I lost my menstrual cup V today..

[MyBrownEyedHandsomeBoy]

I don't know how I feel about it in all honesty.. I didn't know menstrual cups existed until I came across a thread on here earlier this year, I decided to try it after seeing much praise on MN for them, also the fact I have heavy periods and often leak through the super tampons so I thought I'd give it a go.
I researched before trying so I knew how to insert, check if in place and how to remove. Was quite surprised I managed it first time round too! Bonus!

The good thing is, I didn't leak at all, didn't feel uncomfortable with it in either and I've emptied it twice today without major issues. Although I did find it a bit gross and messy to deal with. I struggled a little to "pop the seal", a bit of a faff rummaging for the seal to be able to pop it. I also felt a slight discomfort when trying to pop it to release. The suction was really strong which made me imagine the cupping therapy you have done on your back. It made me wonder if this thing could be bruising my insides? Like the suck off a love bite?? 🤔 and is this safe?
My DM hates the idea of it, told me the blood sitting there for hours just doesn't sound right and she reckons it could cause infection? Although, I do want to try it a few times to see how I get on with it and make my mind up then..

I don't really know what I'm asking for now I'm this far down, I suppose I'm asking for opinions on it (cons as well as pros plz)

And are the completely safe?

I switched about 3 years ago, never looked back. Far less cramping/pain. Medical grade silicone and your own blood which has been in there for the previous month - why would there be any more risk of infection than inserting anything else? (basic hygiene assumed)

I like mine, have used it for years. Can't imagine using anything else now. I can't see how the blood is any less safe/hygienic than when it's absorbed by a tampon or pad.

Thanks for that lovely graphic description.

I did wonder about the not having to change it for ages, but the blood is sitting in its own space if you see what I mean. It’s not touching anything as it’s inside the cup, whereas a tampon is touching your vaginal walls. Apart from the slight messiness when changing I love it. I only have to change morning and evening apart from a couple of perimenopausal blips so am home anyway. So much easier than tampons and pads.

Love mine. Heavy periods, only thing that doesn’t leak.

the suction thing, I imagine the suction drawing the blood out, which would reduce the time actually on my period. I don’t know if that’s a real thing. But it makes sense to me. There’s only so much blood, because it’s the lining of my womb, so the suctioning just helps it get out faster? That’s what I believe anyway.

🫣 Sorry 🤣

@Birdienumnumm hmm I did wonder this too actually if it 'helped' the flow speed up

Always break the suction before trying to remove it

I'd be worried about a prolapse.

If you e already got a small uterine prolapse, wouldn't the suction possibly make it worse?

I've used one for about 10 years now and would never go back. The first time I used one I thought it was stuck inside me and almost went to a&e after hours of trying to get it out. Luckily I called my friend who had one she talked me through the process of breaking the seal.

I just wiggle mine about as I yank it out tbh. The seal isn't that strong that it's going to pull your insides out! Well not IME of numerous years of using one. I couldn't be without it now.