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Here, we provide answers to common questions about our organization, mission, programs, and ways you can get involved.
What is a menstrual cup?
Stated simply, a menstrual cup is a reusable sanitary
product worn inside the vagina that collects flow rather than absorbing it. Cups come in all sizes and shapes to fit the wearer and their lifestyle, and are made from medical grade silicone. They are a safer, healthier, waste free and comfortable way to manage your period.
Can anyone wear a cup?
YES! Any and all girls and women can use a cup.
Luckily there are all sizes, shapes, and styles of moon cups. Once you start your period, one cup can last you for ten years and it’s fit for mothers, workers, teens, young girls and university students.
Is wearing a cup messy?
Not at all! There should be very little leakage,
especially after you get used to it. Even when removing the cup you should have little to no blood on your hands- remove while over the toilet or anywhere.
Easy instructions of how to use a menstrual moon cup by Great being a girl.
Is inserting the cup painful or difficult?
NO! It should not be painful, there are many ways to fold the cup to the proper size so it goes in smoothly. Honestly, it can be a bit scary the first few times. Many of us are not used to touching our body parts or may be upset by blood. If once inserted, you experience any pain or discomfort, take it out, take a breath and try again.
Can you feel the cup while wearing it?
When you have a cup that fits your body, it should be very comfortable and undetectable.
Can a cup get lost inside me?
No. At the end of your vaginal canal is the cervix
(the opening to the uterus) and it won’t allow anything past it… except sperm. If your cup is “lost” and you can’t reach it, it’s not going anywhere so use your muscles and once you reach it, pinch the base to break the seal and remove.
Will I lose my virginity if I use the cup?
NO! The cup is simply not long enough to reach your hymen which is the “seal that is broken” when you lose your virginity.
What if I have to go to the toilet /loo/choo?
Well that will certainly happen but you need not worry. Females have 3 holes, first in front is for urine/pee, then comes your vagina for menstruation, sex and babies and third is your anus where feces/poop comes out. If you are really working for a “long call” you may find the cup feels like it’s sliding out, in which case, just take it out, finish the job, rinse and reinsert.
Does it smell?
No. Blood typically only has an odor when it comes into contact with oxygen which is why pads can be so stinky. You may notice the scent of blood when you take it out. Remember blood is natural! Nothing scary.
What do I do with the blood?
Sometimes it seems like there is SO much blood when you have your period but it’s actually only about a tablespoon usually! Blood is a natural substance that keeps us all alive and nothing to be scared of. When you remove the cup, try and keep it pointing up so you can tip the blood into the loo or even on the ground. Blood is good for the soil. Rinse or wipe the blood out, then reinsert.
Can I trim the stem?
Yes! For many, the stem can be annoying and isn’t required for removal.That said, be sure that you can reach the cup before trimming. If you have a high cervix, removing the stem could make the cup difficult to reach if the body of the cup is not long enough on its own.
How will I know when the cup is full?
Cups can be worn safely for up to 12 hours. We recommend using a pad at night until you are very comfortable and checking it during the day when you first start using a cup.
Is removal of the cup painful?
Not usually. In some cases removing the cup causes discomfort or even some pain since it’s not folded the way it is on insertion. If this happens try removing the cup (while over a toilet or in the shower) at an angle. The opening of the cup should be diagonal as you remove versus straight up and down. This reduces the overall width at removal.
Can I wear the cup while running or exercise?
Yes! Running, swimming and any exercise is carefree while wearing a cup. If you are very active you may prefer a firmer cup, as these stay in place better against any muscle contractions made while exercising.NO! The cup is simply not long enough to reach your hymen which is the “seal that is broken” when you lose your virginity.
How long do menstrual cups last?
Great Being a Girl cups last 10 years. We suggest replacing your cup only when you have a change of sexual habit (from 10ml small to 15ml small) or when you have a baby (too large) or if it shows signs of deterioration, like becoming chalky, cracked, or sticky. A stained cup does not need to be replaced simply due to discoloration.
Can cups cause infection or TSS?
Great Being a Girl cups last 10 years. We suggest replacing your cup only when you have a change of sexual habit (from 10ml small to 15ml small) or when you have a baby (too large) or if it shows signs of deterioration, like becoming chalky, cracked, or sticky. A stained cup does not need to be replaced simply due to discoloration.
What happens if I leave my cup in too long?
Cups can be safely worn for up to 12 hours. If you do forget and wear it longer, change it as soon as you remember. Cups do not create the toxic environment that tampons can but they still need to be changed as directed. You may be interested to know that medical grade silicone refers to silicone and dye that has been tested to be safe for implantation in the human body for several weeks. Basically this means that they are thoroughly tested for safety at extreme lengths that you would never intentionally replicate.
What are the potential risks of using a cup?
Allergic reactions. Menstrual cups are typically made from medical-grade silicone or latex-free rubber, but some individuals may be allergic to these materials. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, redness, swelling, and discomfort. If the cup is inserted improperly, on rare occasions, it can interfere with the kidney or bladder, we can only imagine this would be very uncomfortable and you would notice. It’s important to note that these risks are generally rare, and millions of women use menstrual cups safely and effectively. If you experience any unusual symptoms or concerns, please consult with your teacher or a healthcare professional.
Where can I buy a menstrual cup?
Menstrual cups in Kenya are sold in all major supermarkets.
Are menstrual cups approved by the authorities
Yes, the national health authority has approved menstrual cups and are available to buy and use in Kenya.
How do i clean my cup
Just water, warm or cold. You should be washing your cup at least once every 10-12 hours and every time you empty it.. Soak in very hot water to sterilize for about 10minutes, then rinse with fresh hot water. Repeat the sterilizing after every period cycle and store in a cotton clean cup bag.
