Experiences of the Women Using Menstrual Cup on Free Will – A Qualitative Inquiry

• Published in: Online journal of health & allied sciences : OJHAS 2020-12, Vol.19 (3)
• Main Authors: Ann Merrin George, Leena KC
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: experience; menstrual cup; women
• ISSN: 0972-5997; 0972-5997

Background: Menstrual cup is a least preferred sanitary option by the Indian women. Even though there are studies on the experience of women using menstrual cups, little research has been conducted among the women who use menstrual cup on a free will. The current study explored the experiences of the women using menstrual cup independently without any program interventions. Materials and methods: A generic qualitative approach was adopted. The data was collected through semi-structured interview of 22 women who were using menstrual cups for a minimum of three consecutive cycles. The data was analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Ten sub themes emerged and were categorized under four main themes. Firstly the experiences that led to the use of menstrual cup with sub-themes: excessive menstrual bleeding, discomfort with the previous menstrual absorbent and problem in its disposal, secondly experiences during the initial use of menstrual cup with two subthemes: emotional feelings and difficulties with the insertion and removal, thirdly experiences while getting adapted with menstrual cup with sub-themes: getting familiarized with the cup and peer and social media influence and finally experiences with the subsequent use of menstrual cup with sub themes: caution taken while using menstrual cups, differences felt from the previous menstrual absorbent and problems faced while using the menstrual cup. Conclusions: Women in the present study found it comfortable and convenient to use the menstrual cups but they faced difficulties during the initial use and adaptation.