Menstrual cup dangers: This period product may affect your kidneys

Menstrual Cups, a reusable alternative to period products such as Tampons and Sanitary Pads, have been extremely popular over the past few years. Simply insert a small, flexible bell-shaped cup into your vagina and collects blood for all periods. These cups, usually made of medical grade silicon or rubber, can hold liquid until they are empty. You should follow simple steps to use the product in the correct way during this period. However, if not inserted properly, there may be a risk of menstrual cups. One of the problems is that it can block urinary flow and have a negative effect on the kidneys, which is medically known as renal lonesis.

Menstrual cup risk: know how it is linked to kidney problems

If you are using a menstrual cup, make sure to insert it properly. If not done correctly, it may be that your kidneys and ureters are swelling. This is a tube that keeps pee away from the kidneys. “Swelling of the kidneys and ureters is known as ureteric nephropathy. It occurs due to urinary accumulation. This is often caused by obstruction. Chronic obstruction can damage your kidneys,” says Dr. Ritanbara Bara, gynecologist.

In rare cases, improper use of menstrual cups can contribute to this condition, making urination difficult. A new study published in the BMJ Case Report in February 2025 showed that a woman in her 30s had intermittent pain in the side of her lower back, and sometimes the blood in her urine is blood. This was a rare case of urinary hydrogenoxide nephropathy associated with products of the era. A urinary system scan showed that the menstrual cup was not properly placed in the vagina. After removal of the product for a period, the researchers found that there was a complete regression of the symptoms.

Another study published in a urology case report in 2020 showed that a young woman experienced pain in the side of her lower back. It turns out she is using a menstrual cup. When it was removed, the pain disappeared in a day. This was another rare case of ureteric nephropathy due to inappropriately placed menstrual cups.

Here are some ways to use products during this period that negatively affect your kidneys:

1. Urethra and bladder compression

A firm or large cup can push the bladder or urethra. “If the cup is too high or inserted at the wrong angle, it can put pressure on the urinary tract below, which affects the flow of urine,” says Dr. Bala. Obstruction can slow or block urine flow, causing urine to return to the ureter and kidneys. Over time, this pressure leads to swelling.

2. Increased suction and vaginal wall tension

The period product creates a vacuum seal to maintain. Strong aspiration pulls the vaginal wall and indirectly affects nearby structures such as the bladder and ureter. “This tension can limit the flow of urine, leading to retention of urine and reflux into the ureter,” experts say.

The dangers of other menstrual cups

When used correctly, menstrual cups are safe and effective. However, if used inappropriately, there is a risk of menstrual cups.

1. Suction-related injuries

Pulling the cup without breaking the seal can cause vaginal pain, one of the side effects of menstrual cups. It can cause pain, convulsions, or difficulties that will cause difficulties inserting the cup later. “Always pinch the base or insert your fingers to break the seal before removing the cup,” says Dr. Bala.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis

It is an infection that occurs when the levels of bacteria in your vagina are unbalanced. It leads to vaginal discharge with the smell of fish, causing discomfort there. “It’s one of the risks of menstrual cups, especially if you’ve worn it for more than 12 hours,” says the expert.

3. Toxic shock syndrome

One of the risks of menstrual cups is toxic shock syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Payogen strains. In rare cases, a study published in IDCases in 2021 can also lead to menstrual shock syndrome. “You may experience symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, and flu.

4. Vaginal or neck stimulation

Large or improperly placed cups can cause pain, cramps, or discomfort. If it is inserted too much, it can be pressed against the cervix, causing spots and irritation,” says the expert. Choose the right size based on the height and flow of the cervix to avoid the risk of menstrual cups.

Menstrual Cup Hazards: How to Use It correctly?

The dangers of menstrual cups can be avoided by using them correctly.

1. Choose the right cup

• The small cup is for teenagers, first-time users, or women with a flow of light.
• The large cup is for women who have given birth or have a heavy flow.
• If you feel uncomfortable with your bladder sensitivity or stiff cups, a soft cup is perfect for you.
• Farm cups tend to stay in better locations and may be easier to insert.
• If the cervix is ​​low, a short cup is better.

2. Insert the cup correctly

• Wash your hands properly and then rinse the cup with warm water.
• Sterilize by boiling for 5 minutes before first use and after each menstrual cycle.
• Sit on the toilet, squat down, climb one foot or place it on a high surface.
• Relax the pelvic muscles to facilitate insertion and avoid the risk of menstrual cups.
• Fold the period product in half to create a “C” shape.
• Push one side of the rim into the cup and add a small tip.
• Fold one side diagonally into the shape of “7”.
• Hold the folded cup and gently insert it into the vagina at a slight 45-degree angle towards the tailbone.
• Pop inside to create a sticker on the vagina wall.
• Move your fingers around the rim to make sure they are completely open.
• Gently rotate or wiggle the base to improve the seal.
• If inserted correctly, do not feel the product.

3. Remove the cup

• Again, wash your hands before removing products during this period.
• Pinch the base or insert your finger along the cup to release the seal.
• Do not pull it out with the stem alone to avoid discomfort or suction damage.
• If you want to use it again, empty, rinse, and reinsert.

The danger of a menstrual cup may be because you are not using it the right way or have not worn it for a long time. “You can wear it for 6 to 12 hours, but if there is a heavy period of time, you should empty it every 4 to 8 hours,” says the expert.

An inappropriate menstrual cup can lead to urinary hydrogen oxide nephropathy by blocking the flow of pee. There is more menstrual cup risk, including toxic shock syndrome. Therefore, while purchasing these cups, choose the right size, hardness and shape and place them correctly to prevent health problems.