Every person who menstruates has a unique cycle with variations in duration and flow. While some can experience heavy flow which can last several days, there are some who could experience less flow and shorter durations.
With the introduction of menstrual cups as an alternative to traditional sanitary pads and tampons, owing to its positive impact on the environment has also sparked questions on its potential influence on the menstrual cycle. But the question is, can menstrual cups really shorten your periods? Let’s explore the truth.
Comparative Benefits Of Menstrual Cups Over Sanitary Pads And Tampons
Let’s see how menstrual cups are above par with sanitary pads and tampons.
- Menstrual cups can be worn for up to twelve hours.
- Menstrual cups are reusable and environment friendly.
- They can hold more fluid than tampons and pads.
- Menstrual cups cost cheaper and can be purchased less frequently as one cup lasts for up to 5 years, unlike sanitary pads and tampons, which need to be purchased continually and are disposable.
Does Using A Menstrual Cup Effect The Duration Of Your Period?
Now, when we talk about the length of a person’s menstrual cycle, it is determined mainly by hormonal factors and the shedding of the uterine lining and these factors are not influenced by the use of menstrual cups.
But some people perceive that their menstrual cycle is shorter when they use menstrual cup because they are more aware of their flow and can better gauge the amount of blood they are losing. The above-stated benefits of menstrual cups only make the menstrual experience positive rather than directly impacting the length of the menstrual cycle. Menstrual cups are designed to collect menstrual blood rather than absorb it, as tampons and sanitary pads do. They do not interfere with the length of the menstrual cycle at all.
Factors such as personal hygiene practices, attentiveness to the menstrual flow, and most importantly YOUR personal choice in selecting a particular menstrual care product matter the most as some people might have a personal bias towards menstrual cups than those who are already using it during their cycles.
It is also important to note that changes in blood loss during periods, highlight a broader issue of inadequate menstrual education and also the lack of understanding of menstrual care issues. This could be due to hesitation in having a dialogue surrounding periods, especially in countries like India.
Conclusion
The variations in the length of the menstrual cycle or scanty periods is due to factors such as stress, changes in weight, hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions and not due to the use of menstrual cups, as there is no clinical research on the same. In case of concerns regarding the length of the menstrual cycle, it is advisable to consult with a gynecologist for proper evaluation and guidance. For more information, check out the Pee Safe website.
