Tampons vs Menstrual Cups – Pros & Cons

We receive a ton of hits from users wondering what the pros and cons are of Tampons vs Menstrual Cups. While we may be a little biased on which product we prefer, we’re going to approach this from an informational standpoint and *try* to limit any opinions. If an opinion slips out, well… whoops!

MENSTRUAL CUP PROS

1. Reusable – A menstrual cup can be reused multiple times, and many can be used for up to 8+ years. After each cycle you thoroughly wash your cup and then store it in a clean place.
2. Good For Sensitive Skin – Typically made using natural rubber or medical grade silicone, the menstrual cup usually works for bodies that are sensitive to chemicals.
3. Long Term Cost Effective – The menstrual cup pays for itself after a few months, making it a long term investment.
4. Body Awareness – Being up close and personal with your menstrual flow each month brings a sense of body awareness and intimacy with yourself. There is no tug on a string and toss, you must reach in and remove.
5. Long Lasting – In addition to lasting 8+ years, the menstrual cup can be safely worn for up to 12 hours (depending on the cup).

MENSTRUAL CUP CONS

1. Can Be Messy – There is a learning curve to the menstrual cup, and when you’re first learning there can be “accidents.” Always make sure you have a firm grip on your menstrual cup before removing, this will reduce the risk of it tipping over and spilling.
2. Not Culturally Accepted – There’s still an “ew” factor attached to menstrual cups. When discussing the menstrual cup with others, it’s very common to get stares, questions, etc. However, this is changing and menstrual cups are becoming more and more accepted.
3. Not Easily available – Menstrual cups are only carried in a few select stores and online. This means there are no “quick runs” to go out and pick one up unless you’re fortunate to have a store nearby that carries them.
4. Requires Users To Get Intimate – As mentioned in Pro # 4, the menstrual cup forces you to get up close and personal with yourself. There is no “out of sight, out of mind” here. If this is not something you’re comfortable with, it can be awkward getting used to.
5. Initial Cost Can Be Pricey – Most menstrual cups carry a price tag of $35 – $40. This can be a bit on the pricier end for some folks when shopping around.

TAMPON PROS

1. Affordable Cost – Tampons are cheap up front. You can buy a box for less than $5. If money is tight, this is an option that many prefer.
2. Easily Available – Tampons are carried in big name box stores all the way to small convenience stores and even some bathrooms have them available for $0.25. This means if you’re in a pinch and need a tampon ASAP, it’s pretty easy to run out and get one.
3. More Culturally Acceptance – Tampons are generally more accepted. They’ve been around for a long time and people are used to the idea of quick and disposable. Plus, if you ask a friend to borrow a tampon, you’re most likely not going to get any odd questions or weird looks.
4. Easy To Insert/Remove – Tampons are usually pretty easy to get the hang of – many women are able to easily insert and remove after only a couple tries.
5. Not As Messy – Tampons absorb the menstrual flow. This makes cleanup and disposable fairly simple with very little mess.

TAMPON CONS

1. Risk Of TSS – There is still a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) attached to tampons. While the cases have become rare, they do still exist.
2. Dryness – As mentioned in Pro #5, tampons absorb the menstrual flow. They also absorb the body’s natural fluids, which can lead to dryness.
3. Irritation – Tampons go through a bleaching process and are often exposed to many chemicals along the way. For those with sensitivities, there is a chance of irritation from the cotton or the chemicals used on the cotton.
4. Wasteful – Tampons are disposable and easy to toss. This contributes millions to waste every year.
5. Pollution – In addition to the pollution caused by the manufacturing of tampons, many believe you can flush tampons, which contributes to the pollution of our waters and sewage systems.

As a side note: We recommend opting for organic tampons whenever possible (should you decide to continue using them) as these are often not treated with the same harsh chemicals.

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Don’t forget to visit us online at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!

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We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.