Why does my menstrual cup smell bad?
Menstrual cup use has transformed the period experience for many women around the world. But a common concern that may come up is, “Why does my menstrual cup smell bad?”. If you’ve noticed a change in the smell of your cup, you’re not alone. This article is dedicated to exploring the possible causes and solutions to keeping your menstrual cup smelling fresh and clean.
Although it can happen; it is not the most appropriate to use a cup that is retaining some odor. Since this means that not all the residue has been discarded. This is why the cup must be cleaned properly to ensure that it is fit to be placed in the vagina. But first, let’s understand what causes this smell so we can correct it.
Understanding The Causes of Bad Odor in Your Menstrual Cup
When we start using a menstrual cup, we realize that our period or menstrual blood does not smell as we expected. Since it only smells like blood, unlike other menstrual methods that absorb, it creates a different smell. The cup just collects the blood; you will only smell the smell of blood. But this smell should be removed after washing and sterilizing.
If this is not the case. The odor in your menstrual cup can be caused by several factors, including bacteria buildup, type of diet, vaginal pH, or even the way you clean and store your cup. Below, we will delve into each of these causes and how you can address them.
Bacteria and Blood Residue
The warm, moist environment inside the vagina is ideal for bacterial growth. This environment is where the menstrual cup is placed. But unlike the body, the cup cannot regulate bacterial growth. Which can result in unpleasant odors if the cup is not cleaned properly between uses. Be sure to follow the cleaning instructions, using hot water and a mild cleaner, or sterilize your cup regularly. Between each use, remember to clean it and not leave any residue of old blood, making sure that the holes are completely clean of period blood.
Nutrition and Vaginal pH
What you eat can influence the smell of your menstrual flow and, therefore, your cup. Foods with strong odors, such as garlic or coffee, can change the smell of your discharge. Additionally, an unbalanced vaginal pH can alter vaginal flora and cause odor. If this concerns you, consult your gynecologist for personalized recommendations. The use of probiotics and drinking enough water every day can help improve vaginal pH.
Cleaning and Storing the Cup
A menstrual cup that is not stored properly can develop an odor. After cleaning, be sure to dry it completely and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable cotton bag or its original case.
Methods to Eliminate The Bad Smell From Your Menstrual Cup
If your cup has already developed a bad odor, don’t worry, there are several ways to eliminate it and prevent it from happening again.
Boil the Cup
Boiling your menstrual cup for 5 to 10 minutes can kill bacteria and eliminate lingering odors. Just make sure the cup doesn’t touch the bottom of the pot directly, as this can damage it. After this, let the cup dry in the open air, where it does not come into contact with other things.
Cleaning with Vinegar or Baking Soda
These natural products are excellent for neutralizing odors. You can make a solution with one part vinegar and two parts water and let your glass soak for an hour, or create a paste with baking soda and water to gently scrub the glass and then rinse it well.
Sun exposure
Leaving your menstrual cup in the sun after cleaning it can help eliminate odors, as UV rays have disinfectant properties. However, do not leave it for too long, as the sun can deteriorate the material of the cup.
In conclusion, the smell in your menstrual cup can be an inconvenience, but it is a problem that has a solution. With proper care and cleaning, you can ensure that your menstrual cup stays fresh and ready for use. Remember that it is important to consult with a health professional if you have concerns about your vaginal health or the use of the menstrual cup.
Do you have more questions about caring for your menstrual cup? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that might interest you:
How often should I clean my menstrual cup?
After each use, the menstrual cup should be rinsed and leave no blood residue. Before putting in the cup on the first day of your period, you should sterilize it. You can clean it with a neutral, odor-free soap once a day and make sure not to leave any soap residue before inserting.
Can I use scented soaps to clean my cup?
No. No product inserted into the vagina should be scented. Whatever soap you use to clean your cup should be unscented so as not to disturb the vaginal pH, which will create more odors.
What do I do if my menstrual cup gets stained?
You can put it in hydrogen peroxide for a couple of hours, this will also help eliminate odors. You shouldn’t leave the glass for too long, put it in for an hour or two.
