Menstrual Cup and Women Empowerment
Menses is a sensitive issue. Every woman experiences cramps, uneasiness, pain, and irritability during periods. While working on women’s empowerment, handling the issues related to menses is mandatory. Hence, we have chosen to create awareness about the use of Menstrual Cups and provide more than 500 cups to the women residing in the slum areas in Pune.
We are not only creating awareness about ‘How to use the cups’ but also creating awareness about ‘Why to use the cups’.
Here are some facts about why cups are beneficial to use-
Cost-Effective: According to the National Library of Medicine, a woman gets approximately 450 menstrual cycles in her life course. That comes to (450 menstrual cycles * 4 days of active blood flow * 8 menstrual products like pads or tampons in each period) approximately 14,400 menstrual products. This does cost lots of money. However, cups are way cheaper and more durable.
Environmental Friendly: Women are aware of the use of pads and tampons. However, many women are unaware of the discarding method of pads and tampons. Improperly discarded menstrual material can harm animals on roads, clog landfills and waterways, and be hazardous to the health of daily waste collectors. Also, if a woman switches to the cups, the waste of cotton and paper can be controlled. Cups are easy to clean and reusable.
Health Benefits: Using cups can help get rid of rashes caused due to sanitary napkins. It prevents itching and wetness. It balances the vaginal PH, unlike tampons. No leaks, no foul odour, no irritation, and gives protection for 8–12 hours.
All above mention factors suggest, that the use of cups can allow women to be as free as on regular days during the menstrual cycle. A menstrual cup is a fruitful initiative taken for women’s health preservation and women empowerment.