Which Is Better: Tampon or Menstrual Cup?

You must have often wondered what is better for you: tampons or menstrual cups? 

As per research, both tampons and menstrual cups have been around since the 1930s. But, back then, tampons were perceived to have better commercial potential, and hence, they were rigorously marketed.

Wearing sanitary napkins posed limitations to women for undertaking various physical activities such as swimming and dancing. Tampons became famous among women who were always on the go. The risk of leakage and staining is minimized to a great extent with tampons, as you don’t need to fret over the pad being displaced while engaging in any rigorous physical activity.

But lately, menstrual cups are gaining immense recognition due to their numerous benefits. Also, women are getting more conscious about the menstrual waste contributing to landfill waste. The process of disposing of menstrual waste is complex, and it takes years for the waste to get completely decomposed.

Now, amid this predicament, the menstrual cup has arrived like a knight in shining armour for women. It indeed is a revolution in the field of menstrual hygiene as it helps a woman combat most of her period woes.

Are Menstrual Cups Better Than Tampons?

In the battle of tampons vs menstrual cups, have you decided on the winner? Well, there’s nothing in this world that is perfect. Everything has both pros and cons. Moreover, a product that suits one may not suit the other.

So, get ready for the menstrual cup vs tampon face-off. 

Tampons – what are they?

A tampon is a menstrual product that needs to be inserted into the vagina to absorb the menstrual fluid. 

Tampons are typically ‘use and throw’ menstrual products that need to be changed just like a normal sanitary napkin. 

Advantages of Tampons

• Tampons are disposable: 

Just like a sanitary napkin, you can easily dispose of a tampon in a dustbin. You may try out Carmesi 100 % organic cotton tampons that are soft, prevent rashes, and are biodegradable.

• Tampons allow you to participate in various physical activities: 

Compared to a pad, a Sirona FDA Approved Premium Digital Tampon can give you better freedom of movement and allow you to indulge in physical activities such as swimming, biking, and dancing without any fear of staining or leakage.

• Tampons do not interfere with IUDs: 

If you are using an IUD (intrauterine device), rest assured that the tampon won’t interfere with it. An IUD doesn’t stay in the vagina; it stays in the uterus. Whereas, a tampon stays in the vagina.

Disadvantages of Tampons

• Tampons can disrupt the vagina’s pH balance: 

Tampons absorb the menstrual fluid, along with the natural vaginal moisture. This, in turn, can lead to an imbalance in the vagina’s natural pH levels.

• Tampons can irritate the skin down there: 

Several tampons come with artificial fragrances that can cause skin rashes or itching, which is very annoying.

• A tampon needs to be changed every 4-8 hours: 

To avoid TSS (toxic shock syndrome), you must change the tampon every 4-8 hours. 

Here is a complete guide about how to use tampons safely.

What is a Menstrual Cup?

It is a funnel-shaped cup made with silicone or latex that is to be inserted into the vagina to collect blood during periods. It’s an eco-friendly product.

Advantages of using a menstrual cup

• A menstrual cup doesn’t disrupt the vaginal pH: 

The Sirona menstrual cup is typically made with medical-grade silicone that collects the blood, doesn’t disrupt the skin’s natural pH level, and causes no rashes or infection down there.

• A menstrual cup can last as long as 10+ years:

 For example, the Sanfe menstrual cup, if used properly, can last as long as 10+ years. This saves you from splurging on pads or tampons every month.

• A menstrual cup can hold the blood for about 10-12 hours:

You wouldn’t need to change the Pee Safe Reusable Menstrual Cup as often as a regular sanitary pad or a tampon. The menstrual cup can provide a rash-free, leak-proof and odour-free experience for women.

• You can grab better sleep:

 The Carmesi menstrual cup is a soft and comfortable cup. You wouldn’t even realize that you are wearing one, and can doze off worry-free during the leak week.

  Disadvantages of a Menstrual Cup

• Using a menstrual cup isn’t very convenient with improper washroom facilities:

 If you do not have access to clean washrooms when you are menstruating, it can be a herculean task to empty the menstrual cup, clean it and reuse it. 

• You might take a while to get used to it: 

Since a menstrual cup collects the blood, you might take a while to get over the nauseating feeling while emptying the cup. In addition, you would need a bit of practice to insert and remove the cup without causing any spillage or leaks.

Tampons vs Menstrual Cups

Well, if you are looking for the champ among these two, unfortunately, there’s none. 

Undoubtedly, a menstrual cup can hold up more blood as compared to a sanitary napkin or a tampon, doesn’t add to the landfill waste and irritation, vaginal odour, and rashes. Also, it is typically a one-time investment that can save you from splurging on tampons or sanitary napkins every month. But, this doesn’t imply that tampons are inferior. There are times when you can’t afford to clean the menstrual cup and reuse it. Also, there are times when you can’t wear a pad, and live with the fear of it getting displaced. Those are the times when the tampon is an undisputed winner.

So, there’s no one size fits all when it comes to choosing a tampon or menstrual cup. Try out both and use the menstrual aid that makes you carry yourself the best during your period.

Explore Purplle for the best brands of tampons and menstrual cups

Check out Purplle for their incredible range of tampons and menstrual cups that can help you survive the period week stress-free. In addition, explore Purplle for the best brands of skincare and beauty products at amazing deals and discounts!