Someone asked us:

In a recent post you talked about menstrual options for younger people. May I recommend the menstrual cup as an alternative to pads and tampons? They’re simply the best for the environment, our wallets, and our bodies, and I think that it is very important to introduce these less mainstream options to new menstruaters.

Ah, the menstrual cup! The hidden gem of the menstrual product world!

You’re right, we should have mentioned the cup. The menstrual cup is a latex or silicone bell-shaped cup that’s inserted into the vagina. It’s kept in place by the walls of the vagina and collects menstrual fluid. You empty it every 12 hours.

Putting a menstrual cup in your vagina shouldn’t be painful. But it may take some practice. Some people report that it takes a cycle or two before they really develop their menstrual cup Zen.

If you’re a parent and you want to talk to your teen about the menstrual cup, here’s a helpful video. 

-Nathan at Planned Parenthood