Just how many times have we skipped our workout because of our periods? I know I have. Or at least had to change my plan to include something less intense. A walk replaced a run, Yoga replaced squats. Swimming was a no-no. That, in spite of being among the lucky few who do not (generally) have a painful menstrual cycle.
I switched to a menstrual cup about 3-4 years ago. By that time, I was already using a tampon for a few years and had almost sworn to never touch a pad again. A tampon was good enough for most workouts actually. Once I was comfortable with it, I could go for long runs or workout at the gym without any worry. But swimming was still a bit icky.
The cup solved this problem. In the last few years, I have been swimming with it, have done my first marathon with no problem, and workouts are a breeze (I mean I still get breathless and feel like I am dying but that has nothing to do with my cycle).
Every time I have spoken about the cup with friends or colleagues, they have had similar questions. So, I will try to answer them here, just in case any fellow-runner also finds it helpful.
Why did I make the switch?
A little bit for environmental consciousness, a little to save the hassle of buying pads or tampons every month but a lot because of comfort. I did not like the feeling of a pad, and certainly not the friction during runs. A cup is super comfortable (for me) and is almost helpful that I am on my periods.
Was it painful/ awkward?
I asked a few friends and watched videos before I tried it out. But still it felt a little weird at first. I think the first day, I thought I had lost it (inside me!) and panicked. An online blog suggested I relax because there was no way to lose the cup inside. So, yes, the first few times were a little bit of trial and error. But it’s second nature now.
Can it be uncomfortable during the workout/ long runs?
A cup can be worn for much longer. This depends on your flow, of course, but for a regular flow it can be used for 10-12 hours easily. Which means, even for ultra-distances, you might be able to go on without having to empty it out. It's not uncomfortable if it has been inserted properly. Maybe for beginners, a cup with a longer stem can be easier. But please, please, please make sure you are not allergic to silicone or rubber. If it is irritating to use it you might need to use a regular lube, or clean it again.
Is it safe?
It is safer than a tampon for sure. It doesn’t soak the blood, only collects it. This essentially translates to no risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome, a rare but dangerous bacterial infection associated with tampon use.
What should I consider before switching?
Find your right fit: There are a couple of options available right now in India, and many more abroad. See which fits you well. Once you find a good fit you can use it for as long as a decade! So, invest the time to find what feels right to you.
Check for Allergies: If you’re allergic to the materials used (usually listed on the packaging), it’s best to avoid menstrual cups.
Privacy Concerns: Though it demands a larger discussion, consider carefully if you will be comfortable using the cup for races where you do not have the privacy of a washroom. Most trail races do not have washrooms at the start/finish. Changing or emptying the cup in nature can be tricky if the race is longer such as an ultra-marathon. [If any race organiser is reading this, hint hint, we need to have washrooms or porta-loo’s at strategic points for any trail event as well. Please!]
A cup is a great thing if it works for you. But that does not mean it is the only solution. It can depend on your comfort level, your pelvic floor, your flow etc. Just like they say about periods, everyone has a different experience. So, try it out. And stick to it only if it makes you feel comfortable.
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