The menstrual cycle is a dynamic process that involves various changes in a person’s body, including fluctuations in cervical position and hormone levels. These changes are essential for fertility and can influence how people manage their periods and other moisture throughout their cycle, especially with innovative products like menstrual cups and leakproof underwear gaining popularity.
Menstrual Cycle Phases and Cervical Changes
- Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5):
- Cervical Position: During menstruation, the cervix typically sits lower in the vagina and feels firm. This is when the uterus sheds its lining, causing bleeding.
- Using Menstrual Cups: Period cups are an excellent alternative to traditional pads and tampons during this phase. They collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it, offering leakproof protection for up to 12 hours, depending on flow.
- Follicular Phase (Days 1-14):
- Cervical Position: After menstruation, the cervix gradually rises and becomes softer and more open.
- The follicular phase starts on the first day of your period (so there is some overlap with the menstrual phase) and ends when you ovulate, usually between days 7–14. During this phase, follicles in the ovaries develop and produce estrogen to thicken the uterine lining in preparation for a fertilized egg. It starts when the hypothalamus signals your pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
- Best Menstrual Cup: Choosing the right period cup for this phase involves selecting one that aligns with your cervical position changes. Cups with different firmness levels and sizes are available to accommodate these variations.
- Ovulation (Around Day 14):
- Cervical Position: The cervix is at its highest point, soft, and open to facilitate sperm entry into the uterus.
- Using Menstrual Discs: Since cervical fluid tends to increase right before and during ovulation, menstrual discs can be a great way to stay dry and comfortable during this phase. While menstrual discs can be worn during sex, they are not recommended for birth control, so remember to use another method of birth control if having sex while wearing your disc. While menstrual cups and discs can be worn throughout a person’s entire menstrual cycle to collect fluid, it’s a good idea to continue to remove your cup or disc every 12 hours to clean, sanitizing every few days. If you prefer to give your body a break from inserted products for a few days, we recommend period panties which can absorb discharge, urine, and sweat, in addition to period flow.
- Luteal Phase (Days 15-28):
- Cervical Position: As the body prepares for menstruation again, the cervix starts to lower, firm up, and close.
- Managing with Period Underwear: Leakproof underwear are ideal during the end of the cycle. They offer comfortable protection for everyday wetness, and if your period starts earlier than you were expecting, they’ve got you covered!
Benefits of Menstrual Cups and Leakproof Underwear
- Environmentally Friendly: Menstrual cups and leakproof underwear reduce waste compared to disposable pads and tampons.
- Cost-Effective: Long-term use of period cups and leakproof panties can save money spent on menstrual products.
- Comfort and Convenience: These products provide leakproof protection and can be worn for longer periods, reducing frequent changes.
Choosing the Best Products
- Best Menstrual Cup: Consider factors like firmness, size, and material that best suit your body and menstrual flow. Brands that offer menstrual cups made with medical-grade silicone are ideal for personal health and longevity of the product.
- Best Period Underwear: Look for absorbency levels, fit, and comfort to find the right leakproof panties for your needs. Purchasing from brands with generous replacement policies will help you feel comfortable about making the leap and knowing you’ll have assistance if you choose the wrong style or absorbency at first. Making the change can feel daunting. Having a brand in your corner to help you make the switch can make all the difference in the world as you switch to sustainable products.
Understanding how your cervix changes throughout your menstrual cycle can help you choose the right products like cups or leakproof underwear. Whether you opt for a menstrual cup, menstrual disc, or leakproof panties, these innovations offer sustainable, comfortable, and reliable solutions for managing your period effectively.
Explore the options available and find what works best for your unique menstrual cycle and lifestyle needs! Check out this resource if you've wondered "How do period panties work?"
