Does the menstrual cup cause vaginal infections?

More than 50% of women have ever had a vaginal yeast infection. When it coincides at the time with menstruation, it is normal to wonder if using a menstrual cup can aggravate the infection, this article will solve your doubts.

Index: 

• Does the menstrual cup cause vaginal infections? 

• Causes of vaginal yeast infections

• Menstrual cup and vaginal yeast infections

Does the menstrual cup cause vaginal infections? 

In recent years the use of the menstrual cup has become more and more popular. 

Among the reasons that bring the menstrual cup to stardom were its economic, ecological, and health benefits. However, along with its popularity, it was also accompanied by a series of myths: such as, for example, that using a menstrual cup could cause vaginal yeast infections.

More information: Can I pee if I have a menstrual cup on? 

Causes of vaginal yeast infections

Vaginal mycosis or vulvovaginitis is a vaginal yeast infection that more than 50 percent of women have had at some time in their life. Generally speaking, a vaginal yeast infection does not usually produce a serious risk, however, it does tend to affect the quality of life of the person suffering from it. Itching, stinging, dyspareunia, odorous vaginal discharge, among others, are some of the symptoms that can lead to excessive discomfort on the day to day life.

A vaginal yeast infection occurs when there is an alteration in the normal vaginal flora, producing an increase in acidity and the proliferation of bacteria that are harmful to the body. Wearing very tight latex or nylon underwear; antibiotics; tampons with toxic chemicals; among others, they can cause the incidence of these vaginal infections. A visit to a gynecologist is recommended for the proper treatment of vaginal yeast infection. Sometimes, when the problem can become chronic. In these types of cases, a vaginal exudate and specific treatment (which can sometimes last for months) are recommended.

The menstrual cup and vaginal yeast infections

While there is no scientific evidence to causally associate the menstrual cup and vaginal yeast infections, it can indeed be simply uncomfortable to wear a menstrual cup during similar discomfort. In fact, since the menstrual cup does not absorb or irritate, it usually adapts to the body without affecting or worsening the vaginal infection context.

For this reason, it is recommended that alternatives such as reusable cloth pads and menstrual cups such as the Eureka! Cup, are used during the menstrual period and a vaginal yeast infection. These sanitary products do not irritate, since they do not have additives, chemicals, or cellulose. Furthermore, we must not forget that a vaginal infection (punctual or chronic) requires adequate treatment. Both one (who suffers from the symptoms) and the couple.

Moreover, to avoid a vaginal yeast infection it is recommended to avoid tight pants, use cotton underwear, reduce the consumption of antibiotics and, above all, eat a healthy and balanced diet.

Get your own Eureka! Cup menstrual cup here! 

Written By: @maria.jose.ca

Translated by: @thaispascual