Alright girl, let’s talk about something that some women say seriously changes the game — the menstrual cup, or period cup. I know not everyone is comfortable sharing details about feminine hygiene, but it’s time we start talking about our bodies in a real way. No more whispering or dodging the convo, because guess what? Our cycles are natural! Being informed about period products (whether that’s pads, tampons, or a menstrual cup) can help you feel way less awkward and way more empowered. And it’s important for you to feel empowered in your health as a woman.
The lowdown on menstrual cups
So, what’s the tea on menstrual cups? Why do some women love them?
– Reusable: These cups can last for years,1 so no more running to the store every month or stressing about having enough tampons in your bag. You just insert the cup, remove the cup, clean, and sterilize! You can even keep a couple on hand, since they vary in size and capacity for a heavy flow or light..
– Eco-Friendly Queen: It’s no secret that tampons and pads create tons of waste. But menstrual cups are basically waste-free. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine how any one of us could help protect the environment. But think about how many pads and/or tampons we go through in a lifetime. When using a menstrual cup or reusable pads, you can feel good about minimizing your footprint.
– Save Your Coins: Buying pads and tampons every month adds up. But with a menstrual cup, you make one purchase and boom — you’re set for years! That can be serious cash saved to use for self-care, girls day out, or just saving for a rainy day.
Menstrual cups are reusable, create less waste (yay for the environment!), and can save you money! What’s not to love about that? But are they for everyone?
A great option for the health-conscious
Here’s the part that might blow your mind: A recent study from UC Berkeley found that tampons — yep, even organic ones — can contain some sketchy chemicals like lead and arsenic. Unfortunately, most brands contain these chemicals.2 And that might just give you the ick.
Menstrual cups, on the other hand, are made of silicone. If you’re into natural health and wellness, this is huge! It’s always helpful to know there are options like this out there.
Here in our blog section, we want to support you with women’s health information, no matter what health decisions you make. Only you know what works for your body. So when it comes to period products (and it’s on your radar to try out a menstrual cup), know that it can take a while to adjust to using one. If it takes a few tries to use it successfully, there’s nothing wrong with that. Most of us go through a trial period of learning how to insert the cup before making a decision!
Helping solve period poverty
There’s another reason people might be interested in menstrual cups. For a lot of people, access to period products isn’t a given. There’s an actual term for that — period poverty. Menstrual cups can be a long-term solution for those who can’t always afford tampons or pads. Instead of worrying about stocking up every month, a cup can set you up for years of use. This might be an answer to some women’s very real need, providing freedom and control for those who need it most.
Loving our bodies
At the end of the day, it’s helpful to be in tune with your body. Our bodies are amazing! Learning about our cycles and feminine hygiene options can go a long way towards making choices that fit your vibe. More awareness about your cycle = more control, and more confidence. And don’t we all need an extra dose of confidence?
And let’s be real — openness about periods helps break down the stigma around discussing our health, and makes it easier to have real convos about things that matter. We’re all about that energy — empowering you to feel in control and supported in your health decisions.
Periods and women’s health shouldn’t be treated like something we have to hide or keep hush-hush. This is part of our daily lives. It’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Our cycles are just part of life. The more we talk about these things openly, the more empowered we all feel to take control of our health, make informed decisions, and understand our bodies.
That’s where having a health advocate comes in.
A safe space for real talk
We want you to know that when it comes to your health, you’re the VIP. We care that you feel heard, supported, and understood. Whether you’re here in our blog section to learn about period struggles, how to insert a menstrual cup, birth control risks, or even dealing with something like missing a period, it’s important to have a safe space. Where no question is off limits. No judgment. No shame. Everyone deserves a space to talk about their body in a way that feels comfortable and supportive.
If you think you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy or need an STD screening, all of our services are no-cost! So no matter where you’re at in your story, we’ll be there to support you. We’re women supporting women, which means we get it. We understand. And we’re just a phone call or message away.
No more hush hush
Let’s normalize having real conversations about periods and reproductive health! It’s part of our lives, and it doesn’t have to be some secret topic we dance around. Having options like menstrual cup may help you manage your period easier, and also open up more conversations. For lots of us women, it helps to talk about how we take care of our bodies. Knowing how your menstrual cycle works, what products are healthiest for you, and feeling empowered to ask questions — that’s power.
At ThriVe, the whole idea is to give you the tools and the support to feel confident in whatever stage of life you’re in. Whether that’s choosing the best menstrual product or understanding your pregnancy options, you’ve got support.
Be the expert on you
Periods and women’s health are a big part of daily living, so having a place like ThriVe where you can get medically-accurate info is a flex. It’s not just about treating symptoms — it’s about education. The more we know about our bodies and how they work, the more empowered we feel. And that’s something ThriVe prioritizes — education and empowerment so you can make decisions that align with your body and your values.
There’s no such thing as a “dumb question” when it comes to your health. Whether you’ve got questions about pregnancy, abortion, or STI screenings, we’re here to get you the information you need without any side-eye or judgment.
So let’s drop the stigma around periods and women’s health. We’re in this together, and talking about it openly makes it easier for all of us to thrive (no pun intended ). We’re here for you, with care that’ll help you feel informed, supported, and in control of your body—because you deserve that!
Missed a Period? Let Us Help!
If you’ve been sexually active and missed a period, we understand. Whatever you’re feeling, please take some time to breathe and affirm yourself. You will come through this.
Your first step could be the most important one- getting your no-cost pregnancy test and ultrasound. This appointment can empower you by showing you what’s going on in your specific pregnancy. We’ll help you know what options are available to you, whether that’s abortion, adoption, or parenting.
It’s better to get clear answers than to play the guessing game, and we’ve got your back with no-judgment, confidential care.
Plus, our blog is packed with info on everything from menstrual cups to relationship tips. So if you’re curious or need some extra help, check it out.
Openness about women’s health isn’t just a trend — it’s the future. And it’s about time we embrace the openness, appreciate our bodies, and make empowered choices that work for us.
Sources:
1https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/menstrual-cups-vs-tampons-things-you-might-not-know-about-the-cup
2https://publichealth.berkeley.edu/news-media/research-highlights/first-study-to-measure-toxic-metals-in-tampons-shows-arsenic-and-lead