Where can I buy a menstrual cup? Explains how to prepare it for first-time use.
"I'm interested in menstrual cups, but I don't know where to buy one."
Some people who are purchasing a menstrual cup for the first time may have the same concerns.
Menstrual cups are available online and in stores, and each has its own benefits, so which one is best for you may vary.
In this article, we will explain where you can purchase menstrual cups and what to look for to help first-time users choose a menstrual cup with confidence.
We also introduce preparations before using a menstrual cup so that you can use it right after purchase, so you'll find useful information for your first use of a menstrual cup.
I hope this is helpful for those considering purchasing a menstrual cup.
Table of ContentsWhere can I buy a menstrual cup?
Buying a menstrual cup in-store or online: which is more convenient? Explaining the benefits
Basic information you should know after purchasing a menstrual cup
If you're buying a menstrual cup for the first time, we recommend Murmo. summary |
Where can I buy a menstrual cup?
Here's where to change your menstrual cup:
- Drugstores, select shops, and other stores
- Online shops such as official websites and e-commerce sites
Learn about the features of both stores and online shops and choose the method that best suits you.
Drugstores, select shops, and other stores
Menstrual cups can be purchased in stores, primarily at:
- Shops that sell Femcare products
- A select shop that carries sustainable products
- drugstore
They are often placed in the section with sanitary products.
In Japan, there are few stores that sell menstrual cups, and even if they do, they may not be in stock.
If you are considering purchasing, we recommend that you check in advance whether the product is in stock before visiting the store.
Online shops such as official websites and e-commerce sites
If you don't have time to go out to buy a menstrual cup or there is no store nearby that sells it, we recommend using an online shop that is open 24 hours a day.
They can be purchased from major e-commerce sites or the official websites of menstrual cup brands.
Online stores may charge shipping fees, so it's a good idea to check before purchasing.
Also, depending on the brand, it may take 2-7 days for your product to arrive, so if you want it to arrive in time for your next period, make sure you buy it well in advance.
Buying a menstrual cup in-store or online: Which is more convenient? Explaining the benefits
Purchasing a menstrual cup in-store or online has its own unique appeal, so when choosing, it's important to consider your lifestyle and preferences.
Benefits of buying in store
Here are five benefits of buying a menstrual cup in a store:
- If there is a sample, you can pick it up and feel it.
- You can check the size before purchasing
- Talk to store staff
- You can buy it whenever you want
- I'm worried that my family might open it if I send it by delivery.
Especially for those who are purchasing a menstrual cup for the first time, the ability to receive advice from staff and actually see the product is a major benefit.
Benefits of buying online
The benefits of buying from an online store are:
- Easy to read reviews
- You can purchase without worrying about being seen by others
- There are many types and sizes
- You can buy anytime 24 hours a day
If there is no store nearby, if you want to take your time choosing a product, or if you are concerned about other people's eyes, we recommend purchasing online.
Things to keep in mind when choosing your first menstrual cup
Here are four important points to consider when choosing a menstrual cup:
- material
- size
- Ease of putting on and taking off
- price
Knowing the tips for choosing a menstrual cup will help you make a smooth purchase.
material
The main materials used in menstrual cups are medical-grade silicone and medical-grade TPE.
Medical-grade silicone is less likely to cause allergic reactions and has the advantage of being highly durable. It is also soft and adapts easily to the body.
|
material |
Features |
|
Medical Silicone |
|
|
Medical TPE |
|
Some menstrual cups are made with natural rubber, but this can cause latex allergies.
If you have a history of allergies, be sure to check the materials used before purchasing.
size
Choosing the right size menstrual cup will affect leak prevention and ease of insertion and removal.
If you are using it for the first time or are unsure which size to choose, we recommend starting with the standard M size. This size has less resistance when putting it on and taking it off, making it easy to use even for first-time users.
If you choose a larger size from the start because you have a heavy menstrual flow, it may become difficult to fold and put on and take off, and you may give up using it.
We recommend that you first get used to the standard size, then try a larger size depending on your menstrual flow and comfort.
Ease of putting on and taking off
When considering purchasing your first menstrual cup, pay attention to how easy it is to put on and take off.
This is because, when you are not used to using a menstrual cup, you may have trouble putting it on and taking it off.
In fact, many people who stop using menstrual cups do so because they have difficulty putting them on and taking them off.
Therefore, if the shape and material are easy to handle even for beginners, they will not feel stressed when using it.
However, it takes practice to get used to it.
If you're worried about staining your clothes, we recommend trying it in your own bathroom. Even if your clothes get stained with menstrual blood, you can wash it off easily, both from your body and in the bathroom.
price
When purchasing a menstrual cup, it is a good idea to consider the price.
The price of a menstrual cup varies depending on the brand, but they generally sell for around 5,000 yen.
Menstrual cups may seem a little expensive upfront, but the average menstrual cup can be used for several years, making them more cost-effective in the long term than traditional disposable sanitary products.
Price is important, but it's also a good idea to prioritize whether the product suits your body, while also referring to reviews and word-of-mouth on e-commerce sites.
Some online stores sell them at low prices.
However, some products do not have a guaranteed safety rating, so it is best to check whether a medical device manufacturing and sales notification has been filed.
Basic information you should know after purchasing a menstrual cup
Menstrual cups cannot be used straight after purchase.
It needs to be disinfected before use, and it may take some time to get used to folding it.
- What to prepare when using for the first time
- How to care for your menstrual cup
- How to fold a menstrual cup
We will focus on the points that first-time users of menstrual cups may find confusing.
What to prepare when using for the first time
To use your menstrual cup comfortably and hygienically, you need the right disinfecting equipment.
If you have a special pot or a silicone cup for boiling and sterilizing that can be used in the microwave, sterilization will be easier.
At Murmo, we also offer our original boiling disinfection cup , the Murmo Clean Pot . With this special item, even first-time users can easily maintain hygiene.
Disinfection and clean handling are essential for comfortable use of a menstrual cup. Before use, be sure to read the instruction manual carefully and understand how to disinfect it properly.
How to care for your menstrual cup
Proper sterilization and cleaning are essential for hygienic use of a menstrual cup. Boil or microwave it at the beginning and end of your period.
[How to disinfect by boiling]
- Fill a pot with water so that it completely covers the menstrual cup and bring it to a boil.
- Place the menstrual cup in the water and boil for at least 5 minutes.
- Let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated place
[How to disinfect in a microwave oven]
- Fill a heat-resistant container with enough water to cover the menstrual cup, then cover the container and place it in the microwave.
- Please refer to the following heating time guidelines for disinfection.
- Let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated place
<Guideline for heating time>
|
Range wattage |
Disinfection time |
|
500W |
5 minutes or more |
|
600W |
Over 4 minutes 30 seconds |
Following these steps will ensure safe and hygienic use of your menstrual cup.
Also, be sure to wash your menstrual cup with mild soap during your period, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly when putting it on and taking it off. It's also important to limit the amount of time you use it.
Also worth reading: How to clean your menstrual cup? How to sterilize it by boiling it
How to fold a menstrual cup
To insert a menstrual cup smoothly, you need to learn how to fold it properly.
It may seem difficult for beginners, but with practice you will gradually get used to it.
First, practice folding the menstrual cup when it's dry and before your period comes. It's best to practice when it's dry, as a wet menstrual cup can be slippery.
It may be a little confusing at first, but you'll get used to it after a few tries.
Also read: How to Use a Menstrual Cup
If you're buying a menstrual cup for the first time, we recommend Murmo.
Murmo's menstrual cups combine design and functionality that makes them easy to use, even for first-time users.
It is especially focused on the following points, making it the perfect choice for beginners.
- Easy line that is easy to fold and put on and take off
- Slim and easy to put on and take off
- Smooth and smooth material
- Easy-to-grip stem
- One size fits all
- A design that doesn't need to be hidden
Murmo's menstrual cup is designed to reduce the anxiety and confusion that first-time users often experience.
The more you use it, the more comfortable it will become.
Also worth reading: Why are menstrual cups recommended? | 6 reasons why beginners should choose Murmo
summary
Menstrual cups are readily available in stores and online.
Use the points we've introduced here as a reference to purchase one that suits your lifestyle.
Menstrual cups cannot be used immediately after purchase.
Before use, be sure to sterilize the container using a boiling pot or a microwave-safe silicone cup.
Menstrual cups are a great way to help you feel more comfortable during your period.
It will take some practice at first, but once you get used to it, you will find it very comfortable to use.
