In brief
A recent incident involving a woman experiencing kidney issues due to a misaligned menstrual cup has prompted doctors to advise careful selection and proper use of these devices to avoid serious health consequences.
Doctors are raising awareness about the potential risks associated with the misuse of menstrual cups after a case where a misaligned cup resulted in temporary kidney problems for a woman in her 30s. The patient had long suffered from pelvic pain and blood in her urine but failed to associate these symptoms with her menstrual cup, a common reusable product used to collect menstrual blood. Experts note that while such occurrences are exceedingly rare, a menstrual cup incorrectly positioned within the vaginal passage can exert pressure on nearby organs, including the ureters, which transport urine to the bladder, as outlined by Danish doctors in a publication by the British Medical Journal.Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of selecting an appropriately sized cup and ensuring it is inserted properly. With menstrual cups crafted from soft, flexible materials, they can hold between 20 to 30ml of blood and can be reused for hours after being emptied, cleaned, and reinserted. However, different models cater to varying body types, including smaller options for younger women or those who have not given birth.While menstrual cups are praised for being environmentally friendly alternatives to disposable sanitary products, they can pose challenges, especially for first-time users struggling with removal techniques. A survey indicated that many young users found it difficult on the first try and some even sought assistance. Dr. Kate Lough, a physiotherapy expert in pelvic health, advises against simply pulling on the cup's stem for removal. Instead, she recommends squeezing the base to break the suction seal gently. Dr. Lough reassures users that when correctly positioned, they should not feel discomfort from the cup.Moreover, if users have recently undergone procedures such as getting a contraceptive coil fitted, there may be a slight risk that suction could dislodge it, urging these individuals to consult with healthcare professionals if concerns arise regarding the placement of their coil.Overall, menstrual discs, which are similar to cups but placed higher in the vaginal canal, present another option for users, emphasizing the importance of finding the right match to enhance both comfort and safety during use.
