IS A MENSTRUAL CUP A GOOD
OPTION FOR ACTIVE WOMEN?
Anyone who experiences PMS knows how low energy levels can get right before periods. At one moment, you may be waltzing through your day, brimming with energy and motivation to help you through it. And all of a sudden, you hit rock bottom. The very next day, the energy that fueled you is gone. Why is that so?
Right before your period start, estrogen and progesterone levels are at an all-time low, accounting for the diminishing energy levels. This situation continues into the menstrual phase of your cycle. But this time, along with low hormone levels, blood loss also accounts for decreasing energy levels. Maintaining these energy levels becomes even more challenging for a woman leading an active lifestyle. Even more so, when working out during periods can get messy. Whether you use pads or tampons, a mixture of sweat and blood can become uncomfortable.
For instance, you may end up with chaffing if you wear a pad for a long time during intense workouts. Plus, there is always a fear of leaking through a pad or tampon since you will be moving a lot.
Menstrual cups may seem like a great alternate solution. For daily activities, menstrual cups provide adequate protection along with comfort. But what if you lead an active lifestyle and are always on the go? Are they a better alternative option for when working out?
The answer to this is yes, yes they are a better option for women on the go. Cups don't have a string, thus will not cause chaffing. Whereas cups only collect period blood and vaginal secretions, thus preventing dryness and irritation. And unlike with tampons and pads, you will not feel the presence of a cup within your vagina. Additionally, with a cup, you can partake in water sports even during heavy flow days and not worry about leaking. Or conveniently use it when you head outdoors for hiking or a camping trip.
The bottom line? Menstrual cups are reliable during activities and workouts.
Here are a few more answers to help you decide to continue using or start using a cup during intense activities.
But, will any menstrual cup do? If you frequently participate in high-intensity workouts and know that you have strong pelvic floor muscles, go for a firm menstrual cup; a menstrual cup that is firm is more likely to stay in place.
How long should I wear a cup during intense activities?
Although you can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours, it really depends on your menstrual flow and the type of activity you will be partaking in. If it is the early days of the cycle and your flow is heavy, empty it every couple of hours.
Before working out with a menstrual cup, is there anything I should do or know?
We recommend emptying the cup before working out. Going in with a full or half-filled cup will increase the chances of leaking. Furthermore, it will probably be a bit difficult to empty the cup during a workout.
THE VERDICT
For many women who are always on the go, comfort becomes a priority. And wearing a menstrual cup is very manageable. You won't have to worry about carrying an extra pad or tampon, and if your flow is light, you can continue wearing it for a longer time. Gone are the days of chaffed inner thighs and the fear of toxic shock syndrome.
With a menstrual cup, you will at least be stressing over one thing less when on your periods.
Our Story
Divine drops was started by a registered nurse who was personally feeling the pain and mental struggle of hormone imbalance and cycle shame. After traveling as a nurse she realized that the problem was bigger than just her. Girls all over the world were experiencing similar feelings but even worse they lacked the products needed to live a powerful period. This was limiting their future and full potential.
Since then she started Divine Drops, a nonprofit that provides cycle education and sustainable menstrual products to menstruators all over the world. You can make a purchase or donation today to help change the cycle.