5 menstrual cup myths that might be holding you cack!
There are so many myths about menstrual cups and menstruation. Does blood flow back into the womb when the cup is full? Can virgins use period cups? We’re here to clear the air and bust the most common myths so you can make informed choices about your body.
Separate the fact from the fiction!
1. MYTH: When the cup is full, the blood flows back into the uterus.
TRUTH: Nope! Menstrual blood flows through the tiny opening in the cervix into the vagina, where it’s collected by the cup. The uterus actively pushes blood out - gravity has nothing to do with it. Even if you’re upside down, blood can’t flow back into the womb.
2. MYTH: You can't use a menstrual cup if you have endometriosis.
TRUTH: False! Menstrual cups are safe to use if you have endometriosis. Just check in with your doctor first to make sure it’s the right fit for your body. Read our article ‘What is endometriosis?’ for more insights.
3. MYTH: Virgins cannot use menstrual cups.
TRUTH: Not true! People who haven’t had penetrative sex can absolutely use a menstrual cup. The vagina may feel narrower and the hymen might still be present, but these aren’t barriers to cup use. You might need a bit of practice at first and that’s totally normal.
4. MYTH: You can’t pee or poo with a menstrual cup inserted.
TRUTH: You can! The cup sits in the vaginal canal and doesn’t block the urethra or rectum. Just make sure it stays in place during bowel movements. If you prefer, you can remove it beforehand for comfort and hygiene. Wash your hands before reinserting the clean cup.
5. MYTH: You don’t need to boil your menstrual cup after every cycle.
TRUTH: Kind of. While boiling after every cycle isn’t mandatory, it’s highly recommended. Before your first use, boil your cup for 5 minutes to sterilize it. After each cycle, 3–5 minutes is enough. Avoid hand sanitizers or harsh soaps. Instead, use cup wipes made specifically for menstrual cups free from oils, dyes, and fragrances. And always practice good hand hygiene.
If you’ve still got a question, or want to read more about the things people are curious about, check out our article ‘Everything you’ve ever wanted to ask your OB/GYN’.
photo: courtesy of Pinterest
