Yup, after reading a few other blogs of individuals who have the courage to write about feminine issues, I have decided to go ahead and do it. So, as the title says, this post is only for the ladies. Men you will not regret skipping this one, I promise!
After I started using cloth diapers, I decided to look into other environmentally friendly options. I came across several positive reviews of the Diva Cup. At first I was slightly hesitant, but decided to go ahead and give it a try. After all, if it worked it would safe money and be better for our environment. I tell you what, after the first day of using it, I was in love. I know the idea of a menstrual cup sounds weird, but it’s great.
The first day was so easy I decided to only take that with me while we were traveling for Christmas. That meant I took it and only it with me on the airplane ride, long car rides, being in someone else’s home…yeah all the fun stuff. To be honest, it was too easy. I’ve learned I only have to empty the cup every 12 hours, so there were none of the usual worries. I didn’t have to take anything with me. I didn’t have to worry about sneaking the “goods” to the restroom. And I didn’t have to worry about disposing of anything. Plus there were no leaks and no odor.
In addition to all these perks, I have now noticed that after only using it for three cycles, my typical menstrual cramping has declined. I had read that using a menstrual cup or reusable cloth pads would decrease the “flow” and cramping. I can confirm as strangely as it sounds, that it does happen. It’s wonderful not having to worry about purchasing different sizes and different kinds of protection. Not having to worry about toxic shock syndrome or putting plastic and used products in landfills.
OK, hopefully we truly have lost all the male readers. The site gives instructions on how the product is used. If you have any questions concerning it, let me know. I have purchased some reusable panty liners to use along with the Diva Cup. I have not had the opportunity yet to use those, but am looking forward to it.
This link is where I purchased my Diva Cup, they have them on sale right now for $17.49! After a few months, the product will have paid for itself.
Mae Anne said,
February 18, 2008 @ 1:50 pm
Hi Marti,
I quickly read through several of your entries and have a few things to add…
1. Composting: we just began doing this a few months ago. You don’t have to store your heap in anything. We just have ours in the corner of our yard next to where the garden will be. Just make sure to look into things to not put in your heap and to turn it every two weeks to get the green manure you want. I LOVE Rodale’s All New Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening. It’s our first go-round at 1. non container gardening (which worked very well!) and 2. going organic.
2. Green cleaning products. I also LOVE Method cleaning products. You can find them at Target or at http://www.methodhome.com. They are fabulous, green, have funny slogans for everything, and are concentrated so they last a long time for the amount of $$. Also, if you know anyone who sells Melaluca or Shakely products those are good, too. I don’t really care for the Melaluca smell but they have a disinfectant that is OUT OF THIS WORLD good!
3. Cloth diapering… good for you! We haven’t gone that shade of green, but it is definitely something worth checking into.
Thanks for your very educationl site and your energy towards life!
marti said,
February 18, 2008 @ 2:08 pm
Mae Anne ~
Thanks for your comments. I’m glad to hear that you don’t have to have a bin for composting. We started doing exactly what you are saying about two weeks ago. The far corner of our backyard is our designated compost area. I have it marked by a couple pieces of wood! I have been turning it, adding leaves, and watering….so, hopefully I will have success and be able to post about it before too long.
Thanks again for your support!
JTB said,
February 29, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
Yay! I love the Diva Cup. I’m glad it’s been working so well for you too.