The menstrual cup is a much cleaner alternative to tampons and pads. While the risk of infection decreases significantly, this does not mean that we should not be careful with the care of our cup. In this article we explain how to sterilize your cup and how to clean it while you are menstruating.
When to sterilize the menstrual cup
The first thing to do with your new cup is to sterilize it. To do this, all you have to do is boil it in water for 3 to 5 minutes. This process eliminates any dirt that may arrive during handling and transport.
After the first sterilization, it will only be necessary to sterilize the cup once a month, between menstrual cycles. You can choose between two times: do it when your menstruation ends, or do it before the next menstruation starts.
It is not advisable to sterilize it twice (before and after menstruation) because it can damage the material from which the cup is made. Once a month is enough. When you are not using it, the ideal is to store the cup in a cloth bag that allows air to pass through.
Where to sterilize my menstrual cup
One option for sterilizing your menstrual cup is in a container or kitchen utensil: a cup, pot, casserole dish, etc. Make sure it is used exclusively for your cup and that, while you boil it, it does not touch the bottom so that it does not get damaged.
Another option is to use a silicone sterilizing cup, which is becoming easier to find. The sterilizer will not damage your cup or alter its materials when subjected to the high temperatures of boiling water. It is usually collapsible, so you can store it with your cup.
How to sterilize my menstrual cup
Regardless of the method you use, you have three options:
- Boil water in a container and insert the menstrual cup.
- Place your cup in the sterilizer, boil water in a container and pour the boiling water into the sterilizer.
- Place your cup in the sterilizer, pour water to cover the cup and heat everything in the microwave for three minutes.
It is important that you do not leave your menstrual cup for more than 5 minutes because it can burn. If you forget that you left your cup sterilizing and when you return you see that it has changed color or texture, you will have to buy a new one, because it will no longer work.
How to clean the cup during menstruation
Clean water is all you need to clean your menstrual cup after taking it out to empty it and before putting it back in. One of the greatest benefits of the cup is that it does not alter the vaginal pH, which is the first barrier of protection against bacteria. Using any type of soap will only weaken and break the barrier.
You must not forget to wash your hands thoroughly before changing the cup. In this case, use soap, of course. Most infections related to the use of the cup have to do with hands that were not clean at the time of changing it, so be careful with your hygiene at all times.
When you have removed your full cup, empty it and then fill it with water. Cover it with one hand and press down so that the water runs out of the holes on the rim, thus also rinsing that part of your cup. Then just rinse it one last time with clean water and put it back in.
If you are away from home and think you will need to change your menstrual cup, take a bottle of water with you in case cleaning in the sink is not an option. If you can't bring liquids into the place you'll be either, fill an intimate hygiene wipe for cleaning, but it should be your last option!
What it does if your glass changes color
Keep in mind that this is a natural occurrence that will pass with use. Because of the blood, the menstrual cup may stain yellow or brown. This does not mean that it is dirty or no longer useful. If you want it to return to its original color, just leave it overnight in a glass of hydrogen peroxide. Just don't do it more than once a year because it can spoil.
To clean the cup pits you can also use an interdental cleaner exclusively for that purpose once a month. Remember not to use soap.
Now you have all the tools to to sterilize and clean your menstrual cup in the best way. Remember that, despite how cumbersome it may seem at first, the cup is a hygienic and totally safe option.
