Irritation days after cup use
Hi, I’m pretty new to the cup world. I tried a cheap one a few months ago and generally liked it-until I had itching and irritation towards the end, extending a week after the last removal. This time, I decided on a Flex cup. Again, no issues for 3-4 days, then irritation began. It has now been nearly a week post cup removal and I am still itching and irritated. I think it may have something to do with removal-it felt difficult to get out, and uncomfortable, each time. I heard you can fold it inside of you for easier removal. Has anyone else had experience with this?
Hello There!
First of all, welcome to the world of menstrual cups. I know it hasn’t been 100% perfect yet, but I hope that I can help brainstorm some solutions for your issue.
Cheap cups are always a gamble. Even if the company states that it’s made with medical-grade silicone, it’s not always true. They can also skip steps in the manufacturing (curing) process that can result in leaving volatiles in the silicone.
As for the Flex Cup, it has a grippy, textured finish, (IMO) that doesn’t always allow the silicone to slide in and/or out with ease. With silicone such as this, I can sometimes feel it tug and pull when I’m dry. It’s like it chafes me (like a rug burn).
I’m not sure if this is the case with you, but you can try some water-based lubricant during the inserting process as well as a bit during removal. As you mentioned, folding it slightly before removing it might also help it keep from rubbing against your sensitive tissues.
– Bring the cup near the vaginal opening until you can reach the base. Then insert a single finger or your thumb, to slightly collapse the side of the cup. This can also help keep the cup from brushing up against your urethra (which can be painful during removal).
Another thing that might be causing the itching is the soap/wash that you’re using. Either try a different soap/wash or only use water to rinse your cup off really well.
Some individuals find that they’re sensitive to every wash that they use on their genitals and only use water to wash with. Boiling your cup at the end of your period will keep it fresh if you feel it needs it.
Good Luck <3
Red Herring
@redherringtv
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