Period Talk: Choosing Between a Menstrual Cup & Cloth Pads
by Caitlin McNickle
Are you interested in finding a more eco-friendly and reusable option for your period products? Look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss why reusable options like menstrual cups and cloth pads are not only great for your body but also for the environment. We'll also explore the cost-effectiveness of these alternatives.
The Pros and Cons of Using a Menstrual Cup
Let's start by looking at the pros and cons of using a Cup (like the Diva Cup), one of the most popular menstrual cup brands on the market.
Pros:
Eco-Friendly: Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone or latex, which means they can be reused for several years. By choosing a menstrual cup, you are significantly reducing waste compared to disposable tampons or pads during your period.
Cost-Effective: While the upfront cost of purchasing a menstrual cup may seem high, it is actually more cost-effective in the long run. You won't have to spend money on disposable products every month, saving you money over time.
Convenience: Once you get used to using a menstrual cup, it becomes incredibly convenient. You can wear it for up to 12 hours without needing to worry about leaks or changing it frequently.
Cons:
Learning Curve: Using a menstrual cup for the first time can be challenging. It may take some time to learn how to insert and remove it correctly. However, with practice and patience, most people find it easy to use.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Menstrual cups require proper cleaning and maintenance between uses. This includes ensuring they are stored in a clean and dry place.
Fit and Comfort: Finding the right size and fit can be tricky since everyone's anatomy is different. It may take some trial and error to find the cup that works best for you in terms of comfort and fit.
The Pros and Cons of Using Cloth Period Pads
Now let's explore the pros and cons of using Lil Helper Hyps Menstrual Pads, a popular brand of cloth pads.
Pros:
Eco-Friendly: Cloth pads are reusable and can last for several years with proper care. By choosing cloth pads, you are reducing your environmental impact by minimizing waste.
Comfortable: Cloth pads are often made from soft, breathable materials that are gentle on the skin. They provide a comfortable alternative to disposable pads, which can sometimes cause irritation.
Customizable Absorbency: With cloth pads, you have the option to choose different levels of absorbency based on your needs. This allows for a more personalized experience during your period.
Cons:
Washing and Drying: Cloth pads require regular washing and drying between uses. This may require additional effort compared to simply throwing away disposable pads after use.
Initial Investment: Similar to menstrual cups, there is an initial investment when purchasing cloth pads. However, this cost is quickly offset by the long-term savings since you won't need to buy disposable products every month.
Storage Space: Cloth pads take up more storage space compared to disposable options since you'll need to store them between cycles. They also take up more space than a cup.
The Benefits of Using Both Menstrual Cups and Cloth Pads Together for Your Period
Using both a menstrual cup and cloth pads together can be a great option, especially if you're new to using a menstrual cup. Here's why:
Extra Protection: By using both products simultaneously, you'll have added protection against leaks during heavy flow days or overnight.
Backup Option: If you're still getting used to inserting and removing a menstrual cup correctly, having cloth pads as a backup option can provide peace of mind and prevent any accidents.
Versatility: Depending on your flow and personal preference, you can alternate between using the menstrual cup and cloth pads throughout your cycle. This flexibility allows you to choose what works best for you on any given day.
In conclusion, both menstrual cups and cloth pads offer numerous benefits for your body, the environment, and your wallet. Whether you choose to use one or both of these reusable options, remember that it may take some time to find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to experiment and discover the combination that suits your needs perfectly!
Note: This blog post is not sponsored by Diva Cup.
From registered social worker and early childhood educator to Lil Helper guest blogger to our blog
content and Delight Customer Services Manager—and that’s all on top of being a proud mama to three.
Caitlin fell in love with Lil Helper after using cloth diapers for her first child and quickly combined
her longtime love of writing with her new passion for parenting and cloth diapering. She enjoys writing
about marriage, mental health, family, postpartum reality, and early childhood development. Besides
writing and connecting Lil Helper and customers together for meaningful solutions, Caitlin loves
thrifting, gardening, and momming.