Fem Choices

My Online Store

2005-10-19T17:48:00.000+08:00

Well, the search for an online store site was long, confusing and arduous (for tech-stupid me anyway).

There was yahoo stores which just cost too much (monthly fees of US$40 as well as 1.5% transaction fee as well as whatever charges there were for your credit card processer or ebay). These stores also didn't let you have a bank direct or cheque payment option (I guess that made it hard for them to monitor their transaction fees) which I didn't like.

There was the local puppy.com.my or hileytech option which costs a whopping M$2,500 for 1 year + hosting - and I wasn't clear whether this included from scratch development of the site or not... anyway, I think they are an Open Source Commerce based provider - open source means free for those that are tech-dumb like me.

There was of course the Ebay option, but heck, I already have the lelong store so why not stick with that. And anyway, as everyone knows, ebay more or less requires Paypal - and Malaysians get the really short end of the stick with that.

So finally I found Vstore. It's a Canadian company, relatively new (well, aren't all web ventures, really), that provides free online store services to everyone. They give you the store front and you just fill in the blanks, click click click.

They host your pictures free, they host your site free (well, there are small adds if you're on the free server).

Of course, if you want extras (for example, limitless categories, your own unique name - ie ends with a ".com" instead of a ".vstore") you have to upgrade to Premium. But heck, upgrading only cost me less than half of what Hileytech was charging, and they don't have transaction charges. Plus I was more comfortable with what I was getting with vstore (I know, I damn unpatriotic lor).

There are limitations - takes a little bit of time getting used to the admin side of the program, and takes a while to load because the servers are not local. But hopefully, as the company gets more established it will upgrade their servers and increase server speed.

On the other hand, their replies to questions and trouble shooting is really really fast and friendly. And they have an active forum for vstore users too.

All in all, I'm happy with their service and highly recommend it. What do you think ? - Femchoices Store

Now I just have to get that credit card thing sorted out (ugh more fees)

Toilet movements with the cup

2005-09-14T17:29:00.000+08:00

Some women find that it's harder to urinate while wearing the cup. This is probably due to the rim of the cup apply pressure to the urethra from inside the vagina.

If this is a problem for you, you can always remove the cup right before you go, though removing and inserting often can be irritating and make you sore.

You can also try pushing the cup up a little higher right before you go, or angling it back more by pulling the base/tail forward toward your pubic bone.

Also try to push harder when you are going.

If you have this problem, be very careful about making sure that you have completely emptied your bladder as not doing so can lead to a UTI (urinary tract infection).

Spotting? - Details on Kegels and Finding Your Cervix

2005-09-14T17:18:00.000+08:00

Heavy leaking ?

Make sure the cup is under your cervix and not up beside it.

Minor spotting ?

Probably from blood that was already on the vaginal tissues when the cup was inserted, and so is below the cup. Use a peribottle, or a small water bottle with a squirty top, to rinse the entrance of your vagina. You can also wipe around the entrance of your vagina with toilet paper, a moist toilet paper wipe, or a baby wipe.

Insert a finger and learn how your vagina angles up or down. If you can, try to find your cervix. This will help you determine the angle/position best suited for your cup.

Kegel, kegel, kegel. Strengthening your PC muscles will help your vag grip the cup better and also may make your cup sit higher. (Not to mention the other very good side benefits!) - Refer below.

Once inserted, try to twist the cup in a circle. This will help generate suction which should help alleviate leaking. Twisting can also help a cup that hasn't opened properly to 'pop.'

Play with the angling (knowing the lay of your vagina will help here). Try angling the base or tail of the cup in different directions: back toward your bottom, forward toward your pubic bone, or angle to the left or right.

Run a finger around the base of the cup once it's inserted - it should be completely round. If you feel any dents or folds the cup isn't open and will leak. At this point, twisting may help it open or you might have to take it out and start over. If this is a recurring problem, see the tip for letting the cup open earlier.

Try running the cup under COLD water. Some say this makes the cup stiffer and creates better suction.

When you insert the cup, try letting it unfold a little early - when it's about half to three quaters of the way inserted.

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Finding your Cervix:

If you've never located yours before, the best time to try is right before your period (the cervix is generally at it's lowest point during the luteal phase).

Assume a squatting position and insert your middle finger.

It may help to bear down as well.

If you are indeed in your luteal phase (that is, you have already ovulated) it should be round, cylindrical-shaped, and firm with a small dent in the middle. If you are in your fertile phase however, it will generally be higher, squishy-er feeling, and the cervical os (the opening) will be larger.

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Pinching or irritation at the entrance of your vagina ?

Try trimming the stem. Many find the cup isn't completely comfortable until they cut off the entire stem.

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How to Kegel (your Man will love this!)

Kegeling can be very helpful if you'd like your cup to sit higher or you are having problems with leaking (not to mention help problems with urinary incontinence and spice things up in the bedroom).

To identify your PC muscles, the next time you urinate try to stop midflow (while doing this once is fine for locating the correct muscles, it is important to note that you should not do this regularly when urinating as it could lead to a urinary tract infection).

3 kegel exercises are:

tighten and hold for 3-5 sec. then release;

pulses where you tighten and release as fast as you can;

pretending your vag is an elevator by slowly tightening over a count of 10 and then slowly releasing over a count of 10.

You want to do 10 of each type, eventually working up to 10+ sets a day.

Do them as often as you can; when you're sitting at the computer, in the car, standing in the check-out line at the store, etc.

There are also aids that you can buy to help you kegel. While most tend to be very expensive, anything that adds resistance is going to help you get stronger and gain more control faster.

If you are interested in aids, google ben-wa balls + kegel, kegelmaster, or jade eggs.

Cleaning

2005-09-13T23:22:00.000+08:00

it is very important to keep your Mooncup clean

Wash it regularly with mild soap and hot water and rinse thoroughly with clean water

Use a soft brush to clean the ridges if necessary

For both sanitary and suction reasons, it is important to keep the Air Holes on the rim of the cup clean (they become easily clogged). You can use a small safety or sewing pin to make sure they're clean. An Alternative Method:

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The 'water gun method':

Fill the cup with soapy water, cover the top with the palm of your hand, and turn upside down.

Squeeze the cup so that water shoots out of the air holes.

Repeat with fresh water to rinse.

Also, scrubbing the cup gently with a tooth brush helps keep the holes clean.

And finally, if there is junk that is particularly stubborn, sterilize a sewing pin with rubbing alcohol and push it through each air hole.
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Between periods, sterilize your cup by boiling it for 5 minutes in an uncovered pot with enough water to cover it (make sure you have enough water to cover it or it will damage your cup), OR soak it in sterilizing solution for no longer than 30 minutes

Never Use:

Petrol based substances like Vaseline
Essential Oils like undiluted Tea Tree
Harsh Cleaners

Discoloration

Some discoloration will happen over time - this doesn't affect the Mooncup's effectiveness and can be easily removed by soaking in sterilizing solution.

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If you notice any other changes in the appearance / texture of your Mooncup, stop using and replace it.

Keep your Mooncup in the storage bag provided when not in use. Do not store in a plastic bag or sealed container (this doesn't allow the cup to "breathe")

With proper care, cleaning and storage, the Mooncup lasts for years!

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Cleaning in a public restroom:

There are several options.

You can be brave and just go out to the sink to wash the cup off ( a perfect opportunity to convert others to the cup).

Or you can carry a small bottle of water (one with a squirty top is best) into the stall with you and rinse the cup off over the toilet.

You can bring wet paper towels into the stall with you and wipe the cup off.

You can wipe the cup off with toilet paper.

You can just empty the cup and reinsert as is.

Removal

2005-09-13T22:40:00.000+08:00

At first you should try to empty your Mooncup as often as you changed pads or tampons. You'll see from it's fullness how often you actually need to empty it.

As a general guide, Really Heavy Flow-ers usually empty every 2 hours in the first day, while Medium Flow-ers are ok with every 5 to 6 hours.

Don't worry - you'll be able to feel when you need to empty - as the fluid reaches the little holes in the Mooncup you'll feel a "bubbly" sensation which is caused by the fluid breaking the seal. This means you usually will have around 1/2 an hour to go empty your cup!

Step 1:

Wash your hands with soap!

Sit on the toilet / sqaut (whatever's good for you)

Step 2:

"Push down" with your pelvic muscles (like you're giving birth) until you can grip the base of the cup.

Squeeze the base (above the hard part) with your finger and thumb, gently, to release the seal. There may be a sucking noise as the seal releases.

Step 3:

At the same time, push down with your pelvic muscles and pull the cup out with your fingers.

If you don't think the seal has been broken (i.e. if it hurts slightly when trying to remove), slide your index finger up alongside the cup and try pushing it in at the top - this will definitely break the seal.

Angle the cup slightly sideways to remove 1/2 of the cup before angling it the other way to release the other 1/2. This ensures the cup slides out smoothly.

Empty the cup into the toilet

Step 4:

Wash it with water (either with a small bottle you've taken into the toilet with you) or wipe it with toilet paper or just reinsert as is.

Easy!

If it sounds very complicated - it's not. After a very few tries you'll soon figure out the best way for you and you can remove, empty and reinsert in seconds.

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Insertion tips from Ladies who Know:

Breaking the suction is VERY important before you remove or it will feel like you are sucking your uterus out. Many hear a "shlurp" noise which indicates the suction is broken. To break the seal, try pinching the base. However, for many pinching the base does nothing. In that case reach a finger as far up as possible and push in on the side of the cup or hook your finger over the rim and pull down.

If you're having trouble passing the rim, try folding the cup into a U-shape while it's still inside. Also try angling the cup to one side as you remove it, so that you are passing only part of the rim at a time.

Let your jaw hang loose -- helps vaginal muscles relax (don't know why, but it works!)

Try different position for removing (standing with one leg up, sitting, squatting, lying down). If you have trouble reaching the cup, bear down as though having a bowl movement. If you still can't reach, try squatting and bearing down.

Feminine Options

2005-09-06T16:36:00.000+08:00

I haven't had a chance to use these yet either, but really love the design and the concept.

This is the Light Flow Package (1 daytime holder and 4 large liners) and it cost me $29.50 (including shipping).

There are also longer holders and liners for Overnight / Post-partum use.

Lisa also kindly included a sample serve of "Alternative Coffee". Detailed pad care instructions are included.

Material

The holder is made out of a water proof muslin and the wings join together using a long strip of velcro (noisy to open, but doesn't matter as you'd only change the holder at home).

The Liners are made out of 100% Cotton (also available in organic cotton).

There is a reasonable choice of Fabric choices on the site for both holders (15) and liners (9). You can also buy a liner pattern to make liners yourself!

What I got in the mail

Everything was in a large size ziplock plastic bag - which can be re-used for storage.

The bottom of the holder

Note the lovely curved in sides of the holder - this means (theoretically at least I haven't tried them yet) that it would be a more slender fit when being used, and not such a "bulky" feel.

Holder with a liner in

Simply change the liners as necessary. Convenient and cost saving as liners cost much less than an entire pad.

Quality

The holders and pads are beautifully sewn. Compared to other pad options out there these would require a little more work to make (the unusual shape and multiple parts of the holder).

More of the review to come...

Hag Rag - MissM's Cloth Pad review

2005-09-05T22:46:00.000+08:00

I haven't actually used these pads yet, but I received them in the mail today and was so blown away by the whole package I had to post these photos now!

Detailed review will be forthcoming after use, but I hope you enjoy these photos for now...

I am reviewing the 7 Pad sample pack which cost me (including shipping) US$49. The set was for:

1 Original Round pad (light flow days)

1 Original Diamond pad (regular flow days)

1 Goddess Round pad w/Original Liner (over nite)

1 Goddess Diamond pad w/ Tsunami liner (extra heavy flow days)

1 Totally Organic Panty Liner (ultra light, super soft protection)

1 Mini Panty Liner (super light days)

1 Mini Pad (a "lil" pad)

Plus she gave me a free Original Round Pad ! - it is the one with dolphins on it (below)

Material:
Hag Rag uses 100% certified organic cotton (except for the printed fabrics as any fabric that's been dyed doesn't qualify as organic. She does offer 100% undyed organic pads, such as the panty liner in this set).

The pads are used pattern side down on your panties so your skin is only in contact with the Certified Organic Cotton side.

All pads are winged and close with a white plastic "snap" button.

Fresh out of the box
Fresh out of the bag - Look at that packaging *swoon*

Included lots of vouchers with discount codes for online retailers (and they were a lovely bunch as well).

That little badge you see is a "I *heart* Hag Rags badge.

Unwrapped package

All opened up

All wrapped up - as they would be after use (with the soiled part on the inside)

Diamond Pads organic side up - this is the side which is bled on

Note the embroidered Hag Rag logo and "Goddess" on the Goddess pad. I really like this design. So far, the cloth pads which have been labelled (not all are) have used a sewn in label and don't specify the type of pad. The sewn in thing just adds unnecessary bulk!

This means the Hag Rags, so far have been the trimmest. Very clever design - and classy too

Diamond pads on the pattern side up.

The tie dye one is the Goddess with Tsunami (heaviest flow). The liner is 2 pieces of liners sewn together for extra protection (normally liners are only one layer).

Round Pads - organic side up

Round Goddess with liner taken out

Wouldn't you just kill for that cat pattern? It's so vibrant and lush.

2 Regular Round pads (one was free!) and a Mini pad
You can't see it here but the strawberry one is sparkly! Divine!

Mini Panty Liner

Has a sewn in extra layer.

Close up of stitching

I was so impressed with the stitching and quality of work. Some of the pads I've received (for example Glad Rags) have "loose" stitching where the overlock machine wasn't set carefully and there are loose loops. All of these pads had beautiful overlock stitching - very small, tight and did not create any extra bulk at all. Skuld also double stitches the pads which makes them even stronger (using 2 different color threads by the way - just goes to show the love and care gone into making them).

These pads are not sewn together - they're overlocked together. This method creates the least bulk (in my experience) and is very neat, except for some initial "fray bits" from the cloth.

(Preliminary) Conclusion
Overall, I was totally impressed with the entire purchase, and can't wait to try these out.

Please let me know if you'd be interested in trying these pads as I'm planning a wholesale order soon. (I know I should wait until I use them first, but I can't imagine I'd be disappointed!).

Why Tampons are unhealthy for You

2005-08-29T13:33:00.000+08:00

A menstruator is likely to use 16,800 sanitary pads or tampons in a lifetime.

Tampons soak up more than blood - 35% of what they absorb is vaginal mucous, which is necessary to maintain a healthy pH balance in the vagina; this phenomenon has been linked to yeast infections.

Artificial fibers (like rayon) used in tampons are abrasive, so when a tampon lengthens it pushes against the cervical area, causing tiny cuts and imbedding pieces into the tissue. This has been traced as the probable cause of Toxic Shock Syndrome and has been shown to damage the vaginal walls by causing ulceration and peeling of the mucous membrane.

The vaginal walls are the most absorbent part of a menstruator's body. 25% of all pesticides are used on cotton, which are used to make tampons and disposable pads. No long-term independent testing has been done on the health effects of using non-organic cotton tampons.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS):

TSS is a rare but fatal bacterial illness that occurs mostly in young menstruators. TSS has been linked to tampon use and the high absorbency level in tampons. The number of reported cases has dropped significantly in recent years, from 55 deaths and 1,066 cases during 1979 and 1980 to 5 reported cases in 1997 and 3 in 1998, due to increased regulation by the FDA of tampon absorbancy and changes in tampon ingredients. (Tampon Safety, FDA)

Dioxin:

Up until a few years ago, tampon companies used chlorine gas to bleach tampons which produced small amounts of dioxin.

Now, if you call up Johnson and Johnson, makers of O.B. tampons, their spokesman, John McKeegan, will tell you that the company uses elemental chlorine-free bleaching, which does not produce dioxin. Tests provided to the FDA by the big tampon manufactures claim that the dioxin levels in tampons range from undetectable to a mere 1 part in 3 trillion, much lower levels than what one receives through daily, environmental exposure.

Technically, this is true, but in practice, even industry spokesmen admit that dioxins can enter tampons through ingredients such as cotton and rayon, which are exposed to pollutants throughout their life cycles. And most importantly, the tests that have been done were provided by the tampon manufacturers, and no tests that have been done can prove that any tampons are completely dioxin free.

When dealing with the most absorbent part of your body, why take the risk? (Tampon Safety, FDA; Tampons, Asbestos, Dioxins, and Toxic Shock Syndrome, FDA)

Health effects of dioxin include endometriosis, headaches, cancer, hormonedisruption, birth defects, low birth weight, miscarriages, and infertility

For More indepth Reading:

The Tampon Health Website

Pulling The Plug On The Sanitary Protection Industry

This Article tweaked from here

Virginity, Hymens, Menstrual Cups and Exercise

2005-08-22T22:30:00.001+08:00

There are some concerns that menstrual cups cannot be used by virgins.

Well, it really is dependent on the individual woman.

Just as all women look different, and all women have different breast sizes, all women also have reproductive systems with different characteristics. This is further influenced by individual activity - like the type of exercises engaged in.

Logically, some virgins will be able to use menstrual cups - others will find it difficult.

It all depends on the state of the hymen. The hymen is "A thin membrane which covers the opening of the vagina." Often associated with virginity (i.e. the "bleeding virgin bride"), not having one does not make a woman any less of a virgin.

What is a virgin? A virgin is most commonly defined as a person who has not engaged in sexual intercourse, or in a stricter sense, any sexual activities.

In the same way as getting a pap smear is not a sexual activity, internal menstrual protection (like the use of menstrual cups, tampons and sea sponges) are hardly sexual activity. So using a cup, tampon or sponge does not make one any less of a virgin.

Yah lor, but I must bleed during my wedding night or my husband's family will send me off in shame, throwing pots and pans at me

Leaving aside all moral or societal discussions about the above statement, not all virgins will bleed on their wedding night. Even virgins who have never inserted anything inside their vaginas may not bleed. Referring to here:

"These days it is uncommon to come across women of marriageable age with intact hymens. Participation in sports, swimming, bicycling, horse-riding....will lead to stretching or rupture of hymen well before the first intercourse. Some are born with only a rudimentary hymen or none at all."

My best advice for new brides with sneaky Mother in laws (who care about this sort of thing) is to take some chicken blood into the room just in case. My best advice for brides whose new husbands demand actual blood on the sheets as practical proof is... umm. Is he a virgin too?

So, as said, it really depends on the individual involved. Some 12 year old virgins will be able to use a menstrual cup and tampons easily. And yet some 26 year old virgins will not.

Just for Fun

2005-07-25T14:08:00.000+08:00

Bleeding is OK - a man's POV

Poll - If you had a Choice - Bleed or not

Message to Disposable Manufacturers

Why should I use a Cup / Pads / Tampons

2005-07-25T13:54:00.000+08:00

Comparison Table showing benefits and dangers of menstrual products

Health Reasons to use a Cup: Dangers of Tampons

Health Reasons to use a Cup: Dangers of Disposable Pads

Feminist Reasons

How to Use a Cup

2005-07-25T13:51:00.000+08:00

Insertion

Toilet-ing with your Cup

Removal

Cleaning and Storing

Spotting, How to find your Cervix and Kegels

Testimonials

2005-07-25T13:49:00.000+08:00

One Lady's Personal Review

Message Boards

Other Independent Reviews by Cup users

Shop

2005-07-25T13:27:00.000+08:00

Visit our Online Shop at www.Femchoices.com

Also watch out for special offers at our Lelong Store

or you can email fem.choices@gmail.com for a full in-stock Catalogue

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We will also be stocking products made by local Malaysian Work at Home Mothers or Malaysian Women in support of our Malaysian community.

We will help set up and develop products with these mothers, but all proceeds from the sale of these products will go directly to the mothers or women who made them.

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Our Products:

Mooncup Reusable Menstrual Cups - M$110 each
Paul Penders Organic and Natural Skin and Hair Care Products

Reusable Cloth Pads (various brands and price ranges)

100% Organic Cotton EcoYarn Tampons and Pantyliners

Great Gifts for You and Others:

Purse Hooks and Hangers
Glamorous Tampon Cases

Organic Cotton Underwear - Stocking in Mid-2006

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Mooncups Only:

Cup Size A or B :

A - for Ladies over 30 / Ladies who have given birth vaginally

B - for Ladies under 30 who have not given birth vaginally

Size difference is not significant - if you are over 30 / given birth vaginally, but feel that, for a variety of reasons, the smaller B cup is sufficient (i.e. you are a long time and regular yoga practitioner, you are a fanatic kegel exerciser), please choose the "B" cup.

Don't be shy to order the "A". If the cup is too small, you'll experience leaking as it will not be able to create a good enough "seal".

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Both myself and www.mooncup.co.uk (the UK manufacturer) are dedicated to providing excellent after sales guidance, both by phone or email. Should you find you have a medical problem that precludes your use of the mooncup, you can return it and you will be fully refunded (note that returned cups are never re-sold).

Comparisons between the different types of menstrual products

2005-07-22T15:50:00.000+08:00

Here's a good page that gives a simple pros and cons of different menstural products:

Menstrual Product Hierarchy

Extracted Blurb:

Clearly, ALL women bleed and most of us don't feel inclined to just let it flow wherever it may. It's a pretty basic need, but most women really aren't informed about the options. Is there life beyond Tampax? So, here's a quick little list for you of your menstrual product options, ranked from what I see (based on what I've read and experienced) as the best options to the bad ones that you should never ever use.

Methods to insert a menstrual cup

2005-07-07T13:10:00.000+08:00

There are 2 main methods for insertion. Note the following photos are with the mooncup's tail intact. I've cut my tail off completely as I don't use it for removal and without the tail I cannot feel the cup at all.

1. Step 1 for both

Then you can use either step 2a. or step 2b. I recommend lubricating the cup by dipping the mouth in clean (not toilet) water first. Or you can use a water-based lubricant (not petroleum based as it will degrade the cup over time)

2a. The "Traditional" 2 fold step

Fold the cup in half. You can use two hands, but I need one to hold the camera!

Fold the cup in halves again.

This is what you should get:

Compared to an expanded OB mini tampon expanded under water:

2b. The Push Down Fold

Push down one side into the middle of the cup with your thumb:

or Push down with your index finger.

Pull your index finger / thumb out of the cup and you have the following:

Compared to an expanded OB mini-tampon

3. Inserting the mooncup

There are a variety of positions you can try to comfortably insert the cup. Personally I find sitting on the toilet the best for me, some women find it better to squat, others prefer it in the shower.

Try to insert it smoothly and fast - the more hesitation you have to "Ease it in" the more difficult it will be as the mooncup will keep opening up too soon. Practice and making the unfamiliar familiar will help a lot. Soon you will be doing it in seconds!

Aim towards the bottom of your spine. The vaginal canal is not vertical or horizontal, it slopes upwards. If you are not familiar with the slope of your vaginal canal, try it with a finger to see in what direction you should be inserting.

You only need to push the cup in far enough so that the bottom of the cup is 1 to 2cm above the entrance to your vagina.

4. Checking it is in place

You should feel the cup unfold inside you as soon as you have pushed it in. Some women find it is better to let the cup unfold when it is just inside the vagina, and then to push it slightly further in - this creates a gentle "suction" which means there will be no leakage.

If your cup does not unfold, try relaxing your pelvic muscles and using your index finger to check around the sides of the inserted mooncup.

It may be necessary to give the mooncup a gentle turn (gently, gently) in order to create the seal.

Your cup should not be as far in as you would push a tampon. Your cup should not be touching your cervix. Properly inserted, you should not be able to feel your cup at all.

It may take a little practice for some (although it may not - I got mine in properly very easily) - same as it takes some practice in properly inserting tampons.

Should you have any problems with inserting your cup:

1. Feel free to contact me at mooncup.malaysia (at) gmail.com.
2. Email or call the ladies at the Mooncup HQ
3. Check out one of the forums. They are filled with many very helpful ladies who love their cups, and some of whom also had difficulties at first.

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Tips from Ladies Who Know:

If you are getting frustrated, take a break and come back later.

If you are having trouble relaxing, try masturbating first.

Let your lower jaw hang loose - this helps relax your vaginal muscles.

Try different folding methods: the C-fold, the 7- fold, and the Spout fold

Try different positions: sitting, standing with one leg up, lying down, squatting.

Try inserting while in a warm shower.

Try warming the cup with hot water. This will help make it more flexible.

Use a water-based (such as KY) lubricant on the rim.

Testimonial from the ladies at LHC

2005-07-04T14:18:00.000+08:00

This is extracted whole from a brochure located Here. Requires pdf for reading.
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Grown Up and Loving it! The Journey to Menstrual Happiness

Reuseable menstrual products aren't a crunchy extreme. They are a comfortable, practical and enjoyable choice for a situation most women have to deal with for much of their lives.

First of all, some background. I'm currently in my early thirties, and over the past five years or so, I've gradually switched from alld isposable products to using a combination of the Mooncup and cloth pads, trying out both the Keeper and Diva cups along the way.

This wasn't motivated by any environmental concerns. Mostly, I just came to realize that I wasn't happy with what I had been using, and that, given that I'd put up with uncomfortable products for over 15 years, and may have another 15 to 20 years of putting up with having a period, I might as well look for something better. (i was in my late 20s at the time).

I started with random web browsing, where I found someone selling cloth pads and the Keeper, and testimonials from her customers about how wonderful these products were. My first thought was "Eww, gross!" But I was also curious, and surprised that anyone could like their menstrual protection, let alone rave about it. I read a bit, and didn't think much of it.

But the next couple of months, I began to notice that my periods weren't bad, but most of my dislike of them came from the products I was using. They seemed prone to leaks. They were expensive. Tampons were drying. Pads were either slimy (paper type) or sweaty (plastic covered type), and the adhesive would occasionally stick in odd and uncomfortable places. Sure, they did thejob, but they were an inelegant solution, doing the job without comfort or pleasure.

I broke down, and ordered a Keeper cup. For several years, I used a combination of the Keeper cup, and disposable pads. The Keeper was reliable, it was non-drying, it was much easier to carry than tampons (which would be ruined if they accidently got wet, and were bulky since I'd need to carry several with me every day of my period). Some months, I just used the Keeper, some months I used a combination of the Keeper and disposable pads. It was the most comfortable I'd ever been during my period.

Last summer, I decided the disposable pads weren't cutting it. I wasn't going to put up with sticky, sweaty pads. I ordered a few cloth pads, with trepidation, from a couple of sources.

They are amazing. Much softer than disposables. Comfortable. Absorbent. Honestly, I don't feel as if I'm giving up anything by using these. Rather, I'm indulging myself by choosing something that is plain old more comfortable. Surprisingly, they aren't any more work than disposables. Sure, they need to be washed. But I don't do that, the washing machine does. It's less trouble to dump the pads in the washer than to bundle up for the winter weather to carry a bag of used pads out to the dumpster. I've since collected about a dozen cloth pads, from several different companies, creating a "Wardrobe" in which I have my favorites and my not-so favorites, but all of them are nicer than a disposable.

There are more choices too. Do I want flannel? Or Calico, which feels cool in the summer heat? Or cozy fleece on a cold winter day? Then there are the different prints. Feminine floral? Or wild leopard skin? Maybe a funky print in primary colors? Surprisingly, I can have as much fun choosing my pads as I do my panties, maybe wearing something daring under a conservative suit, or something comforting on a hectic day.

But, when things are getting really rough, I still have my cup. I eventually switched from the Keeper cup to the Mooncup, because I realized I had a milkd latex sensitivity, and the silicone was more comfortable. But either way, nothing is more versatile or convenient.

My brother was recently married, and, of course, I realized that his wedding would coincide with my period, and it involved a trip 3/4 of the way across the US. With disposables, I would have had to carry a lot of bulky products. I probably would have had to pack in a suitcase instead of my garment bag, and/or had to go shopping for products in an unfamiliar town, when I was already very busy with the wedding. Instead, I decided to just use my cup. All the protection I needed, for my whole cycle fit, literally, in the palm of my hand. My period is only medium-heavy, so I only needed to empty the cup twice a day. I emptied, washed and reinserted it in the morning in my hotel room, and again, in my hotel room, at bedtime.

The rest of the trip I was worry free and comfortable. The cross-country flights were a breeze. Nothing to carry, nothing to dispose of, nothing to have to deal with in a crowded airplane bathroom. Having my period on that trip (or any vacation) would have been a real inconvenience if I had used nay other product. Instead, it was a non-issue (I suspect this would be even more of a benefit for someone who enjoys camping vacations, where one is expected to carry out one's garbage).

One thing I noticed, in the course of my switch. The people who make disposables sell them as a tolerable way to deal with an unpleasant situation. The people who sell reusables describe them as not just tolerable, but nice. I've seen cloth pads described as "menstrual lingerie". Something to be treasured, and cared for, and enjoyed. Something that makes you feel special.

I never thought I'd really love my menstural products. But I do. They aren't just something to be used and siposed of. They aren't interchangeable. They're mine. Something I've chosen. Something that is just for me. Something that I can pick and choose from, based on my mood and needs, just like the rest of your clothing.

If you really, truly like your disposables, keep using them. but don't assume that they are your only option, or that, if you aren't 100% happy with them, you have no alternative. Reusable products may be, for you, more convenient, more comfortable, and plain old nicer, than anything a disposable hopes to be.

Poll - If you had a choice

2005-07-04T11:00:00.000+08:00

All comments welcome!

Personally I voted "no" as I believe the monthly "visits" are a way of my body cleansing itself. Then again, there's that whole iron deficiency issue!

Read what women have had to say on message boards

2005-07-02T08:24:00.000+08:00

Following are site forums that have actively discussed the use of mooncups.

Compulsory Reading! Message board for first time users

Message Board for the curious

Christianity Forum

Bad Mothers Message Board

Chat forum on livejournal for Cup users

Non-chat, information portal

Fun - A man who thinks bleeding is OK

2005-07-01T13:11:00.000+08:00

Just for fun

Is it so dirty?

Independent Site Forums

2005-07-01T12:04:00.000+08:00

Following are site forums that have actively discussed the use of mooncups.

Compulsory Reading! Message board for first time users

Message Board for the curious

Bad Mothers Message Board

Chat forum on livejournal for Cup users

Non-chat, information portal

Independent Reviews

2005-07-01T11:56:00.000+08:00

Refer here for independent (non-affiliated to sellers of Menstrual products), personal reviews of Cups.

If you would like to submit your own review, please leave a comment, or email me at mooncup.malaysia at gmail.com.

1/5/05 - Love my cup - NZ

11/4/05 - Landfill is a Bloody Business

20/2/04 - In Praise of My Mooncup (Requires PDF)

16/9/03 - Heavy Periods and the Mooncup

1/8/03 - And first I said Ew, but now I love it

Amusing article on using the Keeper. Cute drawings too

Radical Menstruation

9 Reviews from Ciao.co.uk - A British Product Review Site - Overall 4 1/2 out of 5 star rating
15 total reviews from Ciao on Menstrual Cups

1 Review from dooyoo.co.uk - Another British Product Review Site

To date, have not come accross any negative reviews from actual users. Should you find one, let me know!

What is a Menstrual Cup

2005-07-01T10:49:00.000+08:00

It is an health- and evironmentally friendly alternative for managing a woman's menses.

There are a wide range of methods used for managing the menses. By far the most popular today are the disposable and non-biodegradeable products:

1. Sanitary Napkin / Pad

and the

2. Tampon.

Other than these 2 methods, there are the less widely used:

3. Sponges

4. Cloth Pads

5. Disposable and Non-biodegradeable Menstrual Cup

6. Reuseable Menstrual Cups.

A Menstrual Cup is a small rubber / silicone "cup" that sits in the vaginal canal. It is re-useable for 10 years and has very little to no impact on the environment and your body.

Menstrual Cups were invented in the 1930s - at the same time as Tampons. Hundreds of thousands of women have used them since that time and have not suffered any adverse effect.

There are currently 3 commercial manufacturers of Reuseable Menstrual Cups:

Keeper, Mooncup, Diva

1. The Keeper - US$37 (M$141) to ship internationally from their website

Made in the US out of soft, brown, gum latex rubber (the same type used for babies bottle nipples).

2. The Diva - US$35 (M$133) to ship internationally from their website

Made in Canada out of medical grade silicone. The shape is slightly deeper, larger and rounder than the Keeper.

3. The Mooncup - £19 (M$130) to ship internationally

Made in the UK out of medical grade silicone. The shape is exactly the same as The Keeper.

Common Questions on using menstrual cups

For virgins

Technorati Tags mooncup, menstural cup, menstruation, period, tampon, sanitary pad, keeper, divacup, diva cup