Are Menstrual Cups and Discs Right for Me?

WHAT ARE THEY?

A menstrual cup is a reusable, internal device made from medical grade silicone, natural rubber, or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer). They are approximately 2 inches long and 1.5 wide, though sizes vary between brands. They can be worn by individuals of any age, regardless of past sexual experience. When fit properly it should be comfortable and with some practice should be easy to insert and remove. They are a safe and environmentally friendly period product.

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HOW DO I KNOW WHICH ONE TO BUY?

There are so many options of cups and discs! The website putacupinit.com (put a cup in it) is a great place to start when researching which product is the best fit for you. This website is also a great resource for information with an extensive library of blog posts and videos. They have a QUIZ that will help narrow down which cup/disc may be right for you. Some cups are available in pharmacies and grocery stores while others are available only online.

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I CAN’T FIGURE OUT MY CUP/DISC!

If you are having difficulty using your disc or cup a pelvic floor physiotherapist may be able to help. Here are some common problems and how we can solve them:

1. Issue: Painful insertion/removal and uncomfortable. When the muscles of the pelvic floor are too tight it can make use difficult and uncomfortable. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help with stretching and relaxation of these muscles. The therapist will teach you exercises and ways to allow to the pelvic floor to be more mobile.
2. Issue: Keeps falling out. This might be something you notice after having a baby. Sometimes the organs sitting in the pelvis have more mobility (also known as prolapse) and can put pressure on your menstrual device.  Often we find that menstrual discs are bit more user-friendly for prolapse.   A pelvic floor physiotherapist is critical in the long-term management of prolapse. If you think you have prolapse, it is good to follow up with your doctor or pelvic floor physiotherapist as soon as you feel symptoms.
3. Issue: Can’t get it in and worried it will get lost up there. The anatomy of the vagina is hard to wrap your head around sometimes. Whether you are young, not sexually active or just unfamiliar with this area - a pelvic floor physiotherapist is able to teach you everything you need to know to give you the confidence you need to use this product.
4. Issue: It’s just not comfortable. While the Quiz from put a cup in it is a good place to start, you may want to try a different brand or size.  Just like a pair of shoes, some are more comfortable than others.

When you have questions or concerns about your pelvic floor or period – a pelvic floor physiotherapist is an expert in this area. Our initial appointments at Lakeview Physiotherapy are 1 hour long which gives us the time to address all your concerns in a thorough manner. Our skilled and caring physiotherapists will help you feel at ease and will answer all your questions. There are no bad questions! When you have the tools and support you need to understand your body, you can feel empowered about your period. Whatever products you choose to manage your period, we are here to help! 

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