Even though I come from a very “green” family, all the women use the same old grocery store menstrual supplies – Tampax, etc.  This is one of those things that we just don’t talk about — so, it wasn’t until after college that I was aware of tampon alternatives.

Enter the silicone menstrual cup.

Not only is this more eco-friendly, but it is a much cheaper and more convenient alternative to tampons and pads.  I have been using one for almost a year, and I can’t imagine, well, stuffing myself full of fibers again.

Menstrual cups are made of soft, flexible silicone that forms a seal with the low vaginal walls — it is easy to pull out with your fingers, or by the short built-in stem.

You just empty the cup a few times a day and wash it out with plain soap and water.  Before storing it for the month, either boil it or microwave it to disinfect.  Silicone doesn’t harbor bacteria.

That’s it.

Cost

A menstrual cup is around $25 – $40 new, and will last for 10 years with the proper care.  You won’t have to stock your cabinet full of “supplies,” and you won’t have to desperately look for a vending machine in the airport or carry around a vacation box in your purse for emergencies.  No more running out to the drugstore to pay $3.99 for a box of 8 Tampax (in the wrong absorbency, too, of course.)

Activity

Cups have been used by many gymnasts and swimmers.  I take contortion class (like yoga, but less boring) and it holds up great.  It’s generally considered to be a better option for athletics than tampons because there is no leakage.

TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome)

It only takes a few days to get used to using a menstrual cup.  It really takes a lot of hassle out of having your period — and unlike tampons, if you know it’s coming, you can insert it ahead of time.  There hasn’t been any risk of TSS associated with menstrual cups, as far as I can tell.

Where to find.

Menstrual cups are gaining in popularity as more and more normal people (you know, non radical green folks or hippies) are discovering them.  Several makers exist, and they cups are pretty much all the same: Moon Cup, the Keeper, Diva Cup, Lunette, LadyCup, etc.  Most of them come in two sizes – pre and post-childbirth.

I found mine at Whole Foods, and it was more expensive than online (big shock there.)  They carry the Diva Cup, and I bought it on impulse.  Some brands don’t ship outside their origin country.  In my experience, you’ll find the best prices online, and there is a respectable selection on Amazon.

People especially like the Lunette Cup due to the softness of the material.

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