Period Cups & Underwear
More information about Period Cups & Underwear
Most people know about tampons and pads for menstrual periods, but there are many other products available. Menstrual cups or discs, which are flexible devices that hold menstrual flow, have been around for a long time, and they’ve recently grown in popularity. These flexible devices are usually made of rubber or silicone. They’re inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow for hours at a time.
Another option is period underwear, which is similar to regular underwear, except it’s made with absorbent material for soaking up menstrual flow and preventing leaks. Like most menstrual cups, period underwear can be washed and reused. This can reduce your monthly costs and the number of supplies you carry with you.
Walgreens offers many different products for menstrual care, including menstrual cups and period underwear, in store and online.
There are several advantages of menstrual cups vs. traditional period products, such as tampons and pads, including:
- Cost savings. Menstrual cups can be washed and reused, so you won’t need as many supplies.
- Longer wear. You may not need to empty a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. Tampons and pads typically need to be changed every four to eight hours.
- Fewer supplies to carry around daily. You will likely not need many extra supplies when you use a menstrual cup because you can reuse the same cup.
- Less environmental impact. The fewer supplies you use, the less you’ll need to throw away, which means less waste.
Can you wear a menstrual cup overnight?
Yes, you can wear a menstrual cup overnight. Most menstrual cups can be worn for 8-12 hours before being emptied, which means you can wear one while you sleep. Make sure that you choose the appropriate size cup for your body and flow. You may want to wear a pad or period underwear for the first few nights to avoid leaks.
How do you clean and maintain a menstrual cup?
Always wash your hands before handling your menstrual cup. After emptying the cup, you should rinse the cup with clean water and fragrance-free soap. Most menstrual cups are reusable. You can sterilize the cup after your cycle with boiling water or sterilizing solution before reusing.
Are period underwear and menstrual cups suitable for all flow types?
Menstrual cups and period underwear can be used for different levels of menstrual flow. You can choose different sizes of cups to accommodate lighter or heavier flows. If you have an IUD (intrauterine device) in place, you should check with your healthcare provider before using a menstrual cup. Period underwear is also offered in various levels of absorbency, which can provide period protection for a wide range of flow. Choosing a menstrual product should be based upon your comfort and individual needs, and there are many options offered at Walgreens online and in store. Ask your Walgreens pharmacist for help finding the best period products for you.
How often do you change your menstrual cup?
Menstrual cups should be emptied every 8 to 12 hours, depending on the package instructions and amount of menstrual flow. While some menstrual cups are disposable, most are reusable. You’ll just need to wash and sterilize the cup properly according to the product instructions. You may need to try different period products to find the best choice for you. At Walgreens, you can find a variety of menstrual care products in store and online. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your Walgreens pharmacist.