Menstrual cup
A reusable cup worn inside the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. It is emptied, cleaned, and reinserted rather than discarded after each use.
Menstrual cup insertion: The process of folding and placing a menstrual cup inside the vagina so it opens and collects fluid. Insertion technique helps the cup open and form a seal for collection.
Menstrual hygiene management: The practices, products, facilities, and information used to manage menstruation safely and with dignity. A cup is one reusable product within the wider set of menstrual-care choices.
Tampon: An absorbent product inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid. Unlike a cup, a tampon absorbs fluid and is discarded after use.
Menstrual cup safety: The health considerations associated with menstrual cup use, including irritation, infection, and rare toxic shock syndrome. Safety depends on fit, hygiene, appropriate use, and prompt attention to symptoms.
Menstrual cup removal: The process of releasing a menstrual cup’s seal and taking it out for emptying. Removal usually involves pinching the base to break the seal before drawing the cup out.
Menstrual cup sizing: The selection of cup dimensions and capacity to suit anatomy, flow, and comfort. Sizing guides address fit, but labels such as small and large are not standardized.
Menstrual pad: An absorbent product worn outside the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. Pads require no insertion and collect fluid externally, unlike cups.
Toxic shock syndrome: A rare, potentially life-threatening illness caused by toxins produced by certain bacteria. Cases have been reported with menstrual cup use, although the condition is rare.
Menstrual cup capacity: The volume of menstrual fluid a cup can hold before it needs emptying. Capacity helps determine emptying frequency, especially on heavier-flow days.
Menstrual flow: The amount and pattern of blood and uterine tissue discharged during menstruation. Flow affects how often a cup may need emptying.