![https___www.freedomcups.org_shop_freedom-cup-mini-tx2f2-cr9hr](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/https___www.freedomcups.org_shop_freedom-cup-mini-tx2f2-cr9hr.jpg)
Menstrual cups
A menstrual cup is a soft, flexible silicon cup that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual discharge (commonly referred to as “blood”).
Why use a FREedom cup
![feather](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/feather.png)
![blood-drop](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/blood-drop.png)
![happy](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/happy.png)
![care](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/care.png)
![sustainable](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/sustainable.png)
Comfortable
It is easy to forget you are on your period
Leak-proof
Because it collects rather than absorbs discharge, leaking with a cup is less likely
Easy
Cups can be used for twice as long as a tampon
Kind
For every Freedom Cup you buy, one is donated to a women or girl in need
Sustainable
Save water, cotton, and electricity by using the same product for years
How to use a menstrual cup
Using a menstrual cup is easy with practice.
You can see a step-by-step guide from the company OrganiCup on the left, but here are some general tips:
- Squat down and relax before inserting
- Don’t do it too quickly – the cup needs time to “pop”
- Feel free to practice when you’re not on your period
- Try out various fold to find one that fits you – here are some suggestions below:
![Screenshot 2021-02-05 at 2.01.47 PM](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/Screenshot-2021-02-05-at-2.01.47-PM.png)
![Screenshot 2021-02-05 at 2.02.20 PM](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/Screenshot-2021-02-05-at-2.02.20-PM.png)
![Screenshot 2021-02-05 at 2.02.29 PM](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/Screenshot-2021-02-05-at-2.02.29-PM-1.png)
![Screenshot 2021-02-05 at 2.02.38 PM](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/Screenshot-2021-02-05-at-2.02.38-PM.png)
![Screenshot 2021-02-05 at 2.01.55 PM](https://portfolios.uwcsea.edu.sg/gep/files/2019/04/Screenshot-2021-02-05-at-2.01.55-PM.png)
7 Fold
C Fold
Punchdown Fold
S Fold
Diamond Fold
Things to keep in mind before buying
Potential side-effects:
- May increase menstrual cramps or decrease them
- Irritation may occur but can be preventing by applying water-based lubricant when inserting
Choosing the right cup:
- Different sizes depending on your life circumstances. In order of increasing sizes: Teenagers, adults who have not given birth vaginally, adults who have given birth vaginally
- Firmness: Firm cups are easier to make them pop, but may press against the bladder painfully. Soft cups are harder to make them pop but are less likely to be painful
- Materials: Some cups contain BPA do be aware of any allergies you have
Alternatives to Freedom Cups:
- Period-proof underwear
- Reusable pads
- Other menstrual cup brands such as MermaidCup, Saalt, and OrganiCup