Menstrual cups and toxic shock syndrome: what you need to know
The short version:
Menstrual cups are safe to use. As with any period care product, it is absolutely necessary to keep it clean, don’t leave it in too long and to use a trusted brand.
The truth behind the science:
Every so often a clickbait article headline graces our newsfeeds which admittedly can be difficult to ignore. Recently a French study has been quoted on menstrual cups having increased risk of TSS.
A big claim right? Menstrual cups have been a trusted period care product for decades. There are globally only few cases of TSS in connection with menstrual cup use that have been reported since their invention in the 1930s. These were possibly caused by prolonged use.
Behind the article headline, the truth about the study is that:
- Instead of being performed using actual human vaginas they used sterile plastic bags derived from hydrocarbon. Doesn’t take a great scientist to realise the flaw there! Our vaginas are wonderfully more complex both physically and chemically than...er...a bag.
- The study hasn’t even been concluded yet.
- Contrary to what has been reported in the press, the only conclusion to be made from the study thus far is that no periodic system is more favourable to TSS development than another.
So, what’s the real deal?
Here’s what you really need to know about menstrual cups and TSS:
Are menstrual cups more dangerous to use than tampons?
Nope!
Do menstrual cups protect you from TSS?
Like with any period care product you cannot have zero risk of TSS. But a clean, properly-used menstrual cup means the chances are very small.
Should I continue to use my menstrual cup at night?
Sure thing! 10 to 12 consecutive hours is the recommended usage time.
How can I make sure my menstrual cup is clean enough?
Check out this handy guide for your peace of mind.
Are Lunette menstrual cups safer to use than other menstrual cups?
Always choose a trusted brand and with Lunette you’re in safe hands. Our cups are made from the highest medical grade silicone which is BPA free and no chemicals.
Have any other questions?
Leave a comment below or ask us on Twitter or Facebook.
Let's keep busting the myths and spreading the word!
2 comments
Hi Lanay!
Thank you for reaching out to us for some useful tips and tricks! It does take a couple of cycles to really get the hang of using your cup, but we know you’ll be a pro in no time!
When removing the cup it’s helpful to acknowledge that it’s impossible to lose your cup inside of you—phew!
For removal, 1) Make sure your hands are washed so that you don’t transfer any germs into your vagina, 2) Locate the stem of the cup and move your fingers up until you can pinch the bottom of the cup to release the suction, and then pull the cup out, 3) Whether you are standing in the shower or sitting to remove the cup, use the muscles you would use to take a #2 (poop) or to push out a little menstrual cup baby!
I personally find that sitting on the toilet or squatting is the easiest for removal. In the morning or after a 12 hour day, your cup might feel like it has moved up inside of you—this is a great time to use those muscles to push the cup down so that you can easily get a grip on it.
Please let us know if you need any more suggestions! We are always here to help, and want to make sure you have the utmost success when using your cup!
xx
I’ve just got my lunette cup last month, while I was almost done with my period. I just got my period today and tried again, although I had a bad experience last month. Putting it in is a breeze now, but taking it out took me 30 minites. Until I found out my position. Squat. I felt like I was having a baby. ? and I couldn’t grasp the tail of the cup. Slippery fingers and firm cup. With a little practice, I think I could work it out with the cup. Do you have any other suggestions? I’ve watched tons of videos and no help. And I’ve been getting cramps when laying down with the cup inside me. It feels like I’m bloated. I’m not leaking so I think I have it in right. What am I doing wrong?
