Infections and hygiene
Using a menstrual cup is very hygienic, as no external factors or free oxygen reach the accumulated flow while it is inserted no bacteria is created.
In fact, you’re more likely to get an infection from bacteria on your hands that was transferred via the menstrual cup than you are to get an infection from the menstrual cup itself. That’s also why it’s very important to make sure to wash your hands with soap before you insert or remove the cup.
We have consulted gynaecologists on this matter and because bacteria formation grows exponentially, you should empty your menstrual every 8-12 hours. That’s why it is important to keep track of when you inserted it and to follow hygiene recommendations.
In 2019, a report by the Lancet Public Health also concluded that menstrual cups are a safe option. Read the report here.
TSS
TSS is a complication of bacterial infections, which has been associated with tampon use, but is not solely linked to tampons. In fact, 50% of cases are non-menstrual and 25% are found in men. To contract TSS, a person needs to be a carrier of a specific strain of staph bacteria (staphylococcus aureus) in their body. If the person has that, the staph can multiply in, for instance, a tampon’s absorbent fibers but also in an unhealed wound, producing a harmful toxin.
Unlike pads and tampons that absorb menstrual flow, a menstrual cup collects and catch it. This means that no oxygen reaches the collected flow and it remains bacteria free. It also means that no unnecessary vaginal fluids will be absorbed. This eliminates irritation and dryness while ensuring that the natural pH balance of the vagina is kept intact.
Nevertheless, there is still a minimal risk of TSS (if you have the specific strain of staph bacteria in your vaginal flora), so we always recommend making sure that you empty it after 8-12 hours, sanitise your cup between periods and wash your hands before handling the cup.
Cleaning
The AllMatters menstrual cup can last for years with proper cleaning and care.
If you follow our instructions on how to use and clean your cup it’s a very hygienic and safe method of managing your period.
You should always make sure to wash your hands with soap and water when handling your menstrual cup.
Before first use
Before using your AllMatters cup for the very first time, you have to boil your menstrual cup in water for 3-5 minutes. Please make sure to keep an eye on the pot so the water doesn’t vaporise, or the cup falls to the bottom and burns.
Can I sanitise my menstrual cup in a microwave or pour boiling water over it?
We recommend that you boil it in a pot because it’s important to make sure the water reaches 100 degrees Celsius and kills any bacteria.
This is more difficult to control if you’re using a microwave and also when you simply pour boiling water over the cup, since the water’s temperature drops quickly.