Do
you find sanitary napkins very uncomfortable to use? Been using tampons
but are afraid of Toxic Shock Syndrome? Don't like the idea of loading
the world's sewage systems and landfills with disposables and paper?
But simply don't know what else to do about your menstrual needs? Chin
up! As with most other things in our fine world, we are lucky to have
alternatives - the Mooncup is one.
What is the Mooncup?
The
Mooncup is a bell-shaped menstrual cup around two inches long and made
from soft silicone. It is made in the UK and worn internally. It
forms a seal with your vaginal walls, allowing your menstrual fluid to
pass into the Mooncup without leakage or odour.
Best of all, when you wear it, you can't feel it!
Why is it better?
The Mooncup contains no bleaches, deodorisers or absorbency gels. It
does not interfere with your healthy vaginal environment, nor has it
been associated with toxic shock syndrome.
The smooth surface of the Mooncup allows the mucus membranes of your
vaginal wall to continue their essential cleansing and protective
functions. It does not absorb your body's natural defence mechanisms
and will not deposit fibres in your vaginal wall.
For your safety, the Mooncup is made from a special medical grade
non-allergic silicone - the kind heart valves and catheters are made of
-- and will not cause irritation. It is suitable for women who have an
allergy to rubber products. The Mooncup can be cleaned in the same way
as baby equipment: with sterilising fluid or boiling.
Unlike pads and tampons the Mooncup is reusable, eliminating the need
to carry bulky spares. With proper care your Mooncup will last for at
least ten years -- imagine the towels and tampons that you will be
disposing of in landfill sites during that time, not to mention the
burden on your wallet!
How do I use it?
To put it simply, in just three steps: Wash, relax, insert.
Correctly inserted, the Mooncup is so comfortable that you will forget
it exists. It may take a little practice at first, as you need to find
the angle and position that is right for you.
Once
you have perfected it you will be amazed at how simple the Mooncup is
to use. You will need to empty, rinse or wipe and reinsert your Mooncup
every 4 to 8 hours depending on your flow. The fluid remains inside
the cup, and the process is not messy or uncomfortable.
The Mooncup can safely be used overnight and is great for all sports, swimming and traveling.
Which size is right for me?
Mooncups are available in two sizes:
Model A - After Childbirth
For women who have given birth vaginally OR are aged 30 and above.
Model B - Before Childbirth.
For women who have not given birth vaginally (this includes c-sections) AND are under 30.
Still not convinced?
Initially you may find the idea of the Mooncup unattractive and scary.
Perhaps it is messy, uncomfortable or unhygienic? This is a consistent
first reaction to the menstrual cup, and one well worth reconsidering.
Most of us have grown up in an era, which offered no alternative to
disposable feminine hygiene products, and this fact has contributed to
the way in which we think about our periods and menstruation. However,
the benefits of using the Mooncup and the rave reviews of users in
the UK have prompted Mummysmilk to bring it in.
Still not sure? Click on testimonials to read about other women's experience with the Mooncup! At the same time, Mooncup
Ltd. has set up a comprehensive advice service which you can contact if
you have any other queries about any aspects of Mooncup use. If you are
unhappy with your Mooncup in any way, you can also contact them at advice@mooncup.co.uk.
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a type of blood poisoning that will make
you feel severely ill very quickly. TSS is caused by the common
bacteria Staphylococcus aureus which normally lives harmlessly on
the skin and in the nose, armpit, groin or vagina of one in every three
people.
Anyone can get TSS although it is very rare. Half of reported cases in
the UK were from women who used tampons. About 2 or 3 people die of TSS
in the UK each year. Younger people are more susceptible to TSS than
older people, as they would have built up more antibodies to fight it.
The symptoms are like a severe flu - dizziness, fever, vomiting, muscle
aches, and confusion. It is VERY important that you go straight to a
doctor if you suspect you are suffering from TSS.
Research suggests that for cases that occur in women using tampons, tampon absorbency is a factor.
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