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Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with Softcup. I did receive compensation. All opinions are my own.
Softcup has come in [2] and out of my life over the past few years and I have to admit that I’m glad it’s back again [3].
Softcup [4] is a menstrual cup. Never heard of a menstrual cup? Softcup [5] is a flexible cup, worn internally around your cervix (do you know where your cervix is?), that collects rather than absorbs menstrual flow. It replaces the need for tampons and pads if used properly.
I can feel all the cringing as you’re reading this. Stick with me-this is important on so many levels.
There are actually two Softcup options:
- Disposable which can be worn for up to 12 hours and is then discarded, and
- Reusable which can be worn for up to 12 hours and reused throughout one menstrual cycle.
I’m a fan of the reusable option.
Personal Benefits of SoftCup
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I’ve put Softcup to the test during a workout [7] and while downhill skiing [3]. It can be worn during any activity including sports, swimming and while sleeping.
I started using a reusable Softcup [8]a few years ago and the journey has been interesting. There were times when I went back to my organic tampons for no reason other than they were close by. But I keep returning to my reusable Softcup. It took a few cycles to get it right [9], but it’s so worth it. This month I’m feeling completely comfortable and can finally say that I have successfully greened my period.
Once Softcup is inserted properly you really can’t feel it. This isn’t the case with tampons-we always know when they’re around. Also, Softcup isn’t linked to Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) and does not cause dryness or irritation.
Softcup doesn’t contain latex, silicone, phthalates, BPA, PVC or dioxins.
Environmental Benefits of Softcup
Fifty to 70 percent of American women use tampons. A typical woman can use anywhere between 8,000 to 17,000 tampons in her lifetime. The number varies quite a bit since every woman is unique and her cycle is different. The average woman throws away up to 300 pounds of feminine hygiene related products in a lifetime. That’s a tremendous amount of waste. Then there’s the plastic wrapper around the tampon box or pads and the paper or plastic packaging around every box and individual tampon or pad. I haven’t even mentioned the cardboard or plastic applicator. So much waste.
The process to make each and every tampon and pad also involves a lot of waste. The cotton alone is resource intensive as the farming of cotton requires large amounts of water, pesticides and fertilizer.
A final added Softcup bonus: For every box of Softcup you buy, Softcup will donate a reusable cup to a woman or girl in Africa. You can find out more about Project Dignity HERE.
Phew. You made it! Are you hooked or at least open to giving Softcup a try (or passing the info on to any women in your life)?
P.S. If you liked this post you might enjoy our Groovy Green Livin Newsletter [10]. Receive new posts and special opportunities delivered right to your inbox! Sign up HERE [10].
Disclosure: I received product and compensation from SoftCup for this post, but the opinions are my own.