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Menstrual cups suction to the edges of the vaginal wall, but if they push too hard, they could feasibly compress the ureter
While many women are now turning away from tampons and pads due to high levels of toxic chemicals, waste, and even proof, menstrual cups are becoming popular, emerging as a greener, cheaper, and easier option.
While silicone-based cups are considered safe and effective, according to the research, doctors say it is extremely important to choose the correct shape and size to avoid leakages and infections. A new study has detailed the rare case of a woman who developed kidney injury due to the serious consequence of using a menstrual cup that was too big and poorly positioned.
The woman in her early 30s started noticing blood in her urine and pain in her abdomen. Six months after symptoms began, a scan revealed swelling in her right kidney and ureter—the tube that carries urine to the bladder.
How did the woman injure her kidneys?
According to doctors, her scan images showed the edges of a menstrual cup butting up against the ureter's opening and compressing it. Because the ureter passes close to the vaginal wall on its way to the bladder, the woman was told to avoid using a menstrual cup during her next cycle. Menstrual cups are designed to suction to the edges of the vaginal wall, but if they push too hard, they could easily compress the ureter. The doctors advised her not to use the cup and a month later another scan showed the kidney swelling had gone down and her symptoms had disappeared.
"The complete relief of symptoms and regression of [swelling] supported the working diagnosis that the menstrual cup had mechanically obstructed the right ureter," said urologists Dr. Clara Maarup Prip and Dr. Lotte Kaasgaard Jakobsen from Aarhus University in Denmark, who studied the case.
How did the menstrual cup cause kidney injury?
Researchers explained that the patient's symptoms happened due to the incorrect positioning of her menstrual cup.
In cases of a pelvis that tilts back, when some women position the cup above, it can lead to swelling in the kidneys. And so, doctors advise positioning it lower in the vaginal canal. "Although it is quite rare, women should be made aware of symptoms that need medical attention, including flank pain, abdominal pain, and/or [blood in the urine],” said Maarup Prip and Jakobsen. "It is important to choose the correct cup size and shape and insert it correctly to avoid complications."
What are menstrual cups?
Menstrual cups are small, flexible receptacles that are inserted into the vaginal canal to catch menstrual blood and work as an alternative to sanitary pads, period underwear, or tampons during menstruation.
Menstrual cups come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made of different components, which include:
- Natural rubber
- Silicone
- Thermoplastic elastomers
How to safely use a menstrual cup?
- Always wash your hands before inserting your cup.
- You can also apply a water-based lube to the outside of the cup, which reduces friction and makes insertion easier.
- Always tightly fold the menstrual cup in half, holding it in one hand with the rim facing up.
- Insert the cup, rim up, into your vagina like you would a tampon without an applicator.
- Once the cup is in your vagina, rotate it.
- You should always remove your cup by the 12-hour mark. This ensures regular cleaning and helps prevent a buildup of bacteria. Make sure to wash your hands and the cup properly.
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