MENSTRUAL CUP, silicone, reusable, medium
Valid Article
OC subscriptions: included in supply or field order tools (e.g. UniField)
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SC subscriptions: included in supply or field tools
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OC validations: approved for procurement and use by an OC for international or local orders specifying context and activity in Medical Standard Lists (MSL)
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MENSTRUAL CUP, silicone, reusable
Definition
A menstrual cup is a feminine hygiene product that is inserted into the vagina during menstruation as an alternative to pads and/or tampons. Its purpose is to collect (rather than absorb) the menstrual fluid. Menstrual cups are made of flexible medical grade silicone and shaped like a bell with a stem. The stem is used for insertion and removal. Every 4–12 hours (depending on the amount of flow), the cup is removed, emptied, rinsed, and reinserted. One cup is reusable for up to five years or more
GMDN: Menstrual cup, non-latex, reusable (47728)
Specifications
Technical specifications
CUP
- bell shaped
- material: medical grade silicone
- colour: no colour / translucent
- with rim
- may have grip rings or measuring lines
- other markings (decorations, brand names) are to avoid as they may complicate the cleaning
STEM
- type: flat, may have grip rings, may have a small ball at the end
- solid: avoids pooling of blood inside and allows trimming of the stem if wanted
- length: +/- 10 - 25 mm
Dimensions
sizes: small, medium and extra small (intended for use by adolescents)
The exact measurements differ according the model and manufacturer.
Sizes used by "Just a cup" (supplier used by several ESCs):
| extra small | small | medium | |
| capacity | 17 ml | 24 ml | 30 ml |
| diameter | 38.3 mm | 42.2 mm | 45.5 mm |
| cup length | 43.1 mm | 48.2 mm | 55.8 mm |
| total length | 62.8 mm | 70.3 mm | 76.3 mm |
Supplied with the Article
Most menstrual cups arrive with some sort of storage case, either a pouch or container with holes. A simple cotton drawstring bag is most common.
It is recommended to add a simple leaflet to explain how to use and clean the cup.
Instructions for use
Precautions for Use
- A menstrual cup will NOT prevent an unwanted pregnancy or protect against STIs
- If need for a lubrication while inserting a menstrual cup, use a water-based lubricant
- Hand washing is needed before inserting the cup
- Acceptance of feminine hygiene products that need to be inserted into the vagina depends on the cultural context.
Maintenance
Most Menstrual Cup companies suggest boiling their cup before the first use.
Any mild soap or “intimate” wash that does not contain perfumes, oils, or anti-bacterial properties should be fine to clean the cup.
Pay special attention to the air holes, if present, clean them thoroughly to ensure that blood is not left behind
Always rinse the cup in cold water first as to not set in stains. After all traces of blood are gone, you can use hot water for a good rinse.
Storage
Do not store the menstrual cup in an airtight container or Ziploc type bag as moisture has no way to evaporate.
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