Menstrual cups: they are safe, effective and economical

70% of women who have tried menstrual cups say they prefer to continue using them, according to a study published by the medical journal The Lancet Public Health.

This study brings together 43 previous works that covered 3,300 women and is the first to evaluate menstrual cups, little known device compared to feminine towels and tampons.

"In total, 1,900 million women worldwide are in menstrual age – and spend an average of 65 days a year managing their menstrual blood flow – and yet, few quality studies comparing the means of protection," did he declare. one of the authors of the study, Penelope Phillips-Howard, professor at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.

The researchers point out that many women in the world do not have access to these means of protection, which can be harmful to them at school, at work or in their daily lives.

Made of silicone or latex, the cups are inserted into the bad to collect menstrual blood. They must be emptied every four to twelve hours.

The study concluded that they are as effective as tampons, towels and which did not reveal any risk of further infection.

Five cases of toxic menstrual shock syndrome were observed, but since the total number of drinkers was unknown, the researchers could not determine if the risk was greater than that of tampons.

This syndrome is caused by a bacteria, staphylococcus aureus, and causes fever, low blood pressure and other potentially serious disorders (digestive, muscle, kidney).

To avoid this, health authorities recommend not to leave the same protection, buffer or cup for a long time.

The study also badyzed the cost of menstrual cups. In some countries, they cost less than a dollar and are 5 to 7% more expensive than a box of 12 towels or tampons. But in the long run, they are very economical because they can be reused and last up to ten years. In richer countries, some models can however cost up to 40 dollars. In Argentina, its price is $ 950.

"These results show that eyeglbades can be a safe and economical option for women," said Julie Hennegan, British public health specialist, in a commentary published by The Lancet Public Health.