A<unk>  in two different sizes. A filled<unk>  after use A<unk>  is a menstrual hygiene device which is inserted into the vagina during menstruation. Its purpose is to collect menstrual fluid (blood from the uterine lining mixed with other fluids).<unk> s are usually made of flexible medical grade silicone, latex, or a thermoplastic isomer. They are shaped like a bell with a stem or a ring. The stem is used for insertion and removal, and the bell-shaped<unk>  seals against the vaginal wall just below the cervix and collects menstrual fluid. This is unlike tampons and menstrual pads, which absorb the fluid instead. Every 4–12 hours (depending on the amount of flow), the<unk>  is removed, emptied, rinsed, and reinserted. After each period, the<unk>  requires cleaning. One<unk>  may be reusable for up to 10 years, making their long-term cost lower than that of disposable tampons or pads, though the initial cost is higher. As<unk> s are reusable, they generate less solid waste than tampons and pads, both from the products themselves and from their packaging. Most<unk>  brands sell a smaller and a larger size. Some<unk> s are sold colorless and translucent, but several brands also offer colored<unk> s.<unk> s typically do not leak if used properly, though incorrect placement or inadequate<unk>  size can cause some women to experience leakage.<unk> s are a safe alternative to other menstrual products; risk of toxic shock syndrome infection is similar or less with<unk> s compared to pads or tampons.
Menstrual cup
Cloth menstrual pad
Menstrual pad
Menstrual cycle
Ovarian reserve
Vaginal ring
Sleep sex
Sex after pregnancy