Menstrual cups or period underwear – which is better?

The world is rapidly advancing in the field of ecology and has created excellent alternatives to pads and tampons – period underwear and menstrual cups.


Reusable period underwear and menstrual cups are harmless to both the environment and women's health. Using such products is not only ecological but also economical, allowing you to save personal funds. But what to choose, period underwear or menstrual cups?

Midwife Jurgita Staniškienė

Are you choosing between menstrual cups and period panties? Or perhaps you want to learn something new? Jurgita Staniškienė, a midwife at the "Medicianos namai" clinic, shares her thoughts and insights.

Menstrual Cups

This is usually a bell-shaped cup that is inserted into the vagina. They are made from 100% medical-grade, hypoallergenic silicone. They are suitable for women who are allergic to other menstrual hygiene products. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, and if inserted correctly, no discomfort is felt. Once inserted, the cup creates a vacuum in the vagina, ensuring no leaks. Menstrual cups come in various sizes and shapes. They can also be used overnight. Depending on the manufacturer, a cup can be used for up to 10 years.

It is not recommended to use a menstrual cup during the first month after intrauterine device insertion due to a small risk of dislodging the IUD. Also, the cup can put more pressure on the bladder, leading to an increased urge to urinate. For this reason, it may not be suitable for women who experience urinary incontinence. The size of the cup may not be right the first time, and it may take several months to learn how to insert it correctly. When using this product, it is important to maintain proper care and hygiene to prevent vaginal infections.

 

Period Underwear

Period underwear is an innovative product that fundamentally changes the approach to women's hygiene. They are like regular underwear that not only absorb menstrual blood but are also suitable for women postpartum or those suffering from urinary incontinence or abundant discharge.

Wearing period underwear causes no discomfort. On the contrary, with period underwear, you will feel extremely comfortable, convenient, and secure. It feels like wearing regular, everyday underwear. Bleeding at night? Period underwear is an excellent choice for nighttime; you won't have to worry about leaks and can sleep in your most comfortable position.

Depending on different manufacturers, the care and washing of menstrual underwear are usually not complicated. After wearing, rinse the underwear under running water until the water runs clear, then put it in the washing machine and wash at 30°C. After washing, hang to dry naturally. Manufacturers often provide care instructions for underwear in their frequently asked questions pages

When wearing period underwear, no additional hygiene products are needed, as the underwear can be chosen according to the flow of menstruation, from very light to very heavy. The underwear is safe to wear for up to 12 hours, thanks to a special multi-layered gusset and an additional layer of material (usually merino wool), which is breathable, antibacterial, and prevents bacteria from multiplying.

Most manufacturers of menstrual underwear have a special OEKO-TEX certificate, which indicates that the products do not contain harmful substances. In addition, all products undergo various science-based procedures that ensure the stated functions of the product, i.e., product absorbency, air permeability, and that the product works effectively even after 100 washes.

 

What to choose?

Menstruation is a part of a woman's life, so it is very important to feel as little discomfort as possible during those days and to experience menstrual days more easily.

Period underwear absorbs blood, while a menstrual cup collects it. Menstrual cups have only one function—to collect menstrual blood. Period underwear performs various functions—it absorbs menstrual blood, is suitable for urinary incontinence, the postpartum period, or when experiencing abundant discharge.

Partners in Crime JJ (@partners_in_crime_jj)
video content featuring period underwear

Menstrual underwear and swimwear are innovative products that can serve women at various ages, from adolescence to menopause. 

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Obstetrician Jurgita Staniškienė also shares her accumulated knowledge, experience, and observations from the obstetrician's office with teenage girls and women on her Instagram account, take a look!