Seren started using a menstrual cup last year because she lives in a remote area where sometimes the nearest bathroom is miles away. Using the cup has freed her from needing to be near plumbing at all times, so she can go out and have all of her adventures in the wilderness with peace of mind. Once, on a six day river trip with four other girls, she found herself in a situation where they almost ran out of menstrual products for all of them and it came down to rationing tampons between the five of them. She knew that she needed to find a better alternative. Because of this experience, Seren made the switch and has never looked back. The benefits have been impactful on her ability to live her lifestyle. Some of her favorites are that it is far more cost effective, and the time constraints are not as tight as on a tampon’s use. There is no odor, she feels cleaner, and the cup is more comfortable than a pad or tampon. The risk of toxic shock syndrome, or TSS is eliminated with the use of the menstrual cup.
She says that making the switch initially was scary, but with time and practice it became usable. Seren compared the learning curve to that of switching from a pad to a tampon the first time and says that also took her a bit of time to learn. With a bit of dedication and research, Seren is confident that you will also be able to find a product and method that works for you too. “Don’t be afraid to use it,” she advises. “It’s alright to try the next day or even the next month. It is usable and meant to fit your body, so don’t be afraid that you are going to hurt yourself.”
