A woman experienced temporary kidney problems due to a misaligned menstrual cup, prompting doctors to advise on proper usage and sizing of menstrual cups to prevent potential health risks.
The Importance of Proper Use for Menstrual Cups: Doctors Issue Warnings
The Importance of Proper Use for Menstrual Cups: Doctors Issue Warnings
Health experts are emphasizing the need for correct usage and sizing of menstrual cups following a recent incident of kidney issues linked to misuse.
Doctors are urging women to exercise caution when using menstrual cups after a woman experienced kidney issues attributed to improper use. The patient, in her 30s, suffered from intermittent pelvic pain and blood in her urine for several months, which she did not connect to the menstrual cup—an increasingly popular reusable device for managing menstrual flow. Danish medical professionals highlighted that while these cases are extremely rare, misalignment of the cup can put pressure on adjacent anatomical structures such as the ureters, the tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Proper selection of cup size and shape is crucial, and medical experts have pointed out that correct positioning during insertion is vital to avoid complications. The incident underscores the need for comprehensive informational resources available to users since menstrual cups can be used without direct medical consultation.
Menstrual cups, made from soft silicone or rubber, can hold 20 to 30 ml of fluid and are designed to be emptied, cleaned, and reused multiple times throughout one menstrual cycle. While they present an eco-friendly alternative to traditional sanitary products, many first-time users report difficulties, especially with removal. According to a survey involving 530 young individuals, many struggled on their initial attempt to remove the cup and needed assistance.
To safely operate a menstrual cup, physiotherapist Dr. Kate Lough emphasizes that it is essential to break the suction seal by squeezing the base rather than pulling on the stem. She notes that with practice, women will typically find both insertion and removal more manageable. "When fitted correctly, menstrual cups should not cause discomfort," she reassured.
With a variety of sizes and shapes available, it is advisable for users to experiment with different models to find one that suits their body shape. Recent users of contraceptive devices, such as coils, should also consider potential risks alongside the use of menstrual cups, as the suction might dislodge them. In cases of uncertainty, professionals recommend utilizing additional contraceptive measures and seeking health consultations.
Additionally, menstrual discs offer a different option, positioned higher in the vaginal canal, just below the cervix, providing users with even more choices for comfort and utility during their menstruation.
