is not intended to be used as a contraceptive. With proper use, menstrual flow is contained until you remove the cup, which cuts down on leakage and moisture that causes odor. Some of the other advantages of Instead Softcup are:

Can be worn twice as long as a tampon, up to 12 hours, in fact.

Unlike with tampons, there is no risk of TSS or Toxic Shock Syndrome.

Contains no fragrances, synthetic fibers, latex or chemicals that may cause irritation to the vaginal area.

Doesn't interfere with sexual intercourse.

For me, the disadvantages are few and rather minuet. Instead Softcup is a little costlier than tampons and pads; about $25 for 24, and it is not reusable, nor is it flushable.

However, if you are looking to go green, there are reusable menstrual cups. One of which is the DivaCup. It is used in the same manner that the Softcup, however, it can not be worn during sex. The price is around $32-$40 for one, but, it lasts 10 years. The average female spends well over $100 a year on sanitary products. You do the math. To keep the product clean, just wash with an non-fragranced cleanser. You can also, boil the product to ensure it is free of bacteria.

This is in no way a review of these products, but, I have done a bit of research and have yet to find many who oppose them. It takes some getting use to, just like the first time you used a tampon. Sometimes, I still don't get it right. But, I am determined to give menstrual cups a try. I figure the worst thing that can happen is that I have to return to tampons and pads. That thought alone gives me the incentive I need to give using menstrual cups a valiant effort.