Menstrual collectors are an excellent alternative to sanitary napkins and their main advantages include the fact that they last for around 10 years, are more hygienic and comfortable, as well as being more economical and environmentally friendly. Some trusted brands in Brazil are, for example, Inciclo, Lady Cup, Fleurity and Me Luna.
They are usually made of medicinal silicone or TPE, a type of rubber used in the production of surgical equipment, which makes them hypoallergenic and highly malleable, their shape is similar to a small cup of coffee and to use it must be inserted into the vaginal canal. See the step on inserting and removing your menstrual cup in Learn how to put on and clean your menstrual cup.
The main benefits of menstrual collectors are
Menstrual collectors were created in 1930, but were only used by people with a high economic level, but in 2016 they became more popular and now succeed among women.
There are menstrual cups of different sizes and consistencys, which must be chosen according to the needs of each woman, menstrual cups should be purchased taking into account the following factors:
To know its length, in the bathroom after washing the hands and the intimate area, you must insert your finger into the vaginal canal, until you touch a rounded structure that will be your cervix, this test should preferably be done during the menstrual period, because depending on the woman, her position may change slightly.
If your cervix is low, you won’t have to insert your finger too much into your vagina before you can touch it. On the other hand, if your cervix is high, it will be very difficult to reach because it will be located deep in the vagina.
This setting allows you to decide the width and therefore the capacity of the collector.
To evaluate your flow, also consider the amount and time you need to change the absorbent you normally use, if you change it every 2 or 3 hours, the flow is intense, but if you last longer, it has a normal flow. It is not necessary to change before 4 or 6 o’clock, this is a sign that it has a low flow.
In addition to the above points, it is also important to consider other factors such as the strength of your pelvic muscles, if you have a more sensitive bladder, if you practice physical activities that strengthen your pelvic muscles such as Yoga or Pilates, for example. example, if you are a virgin or have had children.
Joint analysis of all these factors will help determine the diameter and malleability of the collector, helping the woman understand whether she needs more malleable, firmer, larger or smaller collectors.
They can be purchased from online stores or pharmacies, and can be purchased from various brands such as Inciclo, Lady Cup, Me Luna, Holy Cup or Lunette, prices range from 60 to 80 reais. Each brand presents its different models and properties, leaving the choice to the woman.