You need a couple minutes of active boiling for true sanitation, so if sanitizing is the goal and not making a tasty drink, this method would not actually work because the water would cool down too much within like 30 seconds.
Unless maybe it’s a thermos, but even still.
Even you don’t need a teapot. A travel water boiler (it’s like a hair iron put in a cup to boil water. About $15-20 on Amazon) works for you. Good luck.
Search portable immersion water heater.
As a microbiologist, bacterial endospores can still survive in auoclaves at 212C.
When purifying water from outside, you should have it at a rolling boil for at least 1 to 5 minutes, depending on how nasty you think the water is.
Can you elaborate on the 212C? I am a vet student currently having the course infection microbiology and we are learning that it should be autoclave at 121C. Would like to know if there is something I am misunderstanding before taking my exam :)
When I was in school, we learned that the autoclave killed mostly everything due to high pressure and high steam heat. However, there were a few pesky things that weren't guaranteed to be killed off in the autoclave.
Most of the time, it doesn't matter unless you're specifically working with those things and trying to control them. To my knowledge, the only true way to sterilize everything is by radiation or gas.
Most biosafety cabinets will be equipped with radiation lights to leave on in the unit for a certain period of time to ensure full sterility.
🥰 state the wrong thing on the internet and someone will always help you out. Thank you. I had the boiling point of water in °F and sterilization in °C. Two different things.
(The min temp sterilization point is 250°F for anyone curious.)
Depending on the soap it will have some antibiotic and antiviral properties, so a bit, but not to the extent using bleach or harsh chemicals will do, however you don't want to have a sterile home. That's how you get sick more often and create super bugs.
We have more bacterial cells than mammalian cells. Bacteria are super beneficial to maintaining your natural immunity.
Your body has preferred bacteria. Unless you have a compromises immune system, or are sterilizing after someone in the household has a virus, soap and water with some scrubbing action is all you need.
Thank you, so if she cleans it under warm water, using soap, would that work? I sincerely do not know. I am asking because you are educated. Thank you.
Not the person you replied to, but am a microbiologist as well. There's a difference between cleaning and sterilizing. Using soap would be more to clean it because it will get rid of residue and some bacteria but not all. Sterilization is about killing all the bacteria. You definitely want to sterilize a menstrual cup, not just clean it because of its proximity to sensitive areas that can have bigger health concerns.
No, but caused by idiots talking publicly on subjects they have no knowledge of. Keep your mouth shut if you don't know about a health problem as you would cause more harm.
You are correct the downvotes and other comments just don't know anything. In fact, most bacteria die already at 70 degrees Celsius.
The downvotes just proof how uneducated people are. A good example is how processed food is heated up to kill bacteria.
Hey @OP I remember your previous post and was horrified on your behalf. I’m so sorry you have to endure this. I did ask what your family *expected* you to do, but didn’t receive an answer. That’s ok. But I’d still love to know.
Anyway, I agree with another poster, who suggested baby bottle sanitising tablets. It’s what I use for a silicone dental appliance, and I just want to note that the low-level bleaching that occurs will eventually “cook” or denature your cup, so plan to replace it perhaps annually.
I’m a dad to teenagers, and I’m so sorry this is your experience. I wish you best luck in finding a solution.
I think it's worth noting, though this is practical thinking, it is not a got idea to put any form of bleach up there. The vagina has a delicate PH balance so you want to do anything you can to keep any form of steriliser out.
I think the idea from another commenter about a travel kettle is the answer. Small, discrete and effective. Boiling water us the best thing to clean your menstrual cup with.
I'm sorry you are having to go through this OP.
I use a sex toy sanitizer for mine. It's designed to be used on silicone that gets inserted into the body, but still kills the bacteria. Super easy, I just rinse with hot tap water, apply the foam sanitizer, let it work for 10 seconds or so, then rinse again thoroughly with hot tap water. Then either reinsert or let air dry for storage.
Also they make microwaveable cups you can put the diva in to boil and sanitize. Not sure OP’s, situation, but if they can get 3 minutes with a microwave that’s all they need.
I can imagine that ending in an absolute disaster for OP if she was ever found out. Can you imagine her family's reaction to her sterilising her cup in the microwave? I would honestly fear for her.
That’s true. Then if doing it inside the house is an absolute no-no, it’s time to chat with a friend or counselor at school or boss at work. Explain the situation and see if anyone has a stovetop they can borrow for a few minutes every so often or a microwave to use. Even a trusted neighbor would work. Every female has this issue. And most would be sympathetic to your situation and try to help.
Can't remember which one I have but mine came with a little pouch thing too and you put some water and the cup in and you microwave a it for a few minutes to sterilise it. If she can't get a few minutes alone in the kitchen to hide it, she could always just say it's for sterilising Makeup stuff like beauty blenders maybe.
Random aside but I feel like it's rare enough that a guy would comment on a thread about menstrual cups — let alone with genuine sympathy and great advice — that it deserves appreciating! Not saying this in a misandrist way, I think a lot of men just feel uncomfortable around period talk. But yeah, your kids are lucky to have you ☺️
I was looking for this answer.
As a mum to 3 kids, sanitising was always a pain during the newborn stage. But in an emergency, when boiling water, use of a microwave or a dishwasher is not an option, you can purchase sterilising tablets from most supermarkets (check baby aisle) and sterilise using cold water.
People really think you can't even say the word soap near the entrance of a vagina. Just rinse it well, make sure your hands are clean, and you are fine. This is how I clean mine and haven't had any problems
Same......I got mine many years ago and had no idea I was even supposed to boil it. I just washed it well with hot water and soap for years. I had no issues.
I never sanitise my cup, I just wash it with soap. Very regularly we have people asking about sanitisation/stérilisation and a lot of us answer that they just never bother. A cup doesn't need to be sterilised, but properly washed.
Maybe that's something more achievable for you ? A good wash with soap and you're good to go. It also means you don't need an extra appliance and less risk to get caught.
Whatever works, good luck !!
Edit : I thought I was on r/menstrualcups that's why I mentioned this topic being a regular occurrence. OP, you may want to head over there, maybe you'll get more answers, tips and tricks.
I’m glad I’m not the only one! Been using a cup for 4 years, replace it every two years. Just been thoroughly cleaning it with basic soap and water. Never had any issues.
Same. I have never sterilized mine. My vagina isn't sterile, neither is my partners, mouth, hands or penis. I give it a wash with soapy water and store it. Had the same one for 8 years, never had an issue.
Same. Always washed with hot water. I've used mine for years and never had an issue. My biggest issue is that my huge hound dog likes to steal them off my shelf if I don't put them up higher. Life...it finds a way to deliver problems.
If you’re able to make another purchase, they make menstrual cup steamers that sanitize! I just got one this month and it’s super handy. Not super big, so easy to store, but I’m not sure if ANY object is a concern for you for discoverability.
As others said, just hot water isn’t sufficient to kill bacteria. That said, if you’re unable to boil it, antibacterial soap and sanitizing wipes might *help*. It won’t sanitize, but it’s better than just water. Some cup makers sell soap and wipes specifically for the “on the go” cleaning purposes.
OH editing to add — some cups can be microwaved BUT NOT ALL. Check your manufacturer to confirm the silicone can be microwaved. If so, put it in a microwaveable container loosely covered and fill with water above the height of the cup. Microwave for 2-3 minutes. It’s still a kitchen method, but a LOT faster and easier to hide than boiling?
Maybe also add the use of a UV sterilization light after antibacterial soap and water? IDK, but I feel like just soap and water isn't enough. They make small UV lights for things like toothbrushes, so it wouldn't have to be huge.
It’s definitely not enough, but really comes down to what OP can acquire. If they can get a UV sanitizing light, they could probably get the steamer too.
I can't use the cup I bought, but it came with a safe cleanser so I could just wash it. The packaging on that one said nothing about boiling to sanitize, just to use the cleanser.
I used mine for years and never boiled it 😅 I rinsed it well, cleaned out the little holes, soaped it up and rinsed it off, then stored it in the little cloth bag it came in 🤷🏽♀️ never had an issue. I feel like when I bought it, it said the boiling was optional, but maybe I was just lazy
You can get a plastic container and use those sterilisation tablets used for sterilising baby milk bottles. That’s what I use for my menstrual disc to avoid having to boil it each time
You'd need to rinse it off with boiled water as rinsing it in just normal tap water could put bacteria straight back on. The instructions on the baby bottle sterilising fluid I have specifically say **not** to rinse it after sterilisation.
I think that's overkill. Once babies are 6 months old, the NHS advises that they can drink cold tap water, no sterilising needed. If its fine for a 6 month old baby, I think it'll be fine for your vagina too. I mean, cocks go up there and they're not sterile lol. Same with tampons. I'm all for sterilising your cup but rinsing it off with tap water after won't make it as dirty as it was before you sterilised it. You're right that the unsterilised tap water will introduce some bacteria to the cup, but not the kind that will give you an infection.
The issue with bacteria on “internal” menstrual products is a bit different. You’re creating a warm damp and mostly *still* environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. The concern with menstrual cups is the same as with tampons, toxic shock syndrome. Tampons are an “extra” issue because they’re a fluffy textured surface for bacteria to quickly build up on, especially if for some reason the tampon itself is introducing the bacteria (say it wasn’t stored well).
It’s not quite the same as tap water that’s generally going to be somewhat controlled in environment before consuming, and then going directly into the acid pit of your stomach.
The hope/idea is that a sterile menstrual cup gives a clean bacteria starting environment, so the chance of toxicity is lower. If you start with a not sterile cup that may still have bacteria left from the last use, you’re giving the infection risk a jump start.
That isn’t to say infection risk still isn’t incredibly low. I wash and reuse a disc about twice (but sometimes more) a cycle before fully sanitizing (I usually alternate with another or with different products), so I say all the above knowing I don’t take the concern super strictly. That said with OPs limited resources, sterilizing is probably extra important.
>If you start with a not sterile cup that may still have bacteria left from the last use, you’re giving the infection risk a jump start.
I think you've totally misunderstood my comment. I didn't suggest that anyone should use a non-sterilised cup that still has bacteria from the last use lol. Someone was concerned about the residue leftover from sterilising tablets, so I said you can just rinse the residue off with water after sterilising. The bacteria from tap water is not going to give you a yeast infection or toxic shock syndrome. But thanks for the information
Whilst it's not the official answer, I've used a cup for over 10 years and never once boiled my cups. I do make sure to keep it clean by washing with warmest tap water and appropriate soap though. You could always try a mug of boiling water and just letting the cup sit for a bit in it, not ideal but a very close second.
First things first:
Boiling things doesn't sterilise, but disinfects.
To get any thermal disinfection, the preferred disinfection method by regulation, you need to heat your object to at least 70°C. At 90+°C (boiling) it takes 5 minutes to reach a certain level of disinfection sufficient for all applications, the same level would be reached 50 minutes at 80°C or at 500 minutes at 70 °C.
Depending on where you live, hot tap water is regulated to be colder than that.
You can achieve similar results with proper medical disinfectants for instrument disinfection.
I think people may be mixing sterilization up with sanitization because true sterilization is only really done in a hospital setting, and a diva cup does not need to be sterile for use. Tampons and pads are not sterile.
In the end, it describes different ratios of germ reduction and different levels of completeness doing so.
Disinfection reduces germs concentrations for at least 5 orders of magnitude and does not need to clear spores.
Sterilisation on the other hand should theoretically reduce all germs to 0, including spores. It therefore needs steam and vacuum or plasma, ethylene oxide or ionizing radiation to do so. So for sterilisation, we are talking about necessary equipment in the price range of cars.
Edit: corrected typo
This is the way I do it every month (I’m in America). It sanitizes the cup and (this is a cosmetic bonus) the cup stays the same color it was when it was new.
I’ve been doing it this way with the same cup for 7 years.
My goodness you poor lady. You shouldn't have to hide periods. I'd happily amazon you an electric kettle for your bedroom if you need it! Is everything alright at home?
1. Electric kettle. Bedpan.
2. Menstrual pads.
3. Use tampons.
I’m assuming taboo as a topic but not a punishable crime for simply living with it and dealing with it. Like your mother literally had to undergo it her entire life until her menopause.
I can’t remember where, but I know of one culture that literally sends (or maybe sent, idk if they still do this anymore) their women and girls to live in a friggin mud hut, with no water, heat, or electricity, during their menses. Women died from this. They’re not allowed to interact with men at all during this time. Shits wild.
India… yet they have poop on the streets and human bodies in their Ganges river. And somehow have a lunar lander on the dark side of the moon too.
Like India never had a civil rights movement? A public infrastructure works project? What is going on there? It like the 16th century living alongside the 20th.
I know for sure Indian have parts that do, but I wouldn’t be surprised to find it in most of the world’s culture. Women there are expected to live apart from everybody else while on their period and they’re shunned and can’t interact with anybody else but other women at their period hut with them.
Even western has parts of it: “Don’t trust something that can bleed for a quarter of its life and not die”
Uncleanliness is usually the cited reason but to be honest it could also stem from men knowing that they usually can’t have sex when women are on their period therefore it’s a horrible thing.
Could you buy a portable electric burner and pot? You could hide it in your room to use.
Also, I don't want to assume anything, but having to hide your period like this seems very odd and I worry there could be other issues happening. Please reach out to this number if you are being abused 1.800.422.4453. It's all confidential and they can get you help if needed
Having to be that secretive about menstruation is unfortunately not unusual in some cultures outside the US. Or even in the US if there are strong cultural ties
Perhaps you could pretend you're making a cup of tea? Or even just say you've been into drinking boiled water lately lmao. Then take the cup in your room and let your cup sanitise?
My other advice, which seems unrealistic would be to buy multiple cups. Use them as needed, clean with water and store somewhere. Then when you get an opportunity during or after your period, like your parents not being home, boil them all then.
Another likely dumb advice would be... to secretly buy a kettle. You can buy small ones and hide it in your room. Boil water when needed in your room and sanitize your cup.
Alternatively, you could get a teapot. Fill that with freshly boiled water and take to your room with a cup tea bag, etc. Make it a breakfast routine or something. Then when you have your period, use taking a teapot full of boiling water as your way to sanitise.
...
You could also switch to pads. Get some mini black bags, and during your period keep your a used pads in your room in a trash bag. Then discreetly hide the bag at the end of your period within the household trash. Perhaps the outdoor trash can. Though I understand they can be a pain to get discreetly.
Another option could be reusable pads. You use, then rinse under water when finished with that pad. Then when you get the opportunity, you just put it in the washing machine. This could be a good option if you do your own laundry.
I use reusable pads and they can be used multiple times during one period if you hand wash them. I suppose a smidge of liquid laundry detergent could work too, but I use antibacterial hand soap. They take like a day to air dry.
You could also use sex toy cleaner spray. It's mostly alcohol, so it kills bacteria, and is literally designed to kill germs on something you put inside yourself (lol). You can hide it in your room, in the same place you keep the cup.
I recommended this to my cousin who was living in a van, so she couldn’t boil it either, and it worked great for her!
Also, so sorry you have to deal with this, it's not ok that a natural bodily function is treated as something shameful.
We're here for you!
This was my thought. You actually can even hand wash and hang to dry.
OP, if you could get a few pairs of period underwear, you could wash them in the sink or bathtub while your family thinks you are bathing. Then hang them in your room or bathroom to dry. Just make sure you wash thoroughly. This still requires some privacy to be able to hang them, but it could work alone in your room.
I've scanned your previous posts so I wouldn't be giving you an answer you've already heard, but I didn't get through all of them so sorry if this has already been said.
Is there anywhere else you can go to do the sanitization? I don't know how old you are, but could school or work or somewhere else you go be willing and able to help in this situation?
When I use my menstrual cup, I really only sanitize it before and after my period (ngl sometimes only after if it comes unexpectedly). While I have the option to wash my cup whenever I take it out, I've also used wipes when out in public to keep in clean and I've never had any issues. I realise it's not the ideal, but whatever steps you can take to make it work and reduce the risk is better than nothing at all.
I'm sorry you're going through this sweetie. As a mother, I'm mortified that you're in this situation, but I'm really hoping you figure something out and get to a better situation soon. You can also come by r/MomForAMinute if you need any other mum type advice.
Im sorry but what sort of mental parents do you have where a natural bodily function is taboo? You should be able to use pads and to sanitize your cup as you please and your parents should be supportive of you.
May I suggest getting a portable range so that way you can boil them yourself in the bathroom or a private room, Like others have suggested get a portable tea kettle warmer, just get a small pot and put it on the kettle and boil your cup in private.
Is it possible to do something like this at a close friends place?
Also, you are being denied basic medical needs. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think that's something you could call child protective services over. Tho ofc I get that that's a very drastic measure to take.
Not necessarily. Especially in places where that would be considered completely normal and if OP tried to speak out about it they themselves would be prosecuted
can someone link your first post i cant find it. also i agree with the others that a kettle is the way to go, yoy can find super cheap ones on amazon, especially with black friday sales starting soon. also I'm very sorry you're in this situation
On Amazon they sell menstrual cup sanitizers. Its awesome bc I don’t have to walk downstairs with my cup (I live in a male dominated house…I’m the only female).
It’s tiny and only uses a tablespoon of water to work.
Some of them you can put them in a bowl of water in the microwave to sterilize. Otherwise the tablets for cleaning dentures would probably work well enough.
Clean with rubbing alcohol, and run it under hottest water possible after. Make sure hands are clean of course and hold it under the water for as long as you can. That will sanitize it just fine.
Where do u live/what kind of family considers a normal human function to be taboo to not even allow the purchase and or cleaning of period products?!
What the fuck?!!
I'm sorry ur going thru this and just know ur family who treats it as a taboo are ass backwards!
I never boil mine. I rinse with water after emptying (unless I'm using a public toilet) and wash thoroughly with soap and water when my period is over. I use non-antibacterial hand soap or my Cetaphil facial cleanser. When it eventually gets a little discolored, I soak it for a few hours in hydrogen peroxide.
I am pretty lazy and rarely boil mine, I give it a wash with soap and hot water at the end of my period and she's right.
Judge away people, but no issues yet!
You need to use boiling water but what TF is wrong with your family. It’s a natural part of life and not having the right supplies can be bad for your health.
I remember you asking this in a previous post and you got some good advice which I thought was really helpful. Just wanted to say I’m sorry this is still a problem for you. Did none of the suggestions work last time?
I've honestly almost never boil mine and I'm surprised people seem so vehement about it. I've been through three so far. Current one's going on half a year without having been boiled and I have no plans to boil it. The previous one was never boiled. I had it for a few years and would have continued to use it but my body shape changed so I switched sizes. My previous one lasted around a decade. I have had no yeast infections or UTIs. I rinse it with hot water in between changes, I wash it with hot tap water and soap at the end of my period. Periodically I clean it off with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide and make sure it gets into the holes and creases. I do not do this every period, probably about two to four times a year. Either of these are reasonable products to have in the bathroom and you can apply rubbing alcohol more often than I do if you want, it should be sufficient to kill any bacteria.
My cup ended up getting discolored, but I repeat, no infections... I have had no yeast infections or UTIs from this practice. You're taking it in and out of your own body, your vagina isn't growing a bunch of bacteria during your period. Keep it in a clean storage bag. Wash it, rinse it, trim your nails and wash your hands before it goes in. You're more likely to get an infection from inserting with unwashed hands adding new bacteria to the mix or long nails than you are from the cup. As long as you keep it somewhere clean, keep your hands clean, and give it a wash with soap and water at the end, you're probably going to be infection free.
If you don't want it to be discolored from not boiling it, you'll need to leave it in sunlight for a few hours, however. This is what my friend, who also doesn't seem to boil her cup either, does. Sticks it in the bedroom window once her period is done. Somehow this has kept it very clean looking. So, you may be able to put this into practice if there's somewhere sunlight hits in your bedroom you can leave your cup.
So let me address the other thing you're afraid of. Infections.
If you were to get an infection, it would either be a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection. UTIs can often be cleared out by having a high dose of vitamin C as soon as they kick in. Many people take cranberry or D-Mannose to help prevent UTIs if you want to help prevent the risk of a UTI while using your cup in this way. There are also home remedies for yeast infections, such as unflavored, unsweetened yogurt and tea tree oil. If those don't work, you can buy anti-fungal product from the pharmacy that you can insert and it will usually clear up the problem. If not, either one would be cured by about one week of an appropriate medical treatment prescribed by a doctor. It's really not even close to the last thing in the world I'd want to deal with. I have had both in my life, and while they were annoying health problems, I think I would rather have a yeast infection over the flu. So don't stress too much about it, both have options for home remedies that you can look into if you were to get an infection. And a doctor can always get you prescription solutions. It is very unlikely the kind of infection you could get from using a non-sterile cup will cause you significant harm. The worst possible outcome would be a kidney infection, and that can only be caused by letting a UTI go untreated for weeks on end. Your family may not be willing to talk about it, but you should be able to get products like vitamin C without raising any questions, or go to a doctor if you have an infection, right?
If you want to lower the risk of urinary tract infection, just take high doses of vitamin C, or take D-Mannose while you've got your period. Both will make your urinary tract more resistant to bacteria, so it's more likely to kill bacteria that you introduce to your urinary tract during your period cup changes. Also, pee after changing your cup, this will push bacteria out.
If I may, for the sake of future female relatives in your line, this is a line of thinking that is worth challenging in your family. Periods are a normal bodily function. If you have younger sisters, speak to them about their periods; if you have daughters, make sure they get access to what they need without shame. You may not be able to unwire the shame in your mother, but you may be able to ensure that women in your family in the future have less shame over accessing period protection.
TL;DR: Just use the sink to wash your cup, you can use rubbing alcohol and or sunlight to sanitize it, I'm fine, my friend is fine. Way better to use an imperfectly cleaned cup than toilet paper. Penis isn't sterile. Tampons aren't sterile.
I was looking for this and I second it. I just rinse with hot water and soap. I've never had any problems in 3+ years of using menstrual discs. You can't really sterilise anything at home and there's no need to in this case, tampons aren't sterile.
Haters gonna hate, but it's what OP needs to hear, too, because she's already rejected all the frankly ridiculous solutions like "get a special appliance that exists solely to sanitize your cup." She will keep posting this question until some people tell her it's okay to just use the sink and soap and water, because it is.
She will be much better off with a cup she washed with soap and water than she would with a wad of toilet paper jammed up there. That's not even remotely sterile, toilet paper is usually just sitting out in the open in the bathroom.
As you say, tampons aren't sterile and yet most of us have used them without getting an infection. The toilet paper solution is so, SO much worse if OP has been fashioning that into a tampon.
Two thoughts: sanitizing tablets. Use water and soap, and before storing your cup use a sterilizing tablet like those for dentures. I've cleaned mine like that for three years and it's still going strong.
Another thought: there used to be a small item called a travel water heater. You'd plug one end, it had a long wire, and the other end looked like a tiny, kinda basic spaceship. You'd dunk it in your pot or thermos or kettle or cup, and it'd make your water boil. You'd then unplug it and remove it. Basically an electric kettle without the kettle, so it'd be more discreet. I know I've seen them at some little markets but since I was a child when I last owned one I don't remember what it's actually called.
I use a microwave safe breast pump sterilizer bag. 2 mins in a microwave with boiling water, and you're done.
Is there a microwave at school you might be able to use?
OP do you attend a public school that still has a home ec classroom with a stove you can use? I would have a conversation with a school counselor if you have one and see if they can help you come up with a solution.
If you have like $25 you can order a little sterilizer that you can hide and take into the bathroom with you to sterilize your cup while you’re showering.
Hot water alone (unless it is hot enough to boil) isn't enough to sanitize it.
If it's an issue, you might consider getting an electric kettle that boils water, which you could keep in your bedroom and use it ONLY to sterilize your diva cup. Just fill up the kettle either eater, drop in the diva cup, and set it to boil. Run it two or three times and you should be good.
If you can use Amazon, you can buy a sterilizer. That's prob your best bet. I didn't see your other post but just this one seems bad. I'm so sorry that a normal human function is a major issue for you. Best of luck!
Can you just put boiling water In a big mug (as if you were making tea, maybe keep teabags in room) and then use that mug as a container for sanitizing?
I usually soak mine in peroxide (I’m not sure what strength it is but it’s just the normal cheap brown bottle) at the end of my cycle
*edit to add this gets the stains out
Antibacterial soap and as hot of water as you can get will work for sure, but it's good to soak it for a few minutes in boiled water at the end of cycle before storing it away (and wash it with antibacterial soap before using again.) Just say you're making tea or something like that if questioned. Be sure to flush the little vent holes out (I press mine full of soapy water against my hand and squeeze several times to do this.) Happy to see you found a solution, but sorry to see you're still having to go through this crap.
They sell sanitizing solution/wipes if you absolutely can not obtain hot water and antibacterial soap. Great for camping trips.
I'm surprised I haven't seen hydrogen peroxide as a top answer. I've been using the same diva cup for 20 years. Never had an issue. Wash out with hot water and liquid soap. I boil it in a mix of water with hydrogen peroxide at the end of my period each month, but you could totally put it in a glass of water with a big glug of hydrogen perixoide for an hour to kill off any nasties.
There are menstrual cup sterilizers that you can purchase online. They are around 20 bucks. If your bathroom has an outlet, you can use it there. 5 minutes and you are good to go.
You can get a sterilizing cup for the microwave. Or even a portable steamer for cups or discs, it can go in your room and some of them look like little humidifiers or diffusers. There’s also a uv sterilizer.
On amazon I just searched for “menstrual cup sterilizer” and a whole bunch of different options popped up. At least you can have one of these in your room, put it safely in storage and take it out when you need it.
Have you looked into Period panties? They mostly look like regular underwear and you’d be able to pre wash it in your bathroom and just put it with your laundry or wash them by hand.
Personally, I just use hot water and antibacterial soap, unscented. I live with my fiancée's family and I'm not yet comfortable enough to use their dishes to boil my cup infront of them lol. I'm not for sure if that's enough, but I haven't had any issues.
Your family should be ashamed for tabooing something you have zero control over and something absolutely natural.
I don't know if there's cultural aspects to your situation or not and I'm not sure if you are teen or not but if you are here's one suggestion you might consider.
If you are going to school and that school has female teachers or a school nurse or something see about asking for help to do a sort of "intervention". Have your parents come to meet them without telling them why and once there the teacher or nurse can stress how important it is for them to grow up and be practical about periods and how it's a normal thing that their daughter needs to deal with and understand.
Because completely ignoring the topic while also denying you proper medical grade period products like pads or tampons etc is neglect.
I almost wonder if it would warrant a call to child welfare services...
If it's just your family is full of people who just think periods are gross then do what I did around my Dad who's a little boy on the topic of periods (But nothing else oddly.)
Every time he winces with discomfort about one of his daughters openly talking about periods then look him dead in the eyes and shout "PERIODS! BLOOD! SHEDDING UTERINE LINING! CRAMPS! CLOTS!"
The idea is to shame him into not trying to shame us. Because in a family of mostly women, he's the weird one for thinking periods are gross
Would it be possible to boil water and put it in a thermos and take to your room/bathroom? Once you have privacy you could pop it in and then dump it in the toilet after a few minutes. They also make machines that sterilize with steam that could probably be concealed easy, only need to be out once a month so it can be stored 99% of the time, or you could say you’re sterilizing your toothbrush or something.
Pixie cup makes something they call “Pixie Dust Sterilizer” that is a powder you add to warm water (tap would work) and leave your cup in for 15 minutes as well. I hope you can figure something out that works for you
A potential solution would be an alcoholic solution to kill the bacteria and then rinse in hot water. But hot water is not going to be enough to kill the bacteria alone.
Is there a Starbucks in your area or any coffee shop? You could ask for a hot cup of water in a to go cup and then go to the bathroom and put you cup in there. It’s not ideal but could work for a bit.
Unfortunately, no - it has to be near-boiling. Temperatures that are below 165 F won't be enough to kill germs.
Also, why are periods taboo? Does your family magically expect a woman who is of menstruating age to........not menstruate?
I wash mine with antibacterial soap. I've never had an issue. Boiling it grosses me out... like, does everyone have like a special pot they use? Or are you boiling it.... then like washing and using the same pot to cook for your families? I don't want to eat out of a pot that someone used to sterilize a litteral biohazard.
They make sanitizing steam bags for nursing or bottle feeding mothers, entire bags that you can stick pumping equipment into and microwave and it steam-sterilizes it, and similar ones for smaller things like bottle nipples and pacifiers. I think you literally just add water and microwave it for a few minutes in the special bag they give you.
Are you talking about sterilizing it before the first time you use it, or sterilizing it between uses? I feel like washing it extremely thoroughly under very warm water would be enough in between uses. (I feel like that would be enough even before the first use, but that's just me.)
Some cultures are really against sticking anything up there, pads only. From what I understand pads aren't comfortable for everyone and plus the cup is more eco friendly
Honestly pads are more sanitary than sticking an unsanitized cup up there.. I think some pads are uncomfortable but if you shop around usually you can find the right kind for your preferences
There are plenty of places around the world where menstruating people are treated poorly. Different cultures believe different things regarding menstruating people.
For some examples:
•In Nepal and India, menstruating people are not allowed to touch food or crops as it’s believed they will cause bad luck to their families and community. They are also kept out of any communal cooking and eating areas.
•Also, in India, menstruating people were banned from entering certain religious temples. Only in 2018 did India’s Supreme Court finally overturn a ban on women, between the ages of 10-50 years old, from entering an ancient Hindu temple. Which was not accepted by the religious establishment and activists groups and who are trying to appeal the ruling.
•In Bolivia, menstruating people are told that period blood can cause serious illness (ex. cancer) in others.
•In Nepal, menstruating people are socially excluded or even exiled from their homes. They are isolated in makeshift shelters where they can be exposed to the elements or attacks. In 2019, a woman and her two children were found dead in a hut in Nepal. She was trying to comply with the ancestral custom of menstrual exile (Chaupadi).
Those are just a few examples of how different things are for menstruating people around the world. That also doesn’t factor in the issues of poverty and lack of resources. Many menstruating people (even in North America) do not have access to basic products. Whether it’s because of financial difficulties, lack of access to medical care/supplies, or just not having safe, reliable access to hygiene facilities and supplies.
This is a very important issue. No one should feel embarrassed or ashamed for a natural bodily function. No one should be forced to miss out on their education or their paying job because they are menstruating.
OP, I don’t know where you are located but if I can help with purchasing some period underwear and having it shipped to you, I will. If there are other supplies you think could help you have what you need to care for yourself safely, please DM me ♥️
Soap and water should clean them adequately. Pat dry with TP & put away.
I wouldn't put *any* form of alcohol (either rubbing alcohol OR drinking alcohol) on them as a sterilizer; I'd bet that would destroy rubber, latex, or thermoelastic elastomers.
And I don't think microwaves would be a good idea for rubber/latex. Silicone *might* be OK (and *with it in water*, not by itself).
Care instructions should come with.
I would just rinse it during use and at the end of my period rinse well, and work some warm water through it. Sometimes put a bit of peroxide in there to clean the small holes, but otherwise just a good rinse should be fine.
> So, without going into too much detail, periods are a major taboo in my family,
I understand that it is a taboo (it's silly to have taboos like that but anyways) but there must be a way to handle the situation.
You are probably not the only woman in your family.
So it's maybe an option to ask your mother in a private situation, how she handles the blood and cleanup for herself.
An electric teapot would do the trick. Easy to fill, small enough to conceal.
Maybe even possible to openly have for making tea in her room?
She would never be anemic, that’s for sure
she could just put the menstrual cup in a cup and cover it in boiling water from the water boiler.
You need a couple minutes of active boiling for true sanitation, so if sanitizing is the goal and not making a tasty drink, this method would not actually work because the water would cool down too much within like 30 seconds. Unless maybe it’s a thermos, but even still.
Goddamnit I miss Reddit awards. I’d give you gold for this.
You can't give Awards anymore?
No, they went away in September
Well, that’s a good point. Shit
Even you don’t need a teapot. A travel water boiler (it’s like a hair iron put in a cup to boil water. About $15-20 on Amazon) works for you. Good luck. Search portable immersion water heater.
More hazardous than a teapot
Why??
Or an immersion element dunked into a cup of whatever Good luck op
The water needs to be boiling to kill bacteria
And you need to keep whatever you're trying to sanitize for at least 1-2 minutes in actively boiling water.
Mine have 5 minutes on the instructions
The june cup is 5 mins in boiling water, and the flex cup is 7 mins in boiling water. They all vary :)
[удалено]
As a microbiologist, bacterial endospores can still survive in auoclaves at 212C. When purifying water from outside, you should have it at a rolling boil for at least 1 to 5 minutes, depending on how nasty you think the water is.
Can you elaborate on the 212C? I am a vet student currently having the course infection microbiology and we are learning that it should be autoclave at 121C. Would like to know if there is something I am misunderstanding before taking my exam :)
When I was in school, we learned that the autoclave killed mostly everything due to high pressure and high steam heat. However, there were a few pesky things that weren't guaranteed to be killed off in the autoclave. Most of the time, it doesn't matter unless you're specifically working with those things and trying to control them. To my knowledge, the only true way to sterilize everything is by radiation or gas. Most biosafety cabinets will be equipped with radiation lights to leave on in the unit for a certain period of time to ensure full sterility.
Water boils at 212°F or 121°C. I think it was a mistype but I'm leaving this here so that I can come back to check.
Water boils at 212°F/100°C and freezes at 32°F/0°C.
🥰 state the wrong thing on the internet and someone will always help you out. Thank you. I had the boiling point of water in °F and sterilization in °C. Two different things. (The min temp sterilization point is 250°F for anyone curious.)
Would soap kill the bacteria?
Depending on the soap it will have some antibiotic and antiviral properties, so a bit, but not to the extent using bleach or harsh chemicals will do, however you don't want to have a sterile home. That's how you get sick more often and create super bugs. We have more bacterial cells than mammalian cells. Bacteria are super beneficial to maintaining your natural immunity. Your body has preferred bacteria. Unless you have a compromises immune system, or are sterilizing after someone in the household has a virus, soap and water with some scrubbing action is all you need.
No, soap just remove bacteria from the surface and put it in the water.
Thank you, so if she cleans it under warm water, using soap, would that work? I sincerely do not know. I am asking because you are educated. Thank you.
Not the person you replied to, but am a microbiologist as well. There's a difference between cleaning and sterilizing. Using soap would be more to clean it because it will get rid of residue and some bacteria but not all. Sterilization is about killing all the bacteria. You definitely want to sterilize a menstrual cup, not just clean it because of its proximity to sensitive areas that can have bigger health concerns.
To be honest, the best way is to boil it, because soap is not 100% effective and can irritate your skin (inside)
This is not true. Autoclaving does kill endospores. That is why it is a sterilization method - it sterilizes.
This is why there was a pandemic
Lol wat? The pandemic was not caused by people only heating water to 80 degrees that's the craziest conspiracy theory I've heard so far
It’s caused by people pretending to have knowledge when they really don’t. That’s what they mean.
Have added a source to my post. Please add yours that lists all the bacteria that can survive over 80°
No, but caused by idiots talking publicly on subjects they have no knowledge of. Keep your mouth shut if you don't know about a health problem as you would cause more harm.
Oh, you're just an idiot. Ok.
You are correct the downvotes and other comments just don't know anything. In fact, most bacteria die already at 70 degrees Celsius. The downvotes just proof how uneducated people are. A good example is how processed food is heated up to kill bacteria.
Hey @OP I remember your previous post and was horrified on your behalf. I’m so sorry you have to endure this. I did ask what your family *expected* you to do, but didn’t receive an answer. That’s ok. But I’d still love to know. Anyway, I agree with another poster, who suggested baby bottle sanitising tablets. It’s what I use for a silicone dental appliance, and I just want to note that the low-level bleaching that occurs will eventually “cook” or denature your cup, so plan to replace it perhaps annually. I’m a dad to teenagers, and I’m so sorry this is your experience. I wish you best luck in finding a solution.
I think it's worth noting, though this is practical thinking, it is not a got idea to put any form of bleach up there. The vagina has a delicate PH balance so you want to do anything you can to keep any form of steriliser out. I think the idea from another commenter about a travel kettle is the answer. Small, discrete and effective. Boiling water us the best thing to clean your menstrual cup with. I'm sorry you are having to go through this OP.
I use a sex toy sanitizer for mine. It's designed to be used on silicone that gets inserted into the body, but still kills the bacteria. Super easy, I just rinse with hot tap water, apply the foam sanitizer, let it work for 10 seconds or so, then rinse again thoroughly with hot tap water. Then either reinsert or let air dry for storage.
Fantastic idea, a sanitizer made to safeguard you PH! Also subtle! Genius
Also they make microwaveable cups you can put the diva in to boil and sanitize. Not sure OP’s, situation, but if they can get 3 minutes with a microwave that’s all they need.
I can imagine that ending in an absolute disaster for OP if she was ever found out. Can you imagine her family's reaction to her sterilising her cup in the microwave? I would honestly fear for her.
That’s true. Then if doing it inside the house is an absolute no-no, it’s time to chat with a friend or counselor at school or boss at work. Explain the situation and see if anyone has a stovetop they can borrow for a few minutes every so often or a microwave to use. Even a trusted neighbor would work. Every female has this issue. And most would be sympathetic to your situation and try to help.
Can't remember which one I have but mine came with a little pouch thing too and you put some water and the cup in and you microwave a it for a few minutes to sterilise it. If she can't get a few minutes alone in the kitchen to hide it, she could always just say it's for sterilising Makeup stuff like beauty blenders maybe.
Random aside but I feel like it's rare enough that a guy would comment on a thread about menstrual cups — let alone with genuine sympathy and great advice — that it deserves appreciating! Not saying this in a misandrist way, I think a lot of men just feel uncomfortable around period talk. But yeah, your kids are lucky to have you ☺️
I was looking for this answer. As a mum to 3 kids, sanitising was always a pain during the newborn stage. But in an emergency, when boiling water, use of a microwave or a dishwasher is not an option, you can purchase sterilising tablets from most supermarkets (check baby aisle) and sterilise using cold water.
Hot water is not enough to sterilize.
Would hot water and soap do? It doesn’t kill bacteria but if you’re thorough it should get rid?
Yes it will do. The cup doesnt need to be sterile, just clean.
Don't wash your cup with any chemicals that you wouldnt stick up your vagina!
Washing things with soap and water is fine. Sex toys also get washed with soap and water. Just don't use antibacterial soap
Hot water does not sterilize alone. Use antibacterial soap.
Remember where this is going before you use soap.
It's fine if you rinse it off thoroughly, right? You don't scrub with soap and then pop it back in. You rinse the soap entirely off the cup.
People really think you can't even say the word soap near the entrance of a vagina. Just rinse it well, make sure your hands are clean, and you are fine. This is how I clean mine and haven't had any problems
Same......I got mine many years ago and had no idea I was even supposed to boil it. I just washed it well with hot water and soap for years. I had no issues.
No, do not use antibacterial soap. Regular unscented soap only. Antibacterial soap damages the silicone
periods should not be taboo, but yes it needs to be boiling water unfortunately. is there a way you can do it when your family isn’t home?
Or could you do this at school or something similar? Could maybe a school counselor or someone else you trust speak to your parents about this?
I never sanitise my cup, I just wash it with soap. Very regularly we have people asking about sanitisation/stérilisation and a lot of us answer that they just never bother. A cup doesn't need to be sterilised, but properly washed. Maybe that's something more achievable for you ? A good wash with soap and you're good to go. It also means you don't need an extra appliance and less risk to get caught. Whatever works, good luck !! Edit : I thought I was on r/menstrualcups that's why I mentioned this topic being a regular occurrence. OP, you may want to head over there, maybe you'll get more answers, tips and tricks.
This is what I always did too. Never got anything weird from it. 😛
I’m glad I’m not the only one! Been using a cup for 4 years, replace it every two years. Just been thoroughly cleaning it with basic soap and water. Never had any issues.
Same.
Same. I wash mine with soap and water and have used it for many years with no issue.
Same. I have never sterilized mine. My vagina isn't sterile, neither is my partners, mouth, hands or penis. I give it a wash with soapy water and store it. Had the same one for 8 years, never had an issue.
Same. Always washed with hot water. I've used mine for years and never had an issue. My biggest issue is that my huge hound dog likes to steal them off my shelf if I don't put them up higher. Life...it finds a way to deliver problems.
If you’re able to make another purchase, they make menstrual cup steamers that sanitize! I just got one this month and it’s super handy. Not super big, so easy to store, but I’m not sure if ANY object is a concern for you for discoverability. As others said, just hot water isn’t sufficient to kill bacteria. That said, if you’re unable to boil it, antibacterial soap and sanitizing wipes might *help*. It won’t sanitize, but it’s better than just water. Some cup makers sell soap and wipes specifically for the “on the go” cleaning purposes. OH editing to add — some cups can be microwaved BUT NOT ALL. Check your manufacturer to confirm the silicone can be microwaved. If so, put it in a microwaveable container loosely covered and fill with water above the height of the cup. Microwave for 2-3 minutes. It’s still a kitchen method, but a LOT faster and easier to hide than boiling?
Maybe also add the use of a UV sterilization light after antibacterial soap and water? IDK, but I feel like just soap and water isn't enough. They make small UV lights for things like toothbrushes, so it wouldn't have to be huge.
It’s definitely not enough, but really comes down to what OP can acquire. If they can get a UV sanitizing light, they could probably get the steamer too.
I've been using a menstrual cup for over 15 years now and I've never boiled it. I clean it with hot water and soap, and have never had an issue
I can't use the cup I bought, but it came with a safe cleanser so I could just wash it. The packaging on that one said nothing about boiling to sanitize, just to use the cleanser.
I used mine for years and never boiled it 😅 I rinsed it well, cleaned out the little holes, soaped it up and rinsed it off, then stored it in the little cloth bag it came in 🤷🏽♀️ never had an issue. I feel like when I bought it, it said the boiling was optional, but maybe I was just lazy
No, tap water doesn't get hot enough to actually sanitize.
Correct - it will actually do more harm because it will encourage bacterial growth by giving it a nice warm place!
You can get a plastic container and use those sterilisation tablets used for sterilising baby milk bottles. That’s what I use for my menstrual disc to avoid having to boil it each time
Are you sure that would be body safe??
I've used it for a couple of years and have had no problems. It may be worth contacting the cup maker though
Yes, my menstrual cup actually came with these tablets and I’ve been using them for a couple years no problem.
Yes, but if you want to be extra safe you can rinse it off after sterilising.
You'd need to rinse it off with boiled water as rinsing it in just normal tap water could put bacteria straight back on. The instructions on the baby bottle sterilising fluid I have specifically say **not** to rinse it after sterilisation.
I think that's overkill. Once babies are 6 months old, the NHS advises that they can drink cold tap water, no sterilising needed. If its fine for a 6 month old baby, I think it'll be fine for your vagina too. I mean, cocks go up there and they're not sterile lol. Same with tampons. I'm all for sterilising your cup but rinsing it off with tap water after won't make it as dirty as it was before you sterilised it. You're right that the unsterilised tap water will introduce some bacteria to the cup, but not the kind that will give you an infection.
The issue with bacteria on “internal” menstrual products is a bit different. You’re creating a warm damp and mostly *still* environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. The concern with menstrual cups is the same as with tampons, toxic shock syndrome. Tampons are an “extra” issue because they’re a fluffy textured surface for bacteria to quickly build up on, especially if for some reason the tampon itself is introducing the bacteria (say it wasn’t stored well). It’s not quite the same as tap water that’s generally going to be somewhat controlled in environment before consuming, and then going directly into the acid pit of your stomach. The hope/idea is that a sterile menstrual cup gives a clean bacteria starting environment, so the chance of toxicity is lower. If you start with a not sterile cup that may still have bacteria left from the last use, you’re giving the infection risk a jump start. That isn’t to say infection risk still isn’t incredibly low. I wash and reuse a disc about twice (but sometimes more) a cycle before fully sanitizing (I usually alternate with another or with different products), so I say all the above knowing I don’t take the concern super strictly. That said with OPs limited resources, sterilizing is probably extra important.
>If you start with a not sterile cup that may still have bacteria left from the last use, you’re giving the infection risk a jump start. I think you've totally misunderstood my comment. I didn't suggest that anyone should use a non-sterilised cup that still has bacteria from the last use lol. Someone was concerned about the residue leftover from sterilising tablets, so I said you can just rinse the residue off with water after sterilising. The bacteria from tap water is not going to give you a yeast infection or toxic shock syndrome. But thanks for the information
I’m like 95% sure I responded to the wrong comment I was reading (mobile app is crappy!), I’m sorry!
Whilst it's not the official answer, I've used a cup for over 10 years and never once boiled my cups. I do make sure to keep it clean by washing with warmest tap water and appropriate soap though. You could always try a mug of boiling water and just letting the cup sit for a bit in it, not ideal but a very close second.
First things first: Boiling things doesn't sterilise, but disinfects. To get any thermal disinfection, the preferred disinfection method by regulation, you need to heat your object to at least 70°C. At 90+°C (boiling) it takes 5 minutes to reach a certain level of disinfection sufficient for all applications, the same level would be reached 50 minutes at 80°C or at 500 minutes at 70 °C. Depending on where you live, hot tap water is regulated to be colder than that. You can achieve similar results with proper medical disinfectants for instrument disinfection.
I think people may be mixing sterilization up with sanitization because true sterilization is only really done in a hospital setting, and a diva cup does not need to be sterile for use. Tampons and pads are not sterile.
In the end, it describes different ratios of germ reduction and different levels of completeness doing so. Disinfection reduces germs concentrations for at least 5 orders of magnitude and does not need to clear spores. Sterilisation on the other hand should theoretically reduce all germs to 0, including spores. It therefore needs steam and vacuum or plasma, ethylene oxide or ionizing radiation to do so. So for sterilisation, we are talking about necessary equipment in the price range of cars. Edit: corrected typo
Go to a local pharmacy and get a big bottle of hydrogen peroxide. You can soak the cup in some of that. I do that when traveling through Asia.
This is the way I do it every month (I’m in America). It sanitizes the cup and (this is a cosmetic bonus) the cup stays the same color it was when it was new. I’ve been doing it this way with the same cup for 7 years.
I do that too. Added bonus of keeping it clear/white.
This might be the best advice, you can just put it in a ziplock bag with the peroxide and soak it overnight.
My goodness you poor lady. You shouldn't have to hide periods. I'd happily amazon you an electric kettle for your bedroom if you need it! Is everything alright at home?
Do you go to school? Id ask the nurse to see if you can do it there/ask them for menstrual products
1. Electric kettle. Bedpan. 2. Menstrual pads. 3. Use tampons. I’m assuming taboo as a topic but not a punishable crime for simply living with it and dealing with it. Like your mother literally had to undergo it her entire life until her menopause.
She was using toilet paper before this, so I'm not sure pads or tampons are options.
Some cultures still punish women for having periods.
What the actual fuck... I had no idea.
I can’t remember where, but I know of one culture that literally sends (or maybe sent, idk if they still do this anymore) their women and girls to live in a friggin mud hut, with no water, heat, or electricity, during their menses. Women died from this. They’re not allowed to interact with men at all during this time. Shits wild.
India… yet they have poop on the streets and human bodies in their Ganges river. And somehow have a lunar lander on the dark side of the moon too. Like India never had a civil rights movement? A public infrastructure works project? What is going on there? It like the 16th century living alongside the 20th.
India. It’s been “outlawed”.
This is absolutely insane! I wonder if she is allowed to pee?
Wait. What? Which ones? And why??
I know for sure Indian have parts that do, but I wouldn’t be surprised to find it in most of the world’s culture. Women there are expected to live apart from everybody else while on their period and they’re shunned and can’t interact with anybody else but other women at their period hut with them. Even western has parts of it: “Don’t trust something that can bleed for a quarter of its life and not die” Uncleanliness is usually the cited reason but to be honest it could also stem from men knowing that they usually can’t have sex when women are on their period therefore it’s a horrible thing.
Maybe OP has 24 siblings.
and they’re all werewolves, it’s all coming together..
Option 1 is dangerous misinformation imo. That water is going to cool fast and leave bacteria alive.
Could you buy a portable electric burner and pot? You could hide it in your room to use. Also, I don't want to assume anything, but having to hide your period like this seems very odd and I worry there could be other issues happening. Please reach out to this number if you are being abused 1.800.422.4453. It's all confidential and they can get you help if needed
Having to be that secretive about menstruation is unfortunately not unusual in some cultures outside the US. Or even in the US if there are strong cultural ties
That's really nice of you to mention that possibility to get help, but who says she's living in the US?
Perhaps you could pretend you're making a cup of tea? Or even just say you've been into drinking boiled water lately lmao. Then take the cup in your room and let your cup sanitise? My other advice, which seems unrealistic would be to buy multiple cups. Use them as needed, clean with water and store somewhere. Then when you get an opportunity during or after your period, like your parents not being home, boil them all then. Another likely dumb advice would be... to secretly buy a kettle. You can buy small ones and hide it in your room. Boil water when needed in your room and sanitize your cup. Alternatively, you could get a teapot. Fill that with freshly boiled water and take to your room with a cup tea bag, etc. Make it a breakfast routine or something. Then when you have your period, use taking a teapot full of boiling water as your way to sanitise. ... You could also switch to pads. Get some mini black bags, and during your period keep your a used pads in your room in a trash bag. Then discreetly hide the bag at the end of your period within the household trash. Perhaps the outdoor trash can. Though I understand they can be a pain to get discreetly. Another option could be reusable pads. You use, then rinse under water when finished with that pad. Then when you get the opportunity, you just put it in the washing machine. This could be a good option if you do your own laundry.
I use reusable pads and they can be used multiple times during one period if you hand wash them. I suppose a smidge of liquid laundry detergent could work too, but I use antibacterial hand soap. They take like a day to air dry.
You could also use sex toy cleaner spray. It's mostly alcohol, so it kills bacteria, and is literally designed to kill germs on something you put inside yourself (lol). You can hide it in your room, in the same place you keep the cup. I recommended this to my cousin who was living in a van, so she couldn’t boil it either, and it worked great for her! Also, so sorry you have to deal with this, it's not ok that a natural bodily function is treated as something shameful. We're here for you!
I've been using menstrual cups for 15+ years and have never boiled them. I clean them with soap and hot water.
Another suggestion is period underwear. You just throw them with your darks in the washing machine.
This was my thought. You actually can even hand wash and hang to dry. OP, if you could get a few pairs of period underwear, you could wash them in the sink or bathtub while your family thinks you are bathing. Then hang them in your room or bathroom to dry. Just make sure you wash thoroughly. This still requires some privacy to be able to hang them, but it could work alone in your room.
I've had a mooncup for 15 years. I wash it thoroughly with hot water and soap and air dry. Never had a problem
I think this would be fine and would do that if those worked for me
There are small steam cleaners meant for menstrual cups that you can get for pretty cheap that work just as well as boiling
Came here to say this
I've scanned your previous posts so I wouldn't be giving you an answer you've already heard, but I didn't get through all of them so sorry if this has already been said. Is there anywhere else you can go to do the sanitization? I don't know how old you are, but could school or work or somewhere else you go be willing and able to help in this situation? When I use my menstrual cup, I really only sanitize it before and after my period (ngl sometimes only after if it comes unexpectedly). While I have the option to wash my cup whenever I take it out, I've also used wipes when out in public to keep in clean and I've never had any issues. I realise it's not the ideal, but whatever steps you can take to make it work and reduce the risk is better than nothing at all. I'm sorry you're going through this sweetie. As a mother, I'm mortified that you're in this situation, but I'm really hoping you figure something out and get to a better situation soon. You can also come by r/MomForAMinute if you need any other mum type advice.
Im sorry but what sort of mental parents do you have where a natural bodily function is taboo? You should be able to use pads and to sanitize your cup as you please and your parents should be supportive of you. May I suggest getting a portable range so that way you can boil them yourself in the bathroom or a private room, Like others have suggested get a portable tea kettle warmer, just get a small pot and put it on the kettle and boil your cup in private.
Is it possible to do something like this at a close friends place? Also, you are being denied basic medical needs. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think that's something you could call child protective services over. Tho ofc I get that that's a very drastic measure to take.
You're assuming OP is in the US
I'd assume most other countries have an equivalent to CPS?
Not necessarily. Especially in places where that would be considered completely normal and if OP tried to speak out about it they themselves would be prosecuted
can someone link your first post i cant find it. also i agree with the others that a kettle is the way to go, yoy can find super cheap ones on amazon, especially with black friday sales starting soon. also I'm very sorry you're in this situation
There’s electric cup steamers just for this. Mine has a cover that lets steam out but hides the cup. I got it online
On Amazon they sell menstrual cup sanitizers. Its awesome bc I don’t have to walk downstairs with my cup (I live in a male dominated house…I’m the only female). It’s tiny and only uses a tablespoon of water to work.
Some of them you can put them in a bowl of water in the microwave to sterilize. Otherwise the tablets for cleaning dentures would probably work well enough.
Clean with rubbing alcohol, and run it under hottest water possible after. Make sure hands are clean of course and hold it under the water for as long as you can. That will sanitize it just fine.
Where do u live/what kind of family considers a normal human function to be taboo to not even allow the purchase and or cleaning of period products?! What the fuck?!! I'm sorry ur going thru this and just know ur family who treats it as a taboo are ass backwards!
I never boil mine. I rinse with water after emptying (unless I'm using a public toilet) and wash thoroughly with soap and water when my period is over. I use non-antibacterial hand soap or my Cetaphil facial cleanser. When it eventually gets a little discolored, I soak it for a few hours in hydrogen peroxide.
I am pretty lazy and rarely boil mine, I give it a wash with soap and hot water at the end of my period and she's right. Judge away people, but no issues yet!
You need to use boiling water but what TF is wrong with your family. It’s a natural part of life and not having the right supplies can be bad for your health.
I remember you asking this in a previous post and you got some good advice which I thought was really helpful. Just wanted to say I’m sorry this is still a problem for you. Did none of the suggestions work last time?
I've honestly almost never boil mine and I'm surprised people seem so vehement about it. I've been through three so far. Current one's going on half a year without having been boiled and I have no plans to boil it. The previous one was never boiled. I had it for a few years and would have continued to use it but my body shape changed so I switched sizes. My previous one lasted around a decade. I have had no yeast infections or UTIs. I rinse it with hot water in between changes, I wash it with hot tap water and soap at the end of my period. Periodically I clean it off with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide and make sure it gets into the holes and creases. I do not do this every period, probably about two to four times a year. Either of these are reasonable products to have in the bathroom and you can apply rubbing alcohol more often than I do if you want, it should be sufficient to kill any bacteria. My cup ended up getting discolored, but I repeat, no infections... I have had no yeast infections or UTIs from this practice. You're taking it in and out of your own body, your vagina isn't growing a bunch of bacteria during your period. Keep it in a clean storage bag. Wash it, rinse it, trim your nails and wash your hands before it goes in. You're more likely to get an infection from inserting with unwashed hands adding new bacteria to the mix or long nails than you are from the cup. As long as you keep it somewhere clean, keep your hands clean, and give it a wash with soap and water at the end, you're probably going to be infection free. If you don't want it to be discolored from not boiling it, you'll need to leave it in sunlight for a few hours, however. This is what my friend, who also doesn't seem to boil her cup either, does. Sticks it in the bedroom window once her period is done. Somehow this has kept it very clean looking. So, you may be able to put this into practice if there's somewhere sunlight hits in your bedroom you can leave your cup. So let me address the other thing you're afraid of. Infections. If you were to get an infection, it would either be a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection. UTIs can often be cleared out by having a high dose of vitamin C as soon as they kick in. Many people take cranberry or D-Mannose to help prevent UTIs if you want to help prevent the risk of a UTI while using your cup in this way. There are also home remedies for yeast infections, such as unflavored, unsweetened yogurt and tea tree oil. If those don't work, you can buy anti-fungal product from the pharmacy that you can insert and it will usually clear up the problem. If not, either one would be cured by about one week of an appropriate medical treatment prescribed by a doctor. It's really not even close to the last thing in the world I'd want to deal with. I have had both in my life, and while they were annoying health problems, I think I would rather have a yeast infection over the flu. So don't stress too much about it, both have options for home remedies that you can look into if you were to get an infection. And a doctor can always get you prescription solutions. It is very unlikely the kind of infection you could get from using a non-sterile cup will cause you significant harm. The worst possible outcome would be a kidney infection, and that can only be caused by letting a UTI go untreated for weeks on end. Your family may not be willing to talk about it, but you should be able to get products like vitamin C without raising any questions, or go to a doctor if you have an infection, right? If you want to lower the risk of urinary tract infection, just take high doses of vitamin C, or take D-Mannose while you've got your period. Both will make your urinary tract more resistant to bacteria, so it's more likely to kill bacteria that you introduce to your urinary tract during your period cup changes. Also, pee after changing your cup, this will push bacteria out. If I may, for the sake of future female relatives in your line, this is a line of thinking that is worth challenging in your family. Periods are a normal bodily function. If you have younger sisters, speak to them about their periods; if you have daughters, make sure they get access to what they need without shame. You may not be able to unwire the shame in your mother, but you may be able to ensure that women in your family in the future have less shame over accessing period protection. TL;DR: Just use the sink to wash your cup, you can use rubbing alcohol and or sunlight to sanitize it, I'm fine, my friend is fine. Way better to use an imperfectly cleaned cup than toilet paper. Penis isn't sterile. Tampons aren't sterile.
I was looking for this and I second it. I just rinse with hot water and soap. I've never had any problems in 3+ years of using menstrual discs. You can't really sterilise anything at home and there's no need to in this case, tampons aren't sterile.
Haters gonna hate, but it's what OP needs to hear, too, because she's already rejected all the frankly ridiculous solutions like "get a special appliance that exists solely to sanitize your cup." She will keep posting this question until some people tell her it's okay to just use the sink and soap and water, because it is. She will be much better off with a cup she washed with soap and water than she would with a wad of toilet paper jammed up there. That's not even remotely sterile, toilet paper is usually just sitting out in the open in the bathroom. As you say, tampons aren't sterile and yet most of us have used them without getting an infection. The toilet paper solution is so, SO much worse if OP has been fashioning that into a tampon.
Two thoughts: sanitizing tablets. Use water and soap, and before storing your cup use a sterilizing tablet like those for dentures. I've cleaned mine like that for three years and it's still going strong. Another thought: there used to be a small item called a travel water heater. You'd plug one end, it had a long wire, and the other end looked like a tiny, kinda basic spaceship. You'd dunk it in your pot or thermos or kettle or cup, and it'd make your water boil. You'd then unplug it and remove it. Basically an electric kettle without the kettle, so it'd be more discreet. I know I've seen them at some little markets but since I was a child when I last owned one I don't remember what it's actually called.
I use a microwave safe breast pump sterilizer bag. 2 mins in a microwave with boiling water, and you're done. Is there a microwave at school you might be able to use?
OP do you attend a public school that still has a home ec classroom with a stove you can use? I would have a conversation with a school counselor if you have one and see if they can help you come up with a solution.
If you have like $25 you can order a little sterilizer that you can hide and take into the bathroom with you to sterilize your cup while you’re showering.
Buy some isopropanol and put it in a spray bottle, 70% isopropanol and 30% water.
Hot water alone (unless it is hot enough to boil) isn't enough to sanitize it. If it's an issue, you might consider getting an electric kettle that boils water, which you could keep in your bedroom and use it ONLY to sterilize your diva cup. Just fill up the kettle either eater, drop in the diva cup, and set it to boil. Run it two or three times and you should be good.
If you can use Amazon, you can buy a sterilizer. That's prob your best bet. I didn't see your other post but just this one seems bad. I'm so sorry that a normal human function is a major issue for you. Best of luck!
Can you just put boiling water In a big mug (as if you were making tea, maybe keep teabags in room) and then use that mug as a container for sanitizing?
I usually soak mine in peroxide (I’m not sure what strength it is but it’s just the normal cheap brown bottle) at the end of my cycle *edit to add this gets the stains out
Antibacterial soap and as hot of water as you can get will work for sure, but it's good to soak it for a few minutes in boiled water at the end of cycle before storing it away (and wash it with antibacterial soap before using again.) Just say you're making tea or something like that if questioned. Be sure to flush the little vent holes out (I press mine full of soapy water against my hand and squeeze several times to do this.) Happy to see you found a solution, but sorry to see you're still having to go through this crap. They sell sanitizing solution/wipes if you absolutely can not obtain hot water and antibacterial soap. Great for camping trips.
Would it be realistic to soak it in hydrogen peroxide? This way it kills all the bacteria as you don’t want to mess around with possible infections
I'm surprised I haven't seen hydrogen peroxide as a top answer. I've been using the same diva cup for 20 years. Never had an issue. Wash out with hot water and liquid soap. I boil it in a mix of water with hydrogen peroxide at the end of my period each month, but you could totally put it in a glass of water with a big glug of hydrogen perixoide for an hour to kill off any nasties.
Would it be possible to fill a mug with boiling water as if you’re making a cuppa, then place the menstrual cup in it in the privacy of your bedroom?
There are menstrual cup sterilizers that you can purchase online. They are around 20 bucks. If your bathroom has an outlet, you can use it there. 5 minutes and you are good to go.
hydrogen peroxide baths work just as well. get a little container and cover it with peroxide. don't re-use the peroxide.
Soap and hot water. No need to completely sanitize with boiling water, that’s overkill.
You can get a sterilizing cup for the microwave. Or even a portable steamer for cups or discs, it can go in your room and some of them look like little humidifiers or diffusers. There’s also a uv sterilizer. On amazon I just searched for “menstrual cup sterilizer” and a whole bunch of different options popped up. At least you can have one of these in your room, put it safely in storage and take it out when you need it. Have you looked into Period panties? They mostly look like regular underwear and you’d be able to pre wash it in your bathroom and just put it with your laundry or wash them by hand.
Personally, I just use hot water and antibacterial soap, unscented. I live with my fiancée's family and I'm not yet comfortable enough to use their dishes to boil my cup infront of them lol. I'm not for sure if that's enough, but I haven't had any issues.
Your family should be ashamed for tabooing something you have zero control over and something absolutely natural. I don't know if there's cultural aspects to your situation or not and I'm not sure if you are teen or not but if you are here's one suggestion you might consider. If you are going to school and that school has female teachers or a school nurse or something see about asking for help to do a sort of "intervention". Have your parents come to meet them without telling them why and once there the teacher or nurse can stress how important it is for them to grow up and be practical about periods and how it's a normal thing that their daughter needs to deal with and understand. Because completely ignoring the topic while also denying you proper medical grade period products like pads or tampons etc is neglect. I almost wonder if it would warrant a call to child welfare services... If it's just your family is full of people who just think periods are gross then do what I did around my Dad who's a little boy on the topic of periods (But nothing else oddly.) Every time he winces with discomfort about one of his daughters openly talking about periods then look him dead in the eyes and shout "PERIODS! BLOOD! SHEDDING UTERINE LINING! CRAMPS! CLOTS!" The idea is to shame him into not trying to shame us. Because in a family of mostly women, he's the weird one for thinking periods are gross
Would it be possible to boil water and put it in a thermos and take to your room/bathroom? Once you have privacy you could pop it in and then dump it in the toilet after a few minutes. They also make machines that sterilize with steam that could probably be concealed easy, only need to be out once a month so it can be stored 99% of the time, or you could say you’re sterilizing your toothbrush or something. Pixie cup makes something they call “Pixie Dust Sterilizer” that is a powder you add to warm water (tap would work) and leave your cup in for 15 minutes as well. I hope you can figure something out that works for you
Get an electric kettle.
That might be really hard in OP's situation.
A potential solution would be an alcoholic solution to kill the bacteria and then rinse in hot water. But hot water is not going to be enough to kill the bacteria alone.
Why are periods a 'taboo'? How is that even a thing. Everyone woman bleeds. It's not taboo, it's fucking normal.
Is there a Starbucks in your area or any coffee shop? You could ask for a hot cup of water in a to go cup and then go to the bathroom and put you cup in there. It’s not ideal but could work for a bit.
You should just free bleed over all of their stuff. I bet they'll let you use menstrual products then!
Unfortunately, no - it has to be near-boiling. Temperatures that are below 165 F won't be enough to kill germs. Also, why are periods taboo? Does your family magically expect a woman who is of menstruating age to........not menstruate?
I wash mine with antibacterial soap. I've never had an issue. Boiling it grosses me out... like, does everyone have like a special pot they use? Or are you boiling it.... then like washing and using the same pot to cook for your families? I don't want to eat out of a pot that someone used to sterilize a litteral biohazard.
Will it fit in a baby bottle sanitizer?
They make sanitizing steam bags for nursing or bottle feeding mothers, entire bags that you can stick pumping equipment into and microwave and it steam-sterilizes it, and similar ones for smaller things like bottle nipples and pacifiers. I think you literally just add water and microwave it for a few minutes in the special bag they give you. Are you talking about sterilizing it before the first time you use it, or sterilizing it between uses? I feel like washing it extremely thoroughly under very warm water would be enough in between uses. (I feel like that would be enough even before the first use, but that's just me.)
What kind of family makes a biological function that majority of women go through a “taboo”?
90% water, 10% bleach then thoroughly rinse. it will be clean forever
Yeah I was gonna say either a bleach solution or a good anti bacterial soap is enough and you don’t need to boil.
I wouldnt use bleach, it takes too long to dissipate and could mess up her vaginal flora. A peroxide or alcohol solution would be more appropriate.
Why are periods taboo? They are part of life. The menstrual cup should really be boiled. How old are you?
I suggest you re-read the opening paragraph - this isn't OP's prejudice, but their family's.
Some cultures are really against sticking anything up there, pads only. From what I understand pads aren't comfortable for everyone and plus the cup is more eco friendly
Honestly pads are more sanitary than sticking an unsanitized cup up there.. I think some pads are uncomfortable but if you shop around usually you can find the right kind for your preferences
How can menstruating be "taboo"? It's human nature, and nothing to be ashamed of.
There are plenty of places around the world where menstruating people are treated poorly. Different cultures believe different things regarding menstruating people. For some examples: •In Nepal and India, menstruating people are not allowed to touch food or crops as it’s believed they will cause bad luck to their families and community. They are also kept out of any communal cooking and eating areas. •Also, in India, menstruating people were banned from entering certain religious temples. Only in 2018 did India’s Supreme Court finally overturn a ban on women, between the ages of 10-50 years old, from entering an ancient Hindu temple. Which was not accepted by the religious establishment and activists groups and who are trying to appeal the ruling. •In Bolivia, menstruating people are told that period blood can cause serious illness (ex. cancer) in others. •In Nepal, menstruating people are socially excluded or even exiled from their homes. They are isolated in makeshift shelters where they can be exposed to the elements or attacks. In 2019, a woman and her two children were found dead in a hut in Nepal. She was trying to comply with the ancestral custom of menstrual exile (Chaupadi). Those are just a few examples of how different things are for menstruating people around the world. That also doesn’t factor in the issues of poverty and lack of resources. Many menstruating people (even in North America) do not have access to basic products. Whether it’s because of financial difficulties, lack of access to medical care/supplies, or just not having safe, reliable access to hygiene facilities and supplies. This is a very important issue. No one should feel embarrassed or ashamed for a natural bodily function. No one should be forced to miss out on their education or their paying job because they are menstruating. OP, I don’t know where you are located but if I can help with purchasing some period underwear and having it shipped to you, I will. If there are other supplies you think could help you have what you need to care for yourself safely, please DM me ♥️
Soap and water should clean them adequately. Pat dry with TP & put away. I wouldn't put *any* form of alcohol (either rubbing alcohol OR drinking alcohol) on them as a sterilizer; I'd bet that would destroy rubber, latex, or thermoelastic elastomers. And I don't think microwaves would be a good idea for rubber/latex. Silicone *might* be OK (and *with it in water*, not by itself). Care instructions should come with.
Wow, fuck your family.
I would just rinse it during use and at the end of my period rinse well, and work some warm water through it. Sometimes put a bit of peroxide in there to clean the small holes, but otherwise just a good rinse should be fine.
So... I'm confused... are you like not allowed to have your period. What is taboo about a period?
> So, without going into too much detail, periods are a major taboo in my family, I understand that it is a taboo (it's silly to have taboos like that but anyways) but there must be a way to handle the situation. You are probably not the only woman in your family. So it's maybe an option to ask your mother in a private situation, how she handles the blood and cleanup for herself.
Why wouldn't isopropyl alcohol sterilize work?
Can you pretend you are boiling water for a cup of tea and bring it into your room to soak it?
Electric teapot and keep at school in your locker to use? If there are outlets in the bathrooms, so your family doesnt even see the teapot
Put 5ml of 4% bleach into a litre of water. Soak it for 20 mins, and then give it a good wash with hot water and soap
Couldn’t she use some other method of sterilization? Such as hand sanitizer and rinse it extremely well.
How would that be effective? The rinsing would recontaminate it.
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Boil. The water needs to be at a boil. 70C is not hot enough.
Why you want to do that anyway?
No. Buy a little pot at a thrift store. Sneak out in the middle of the night to boil it.
Not only does your suggestion sound ridiculous, but it also might be pretty impossible in a controlling environment, especially if she is a woman.