Bringing a new life into the world is an unimaginable journey that comes with numerous changes in a person’s body. One of these changes is the return of menstruation postpartum. For those who are looking for an alternative to traditional menstrual products like pads and tampons, using a menstrual cup after giving birth can be a game-changer – especially for heavy and unpredictable flows. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of using a menstrual cup postpartum, considerations for choosing the right cup, how to properly insert and remove a cup, common concerns and FAQs about using a cup after giving birth, as well as tips for maintaining hygiene and care.

The Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup Postpartum

Using a menstrual cup after giving birth offers several advantages over traditional menstrual products:

1. Eco-Friendly: Menstrual cups are reusable, which means they significantly reduce waste compared to disposable products like pads and tampons. Menstrual cups like nixit’s reduces users’ waste by up to 99%!
2. Convenience: Menstrual cups can hold more fluid than tampons or pads, which means fewer changes throughout the day. This can be particularly helpful during the postpartum period when it feels like there’s no time for bathroom breaks.
3. Cost-Effective: While the initial cost of a menstrual cup may be higher than traditional products, in the long run, it can save money since it does not need to be restocked every month.
4. Reduced Risk of Infection: Menstrual cups are made of medical-grade silicone or latex, which are non-absorbent materials. This reduces the risk of infection compared to using tampons or pads, as they do not disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina. With all period products, there is a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome, but it is extremely small for menstrual cup users. Medical grade silicone is non-porous and therefore resists bacterial growth (unlike absorbent tampons which can create a breeding ground for bacteria.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Menstrual Cup

When selecting a menstrual cup postpartum, it is important to consider the following factors:

1. Size: After giving birth, the vaginal canal may be wider and the cervix may sit at a different height compared to before pregnancy.. While many cup brands offer different sizes, nixit’s menstrual cup is designed to conform to your body independent of your age, the length of your vaginal canal or how low or high your cervix sits.
2. Softness: Since the body goes through various changes after giving birth, it is advisable to opt for a softer cup to ensure comfort during insertion and removal. We love how soft and supple nixit is - 91% of our users rarely or never feel it when using it!
3. Capacity: Postpartum bleeding can be heavier than a regular menstrual flow. Choosing a menstrual cup with a higher capacity will ensure that it can accommodate the increased flow without needing to be emptied as frequently.
4. Brand Reputation: It is essential to choose a reputable brand that has been approved for medical use. Look for cups that have been tested for safety and effectiveness.

Remember that choosing the right cup may require some trial and error. It is normal to try different brands or sizes before finding the perfect fit for your postpartum needs.

How to Properly Insert and Remove a Menstrual Cup Postpartum

Inserting and removing a menstrual cup postpartum may be a different experience compared to pre-birth. Follow these steps for effective use:

1. Wash Your Hands: Before handling the cup, ensure that your hands are clean to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria into the vaginal canal.
2. Prepare the Cup: Some cups require different folding techniques you can use to insert the cup. nixit’s disc-style cup, requires only a slight squeeze of the opposite rims to glide in and down.
3. Relax and Find a Comfortable Position: Whether sitting, squatting, or standing with one leg raised, find a position that allows easy access to your vagina.
4. Insert the Cup: Gently guide the cup into the vaginal opening, angling it towards your tailbone.
5. Ensure Proper Placement: Depending on the type of cup you choose, you may need to run a finger around the cup’s base to check if it has fully opened and is positioned correctly in order to ensure a proper seal. With disc-style cups, you simply tuck behind your pubic bone. A properly placed cup should be comfortable and leak-free.
6. Removing the Cup: To remove the cup, wash your hands, slowly pull the cup out, tilting it slightly to prevent spills. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse and wash the cup, and reinsert if needed.

Remember to always read the manufacturer’s instructions specific to your menstrual cup and seek guidance from a healthcare professional if you encounter any difficulties.

Common Concerns and FAQs about Using a Menstrual Cup After Giving Birth

Using a menstrual cup after giving birth can raise several questions and concerns. Here are some frequently asked questions about using a cup postpartum:

1. How soon after giving birth can I start using a menstrual cup?

It is advisable to wait until your postpartum bleeding has stopped, which may take on average 4-6 weeks. However, every body is different, so it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making the switch.

2. Can I use a menstrual cup if I had a cesarean delivery?

Yes, you can use a menstrual cup after a cesarean delivery. However, it is crucial to wait until your postpartum bleeding has stopped, and your incision has fully healed before using a menstrual cup to avoid any potential irritation or infection.

3. Is it possible for the cup to get stuck?

While it is unlikely for a cup to get stuck inside the vaginal canal, it can sometimes move higher during insertion. Relax and use your pelvic floor muscles to gently push the cup down until you can reach the base to remove it.

4. Can I use a menstrual cup if I have pelvic floor weakness?

Using a menstrual cup is generally safe for individuals with pelvic floor weakness. Unlike traditional cups which sit in the vaginal canal, nixit sits at the base of the cervix and therefore may offer more structural stability for those whose muscles are weak. However, if you have any concerns or specific medical conditions, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

nixit menstrual cup

$42.00

At nixit, we make menstrual cups simple. Our disc-style menstrual cup is made from ultra soft silicone with a unique, one size fits all shape. No confusing sizes, no awkward folds.  A simple period cup design that conforms to you. Now FSA/HSA reimbursement… read more

Purple - $42.00 Teal - $42.00

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