He Cares Monday: Understanding Menstrual Cups and How Men Can Support Their Use

Menstrual products come in many forms, and while tampons and pads are the most commonly known, menstrual cups are gaining popularity for their sustainability and long-term benefits. Menstrual cups are a reusable option, often misunderstood but highly effective for those who prefer a more eco-friendly and long-lasting alternative. This week on He Cares Monday, we’ll explore what menstrual cups are, how they help manage periods, ways men can be supportive, and debunk a few myths surrounding their use. Whether it’s your partner, child, or friend, understanding menstrual cups can help you provide better support and create an open dialogue about menstrual health.

What Are Menstrual Cups?

Menstrual cups are small, flexible cups made of medical-grade silicone or rubber that are inserted into the vagina to collect, rather than absorb, menstrual blood. Unlike pads or tampons, menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on the flow, and are reusable for several years with proper care. Many individuals prefer menstrual cups because they are more environmentally friendly and reduce the need to buy disposable products regularly.

Types of Menstrual Cups and How They Help with Flow

Menstrual cups come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit different bodies and flow levels. Choosing the right menstrual cup depends on factors such as flow intensity, comfort, and individual anatomy. Here are the two main types:

1. Small/Regular Size Cups
   These cups are typically used by individuals with a lighter flow or those who are younger or have not given birth. They are smaller in diameter and capacity, making them easier to insert and remove for those with lighter periods or more compact anatomies. These cups still provide protection for several hours, making them suitable for most days of a menstrual cycle.

2. Large Size Cups
   Larger menstrual cups are designed for individuals with heavier flows, those who have given birth vaginally, or those who need higher capacity for longer protection. They can hold more menstrual blood, reducing the need for frequent changes during heavy flow days. These cups are often preferred for overnight use or during the busiest parts of the day when changing frequently isn’t convenient.

Menstrual cups also come in different firmness levels, catering to the comfort and preference of the user, with softer cups often favored for those with more sensitive bodies.

3 Ways Men Can Support the Use of Menstrual Cups

1. Be Open to Learning
   Menstrual cups can be a bit more complex than tampons or pads, especially for those who are new to using them. Take the time to understand how menstrual cups work, how they are inserted and removed, and how to clean and care for them. By being informed, you can help dispel any concerns and offer guidance if the individual is having difficulty adjusting to the cup.

2. Encourage Sustainable Choices
   If someone in your life is interested in more sustainable menstrual products, support their decision to try a menstrual cup. Offering encouragement and helping them research different brands and sizes can go a long way in making the transition easier. You can also help with initial purchases and supplies for cleaning the cup, showing your support for their eco-friendly choice.

3. Respect the Learning Curve
   Using a menstrual cup for the first time can take some practice. Understand that there might be a learning curve when it comes to insertion, removal, and cleaning. Show patience and encouragement as they adjust to using the cup, and remind them that it may take a few cycles to get comfortable. Being patient and supportive during this time can help them feel more confident in their decision to use a cup.

3 Myth/Fact Statements About Menstrual Cups

Myth: Menstrual cups are messy and inconvenient to use.
Fact: While there may be a learning curve for inserting and removing menstrual cups, they are not necessarily messier than tampons or pads. Once properly inserted, the cup can be worn for up to 12 hours, making it a highly convenient option. Cleaning the cup only requires simple steps like rinsing with water or using a mild soap.

Myth: Menstrual cups are uncomfortable to wear.
Fact: When inserted correctly, menstrual cups should not cause discomfort. They are designed to fit comfortably inside the vagina, and most people can’t feel them at all once they are properly positioned. It may take a few tries to find the right size or firmness, but the comfort level is comparable to tampons once you adjust.

Myth: You have to empty the cup too often, making it inconvenient.
Fact: Menstrual cups can hold more blood than tampons, meaning they need to be emptied far less frequently—often every 8 to 12 hours. This makes them a great option for people with busy schedules or those who don’t want to worry about frequent changes throughout the day.

Supporting the use of menstrual cups is a great way to show care and understanding for the individuals in your life. Menstrual cups offer a sustainable, long-term solution to managing periods, and being open to learning about how they work can help create more supportive and thoughtful conversations. By helping normalize the use of menstrual cups, offering assistance where needed, and addressing any concerns with empathy, you can contribute to a more comfortable menstrual experience. Remember, menstrual health is an ongoing dialogue, and being informed and supportive makes a big difference.