In a lot of unsurprising ways, being a menstruator can be hard. We set goals, plan out the perfect strategies to attack our to-do lists, and prep for all the case scenarios for the small things that can go wrong along the way...and then your period starts. There’s no bigger productivity killer than all the cramps, the pain, and the swelling during those four days to a week. But we all find ways to power through! Here are the best natural cramp relief tips you may not know about.
There’s nothing better than heat for loosening your uterus and improving your blood flow. If your cramps are especially bad, jumping in a hot shower or sitting down and enjoying a warm bath for at least 15 minutes can help the pain ease while helping you relax in the process. For more targeted or smaller cramping, keep a heating pad on hand or even a spare water bottle on hand! Heating that bottled water in the microwave and wrapping it in a towel can work well in a pinch.
Yoga is a great way to get active and reduce cramps naturally! Not only can it offer some pain relief, it’s also thought to help ease stress, anxiety, and even headaches. Whether you break out your yoga pants to watch a guided YouTube video or simply sit or lay on your bed in silence when you wake up, here are five recommended poses (Shape Magazine) that can help ease your pain:
Bound Angle Pose (or Baddha Konasana) — perfect for cramp relief
Reclined Bound Angle (or Supta Baddha Konasana) — a great anxiety annihilator
Child’s Pose (or Balasana) — simple, easy to do, and calming
Reclining Twist (or Bharadvaja) — get for stimulation due to an increase of blood flow
Inverted leg pose (or Viparita Karani) — reorient your mental focus and recharge your creativity
There’s nothing better for your body during your period than a jolt of dopamine and serotonin (Healthline)! From headaches to body aches, these two hormones concoct a perfect, natural pain reliever. So whether you go solo with your choice of sexually enhancing aids or you opt to grab your partner, a bit of pleasure can reduce a bit of that period pain. There are many additional benefits to this, too!
Can improve your overall mood
Can help you sleep better
May shorten your cycle
When you think of the perfect spa day, do you picture a good massage? When your cramps get too much and you’re looking to wind down, gently rub your abdomen in a circular motion for a few minutes for another great way to bid that pain goodbye. Other great areas to spoil include your lower back and your feet! The warmth of your palm paired with the motion of your hand will work to relieve the area, especially when you add in an oil or two.
Essential oils can do so many things! But when you’re cramps get to you the worst, they can actually enhance a massage to not only aid in alleviating the pain. Some oils will help your body relax faster and soothe your mind in the process, too. It’s important to note that you should always mix only a few drops of your choice of essential oils with some sort of carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil). Here are some of the best ones for massages during your period:
Lavender
Rose
Clove
Sage
Cinnamon
Most menstruators who regularly use tampons feel fine. However, there are those who can experience severe cramping with or without another underlying medical ailment or diagnosis. The culprit may be your tampon! It may be strange to hear, but it’s not all that uncommon these days. If you’ve made your way around some of these other natural remedies and even tried some prescribed methods and you’re still at square one, a great experiment to do for yourself is switching your period products.
Why can tampons actually cause cramps? It comes down to the way they’re made. They’re an internal option designed with absorbent cotton or rayon. They penetrate and absorb, meaning the already stiff and thick tool only gets bigger the more it takes in. An internal alternative is using a menstrual cup. Made of flexible materials that collect your menstrual blood, this option molds to your vaginal walls without much fuss.
So next time skip the tampon and grab a menstrual cup, such as the Sckooncup!
Sources
General references for the blog post:
]]>This year’s Women’s History Month captured the spirit of spring: a season of transition and reflection. In March, the focus was on remembering the battle for women’s suffrage and the people who made it happen.
Just like the seasons, change is inevitable. With winter out of the way and Spring Break officially over, the promise of summer glimmers on the proverbial horizon! Have you felt the shift yet? The pandemic still rages on, but the end is in sight thanks to the increasingly accessible vaccine. All eyes zero in on this summer.
After more than a year of being cooped up in our homes with a stockpile of toilet paper and a surplus of anxiety, unwinding at the beach and chasing pre-pandemic adventures will be the ultimate way to enjoy this summer. Most of us have had enough surprises to last through the next decade. Or two. Your period should not foil your poolside plans. You deserve some summer fun.
The short answer? Yes! New or young menstruators may wonder how and if this is even possible. Is there special swimwear for periods to look out for when you shop? What are the options?
Experts recommend using internal products like tampons or reusable menstrual cups. Tampons typically fit high in the vagina, which stays closed while you swim. With menstrual cups - the flexible silicone seals along the vaginal walls to prevent leaks and movement. Both options are safe.
Things like comfort and functionality have a lot of mileage outside of your cozy home. A comfortable outfit and bringing the right things can mean the difference between a good and bad time. Bathrooms may get crowded and may not always be available to you when you need them. This is pretty much the worst-case scenario if you happen to start your cycle at the beach unexpectedly.
Preparation is crucial, and knowing all of your options in advance will keep the stress at bay should this happen. Swimming or enjoying the beach on your period isn’t as impossible as you might think. Menstruators have plenty of options to ensure that a period isn’t what grinds their fun to a sputtering halt. The two most popular options are tampons and menstrual cups.
First invented by Earl Haas in 1931, tampons were a hallmark of feminine hygiene in the 21st century. Tampax, the original commercial brand of tampons produced by Gertrude Tendrich, first used Haas’ patented design. To understand the history of menstrual cups, check out this blog post we wrote a while back for more information.
The key difference between both is that, on average, tampons last no more than eight hours after insertion. With menstrual cups, this increases for up to 12 hours. Why? Tampons absorb whereas menstrual cups collect. All that extra time does come with the caveat that menstrual cups have a bit of a learning curve at first. They tend to have a much lower risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Since menstrual cups are reusable, they can prevent a last-minute scramble to the drug store.
Like the beach, pools can breed an equal amount of dread when you’re on your period. Experts recommend using your choice of tampons or menstrual cups when you swim. Both options are safe; however, because tampons absorb, it’s a best practice to swap it out for a new one once you get out of the pool.
Specialty brands offer period-proof swimwear if you prefer to not use either insertion menstrual options. Ordinary pads, though, aren’t a good option underwater. Because disposable pads are external products, they’ll absorb the water and get soggy when submerged—effectively rendering them useless.
Overall, internal menstrual products work best for swimming. Tampons and menstrual cups are the most accessible options for most menstruators. Because menstrual cups do not absorb any blood, you won’t have to worry about emptying them after your dip in the pool. Regardless of whichever option you choose, both tampons and reusable cups have pros and cons to consider.
SckoonCup is a reusable feminine hygiene product that is used during menstruation. It is inserted into the vagina and one can keep it inside for 12 hours, SckoonCup could be reused for over 7 years. Its purpose is to collect, prevent menstrual blood from leaking onto the clothes. It is made in the USA of 100% FDA approved Medical Grade Silicone. Silicon are hypo allergic, made from earth sand, a natural material which means that the wearer can be safe from unwanted irritation and allergies, and low risk of toxic shock syndrome (North & Oldham, 2011; Karnaky, 1962), in addition 100% Eco friendly product. SckoonCup is available in a smaller and a larger size, where smaller size is recommended for women under 30 (who have not given birth vaginally) and the larger size is recommended for women who are over 30 (have given birth vaginally or have a heavy flow).
First made in USA with USA FDA Medical Grade Silicone + Only durable single-piece + 3 years research = SckoonCup will change your hygiene experience forever.
For years, menstruators were only given or known about two options, pads, and tampons. Many choose to solely use one product or a combination of the two. As women search for healthier products that are both easy-to-use, enviromental safe and cost-effective, a strong market for menstrual cups has emerged. The introduction of the menstrual cup has been revolutionary and taking the market by storm in developed countries, yet this product has yet to make an impact developing countries, where they are needed the most.
1- Reusable, SckoonCup can last up to 10 years of use or more (City to Sea 2019),
2- Made in the USA of top quality FDA approved USA Medical grade silicone
3- It does not cause harm to the vaginal area/cervix (North & Oldham, 2011; Karnaky, 1962),
4- The cup is composed of hypoallergenic material (medical Grade Silicone), Being made from sand means that silicon is the second most abundant element on Earth, which is natural material and there is evidence that there is a very low risk of toxic shock syndrome (North & Oldham, 2011; Karnaky, 1962).
5- Menstrual Cup has also been proven to be inexpensive in the long run (van Eijk et al., 2019). The cup also is an onetime payment that lasts for 10 years. People spend approximately $15,000 - $20,000 on pads/tampons in their lifetime (Mah, 2019). Versus only spending between $20-$40 for a cup that lasts for a decade. This invention potentially saves the user $14,850 - $19,850 of money for a lifetime.
6- has linkage to human rights and gender equality issues (UNOHCHR, 2014; Human Rights Watch 2017; Kosin, J., 2018),
7- There is a minimal risk of the reproductive tract or systemic infection (Stewart et al., 2010; Stewart et al., 2009),
03-10-2020 07:24 AM CET | Health & Medicine
Press release from: Orian Research
In the past decade the menstrual market has been rapidly and steadily growing as menstrual cups become more mainstream. The global menstrual cup market accounted for around $632 million in 2018 and is expected to reach $963 million by 2026, registering a CAGR of 5.3% from 2019 to 2026, with top companies Diva,IrisCup, The Keeper, Anagin, SckoonCup, Femmycycle, Lunette, LyfieCup.
Market Dynamics
Drivers
Restraints
Opportunity
Menstrual health and sustainable developmental goals:
(1) no poverty, (3) good health and well-being, (4) quality education, (5) gender equality, (6) clean water & sanitation, (8) decent work & economic growth, (9) industry, innovation & infrastructure, (10) reduced inequalities, (11) sustainable cities & communities, (12) responsible consumption & production, (13) climate action, and (15) life on land. Under the category, no poverty, eradicating “period poverty” in countries helps close the socioeconomic gap that is especially seen between genders. The cost for menstrual products adds up which is costly for menstruators.
Menstrual products need to be handmade because production is not made available. Well developed countries charge menstrual products at higher prices including “pink tax” also referred to as “tampon tax”. Creating universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services will help increase good health and well-being for all.
Menstruators sometimes skip school which can lead to lower quality of education, by increasing knowledge of menstrual health taught for all genders helps create gender equality and eliminate gender disparities in education.
Women benefit from the 5th SDG by ensuring they have full participation in public life and universal access to sexual and reproductive health. This further takes on a gender-sensitive approach to accommodate all individuals. Clean water and sanitation are a necessity for menstruators to create a safe clean environment when using menstrual products and public facilities. This goal aims to remove open defecation, provide clean high-quality water, and easily accessible bathrooms that can be used with confidence and security.
Menstruators that need to take sick days or period leave because of their menstruation. When these individuals are absent from their jobs, it decreases the economic growth in their respective occupations and slows work production. It is important that developing countries especially create sustainable communities that are not reliant on commercialized production of menstrual products so that they can provide for their community menstruators. Universal access to inclusive, accessible, green, and public products and environment ensures a reduction of inequality and greater quality of health.
Many of the menstrual products created are not environmentally friendly. Since menstruation affects 1.8 billion people in the world, to reduce land waste it would be best to create products that produce the least amount of waste so that generations after would not have to contribute or worry about climate change.
SckoonCup Made in the USA of the purest grade of 100% FDA approved USA medical grade siliocne. Medical grade silicones are silicones derived from sand (quartz), the most naturally abundant material on our planet. Medical grade silicones are tested for biocompatibility and are appropriate to be used for medical applications. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) regulates devices implanted into the body.
Medical grade silicone Silicone is biodigradable, resistant to bacteria buildup, and won’t interact with your body’s pH and is not linked to TSS. – making it perfect for medical devices like SckoonCup menstrual cups.
Because SckoonCup is made of 100% medical grade silicone, it won’t interact with your body’s pH and is not linked to TSS. Unlike tampons and reusable pads that contains harmful chemicals like Dioxin and furan
Dioxin:
A bill introduced in Congress in March 1999 by Representative Carolyn Maloney of the 14th District of New York -- the Tampon Safety and Research Act of 1999 (HR 890) -- noted that "dioxin is a byproduct of chlorine-beaching processes used in the manufacture of paper products, including tampons, sanitary pads, panty liners and diapers." HR 890 further pointed out that the effects of dioxin are cumulative and that the chemical may stay in the body for 20 years after exposure.
Furan:
A close relative of dioxin, furan, is also found in bleached paper products, including sanitary pads, diapers and tampons. Research published in the Textile Research Journal in 2007 extracted the chemicals found in sanitary pads and tampons throughout the world. While results varied among products, octachlorinated dioxin (OCDD), hexachlorodibenzofuran (HxCDF) and octa-chlorodibenzofuran (OCDF) were detected. These are all banned toxic substances.
The issue of safe feminine hygiene product options is rarely discussed, but it's a vitally important topic for roughly a third of the population.Why? Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and also the thinnest. Less than one-tenth of an inch separates your body from potential toxins. Worse yet, your skin is highly permeable -- especially the skin in and around the vaginal area.
Anything coming in constant contact with your skin will land in your bloodstream for distribution throughout your body. This is why I'm so fond of saying "Don't put anything on your body that you wouldn't eat if you had to."
Chemicals on your skin may be worse than eating them. At least enzymes in your saliva and stomach help break down and flush chemicals from your body. But when they touch your skin, they're absorbed straight into your bloodstream, going directly to your delicate organs. Once in your body, they can accumulate because you typically lack the necessary enzymes to break them down.
In my opinion, feminine hygiene products can be likened to a "ticking time bomb" due to years of exposure. The average American woman uses 16,800 tampons in her lifetime -- or up to 24,360 if she's on estrogen replacement therapy.
And that's just tampons. Many women use different types of sanitary pads, alone or with tampons, and there's also nursing pads.
When Andrea of called Procter & Gamble directly to discover the contents in their Always Infinity pads, the service reps could only mention two: foam and a patented ingredient called Infinicel -- a highly absorbent material able to hold up to 10 times its weight.
The Always Infinity pad with its mostly undisclosed ingredients creates black smoke and thick residue, indicating the pad may contain dioxins, synthetic fibers and petrochemical additives.
In fact, conventional sanitary pads can contain the equivalent of about four plastic bags! With everything we now know about the hazardous nature of plastic chemicals, this alone is cause for concern.
For example, plasticizing chemicals like BPA and BPS disrupt embryonic development. They're linked to heart disease and cancer. Phthalates, which give paper tampon applicators a pads smooth finish, are known to disregulate gene expression, and DEHP may lead to multiple organ damage. Synthetics and plastic restrict air flow and trap heat and dampness, potentially promoting yeast and bacteria growth in your vaginal area. Besides crude oil plastics, conventional sanitary pads can also contain other potentially hazardous ingredients, such as odor neutralizers and fragrances.
Menstrual pads and tampons are positioned in or on a vasculaer channel of a woman's body -- meaning the area is highly absorbable. In my holistic healing practice, I share with my client's information about ingredients that might affect their female reproductive organs, hormonal balance, and/or overall health
How do tampons and pads get that ultra-white "clean" look? Usually chlorine bleach, which can create toxic dioxin and other disinfection by-products (DBPs) such as trihalomethane. Studies show dioxin collects in your fatty tissues. According to an EPA draft report, dioxin is a serious public health threat that has no "safe" level of exposure! Published reports show that even trace dioxin levels may be linked to:
• Abnormal tissue growth in the abdomen and reproductive organs
• Abnormal cell growth throughout the body
• Immune system suppression
• Hormonal and endocrine system disruption
Numerous alarm bells went off as researched potential hazards of feminine products for her book, Label Lessons, such as:
• Conventional tampons and pads contain pesticides: A whopping $2 billion is spent annually on pesticides to spray cotton crops.
• Conventional tampons and pads contain genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). According the USDA, 94 percent of all U.S. cotton is genetically engineered.
• Tampons and pads with odor neutralizers and artificial fragrances are virtually a chemical soup, laced with artificial colors, polyester, adhesives, polyethylene (PET), polypropylene and propylene glycol (PEG), contaminants linked to hormone disruption, cancer, birth defects, dryness and infertility.
Using a GMO tampon several times every month was any different than ingesting GMO food. But it may even be worse, considering the vaginal wall is highly permeable, allowing toxins like pesticide residue and GMO proteins direct access into the bloodstream.
In the featured article, Andrea Donsky, founder of Naturally Savvy and co-author of Label Lessons: Your Guide to a Healthy Shopping Cart, reveals how little we're told about the materials in feminine products. In fact, tampon and sanitary pad manufacturers aren't required to disclose ingredients because feminine hygiene products are considered "medical devices."
• Sudden high fever
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low blood pressure
• Seizures
• Rash on palms or soles of feet
• Muscle aches
• Redness of your eyes, mouth and/or throat
credit: www.huffpost.com
Menstrual Cup has also been proven to be inexpensive in the long run (van Eijk et al., 2019). The cup also is an onetime payment that lasts for 10 years. People spend approximately $15,000 - $20,000 on pads/tampons in their lifetime (Mah, 2019). Versus only spending between $25-$40 for a cup that lasts for a decade. This invention potentially saves the user $14,850 - $19,850 of money for a lifetime.
To sleep soundly all night, insert it in the evening, and get up in the morning to remove it.
For active life, on the shore or in the water.
For heavy days, SckoonCup will protect you from leakage. It is small but engineered to be high capacity.
All you need is one SckoonCup for both light and heavy days. Save money and save time.
SckoonCup will provide 12 hour protection for those days where you're on the go.
Busy women find SckoonCup especially convenient. Enjoy a leakage free period all day long.
Established in Soho NYC year 2000, an Eco-Conscious Brand and one of the pioneers of the Green Concept in The USA. SckoonCup reflects the ideals we are passionate about at Sckoon, both for our customers and the planet. Sustainability and environmental accountability are things we take seriously, and we know you do too. That’s why we’ve been an organic brand for over 19 years and one of the pioneers of green concepts. Providing menstrual health Education and resources to establish menstruation as a social norm. Combating period poverty by lowering the barriers to Accessing menstrual care products, through SckoonCare foundation. Our customers love Sckoon products so much we can't help but grow. But you can be sure that as we develop, we're keeping our core values in check. |
Sckoon Inc among top 10 Global Childrenswear companies 2019.
Yes, if you are a virgin, you can use a menstrual cup.
In fact, you can start using a menstrual cup as soon as you get your period.
Although there is no age limit; it does however require that you are comfortable with your body and period.
Virgins and young girls’ vaginal muscles tend to be tighter, which can make insertion a bit more difficult.
Therefore, you might want to practice in the beginning. If it feels uncomfortable don’t force it, but take a break, relax and try again later.
The entrance of the vagina is more tense and smaller in width than the rest of the vagina so gradually adapting your body to accommodate the menstrual cup will make insertion easier.
No, the vagina won’t stretch from using a menstrual cup.
The vagina is pretty extraordinary like that as the muscle is able to stretch and go right back to its original shape – much like a rubber band.
This means that something as small as a menstrual cup or a tampon will not cause you to stretch out.
If you are a virgin, we recommend choosing SckoonCup Size 1.
Approximately 11,000 disposable pads and/or tampons in a lifetime? Multiply that number by everyone on this planet that gets his or her period and that equals a substantial amount of waste. SckoonCup is made in the USA of 100% FDA approved medical-grade silicone.
SckoonCup:
e-mail: service@sckoon.com
Site Sckoon USA: https://www.sckoon.com
Site Sckoon Japan and Asia: https://www.sckooncup.jp
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SckoonCup
Blog: http://www.sckooncup.com/blog
Sckoon: https://www.facebook.com/Sckoon
SckoonPads https://www.facebook.com/Sckoonpads
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/Sckooncup
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Sckoon
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Sckoon
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/sckoon/
Tumblr: http://sckooncup.tumblr.com/
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On Jan 4th 2018, one of the biggest snow storm hit the east coast.
I was on my way to get to JFK from Tokyo, only to find out that JFK got closed 6 hours after we departed Japan. So we took a quick stop in Chicago, and were planned to depart for NYC after we fed the plane with fuel again.
Yet that "quick" stop turned out to be my longest flight ever…
When we arrived in Chicago at 6pm, the in-flight announce told us that we had to wait on plane to depart again because all gates and terminals are crowded people dispersed from other flights which also tried to get to NYC. They told us it was going to be 2-3 hours of waiting after 12 hours of flight.
When they told us that, I wanted to scream,
Having long flights while on my period is one of the most frustrating experiences. Having to sit for a long time with my cramps and the anxiety that I can never know if it leaks or if my pad is at the right position etc. makes the whole travel experience x100 worse. Even if I could go to bathroom during my flight now and then, the bathroom is tinier than my dog's cage and it is really hard to change pads or tampons while meticulously trying to not touch anything disgusting in there. I really try to stop myself for worrying too much by watching countless movies, but my vagina wouldn't let go of my consciousness.
This time, I did have to deal with cramps and squeeze my dull body in an economy cubicle seat, but I did not have to go to that nasty bathroom more than twice. That is all because I was wearing a SckoonCup.
Menstrual cups is a new alternative to disposable tampons and pads. It's a cup made of medical-grade silicon that has a little fringe at the bottom of the cup like its tail.
When my period comes, I just pop my SckoonCup in, and don't have to worry about taking it out for the next 12 hours. It collects two and half to four times more menstrual blood than tampons so your mind and body are free like a bird throughout the day.
When taking it out, I just dump it out. Since the menstrual flow isn't exposed to air, there is no odor. In public bathrooms or in-flight bathroom where I don't have access to private sink, perfume-free soap or clean water, I just rinse the cup or wipe the cup with paper towels. And it's right back in.
In addition to those functional advantages, SckoonCup prepares 7 different colors. Each of them has its own unique name and meaning to personalize period experiences with SckoonCup. And lucky or odd enough, I was wearing Zen in that upsetting flight.
After hours of hours of waiting on plane, we were finally freed. The flight landed in Chicago at 6pm, but we got to our hotel past midnight. During this 6 hours, I did not have to run into bathroom being scared to pull my pants down and find a blood stain.
With SckoonCup, period traveling is not so bad.
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A 2016 study found that it took longer for people to correctly identify the gender of female faces displaying an angry expression, as if the emotion had wandered out of its natural habitat by finding its way to their features. A 1990 study conducted by the psychologists Ulf Dimberg and L.O. Lundquist found that when female faces are recognized as angry, their expressions are rated as more hostile than comparable expressions on the faces of men — as if their violation of social expectations had already made their anger seem more extreme, increasing its volume beyond what could be tolerated.
In “What Happened,” her account of the 2016 presidential election, Hillary Clinton describes the pressure not to come across as angry during the course of her entire political career — “a lot of people recoil from an angry woman,” she writes — as well as her own desire not to be consumed by anger after she lost the race, “so that the rest of my life wouldn’t be spent like Miss Havisham from Charles Dickens’s ‘Great Expectations,’ rattling around my house obsessing over what might have been.” The specter of Dickens’s ranting spinster — spurned and embittered in her crumbling wedding dress, plotting her elaborate revenge — casts a long shadow over every woman who dares to get mad.
If an angry woman makes people uneasy, then her more palatable counterpart, the sad woman, summons sympathy more readily. She often looks beautiful in her suffering: ennobled, transfigured, elegant. Angry women are messier. Their pain threatens to cause more collateral damage. It’s as if the prospect of a woman’s anger harming other people threatens to rob her of the social capital she has gained by being wronged. We are most comfortable with female anger when it promises to regulate itself, to refrain from recklessness, to stay civilized.
Consider the red-carpet clip of Uma Thurman that went viral in November, during the initial swell of sexual-harassment accusations. The clip doesn’t actually show Thurman’s getting angry. It shows her very conspicuously refusing to get angry. After commending the Hollywood women who had spoken out about their experiences of sexual assault, she said that she was “waiting to feel less angry” before she spoke herself. It was curious that Thurman’s public declarations were lauded as a triumphant vision of female anger, because the clip offered precisely the version of female anger that we’ve long been socialized to produce and accept: not the spectacle of female anger unleashed, but the spectacle of female anger restrained, sharpened to a photogenic point. By withholding the specific story of whatever made her angry, Thurman made her anger itself the story — and the raw force of her struggle not to get angry on that red carpet summoned the force of her anger even more powerfully than its full explosion would have, just as the monster in a movie is most frightening when it only appears offscreen.
This was a question I began to consider quite frequently as the slew of news stories accrued last fall: How much female anger has been lurking offscreen? How much anger has been biding its time and biting its tongue, wary of being pathologized as hysteria or dismissed as paranoia? And what of my own vexed feelings about all this female anger? Why were they even vexed? It seemed a failure of moral sentiment or a betrayal of feminism, as if I were somehow siding with the patriarchy, or had internalized it so thoroughly I couldn’t even spot the edges of its toxic residue. I intuitively embraced and supported other women’s anger but struggled to claim my own. Some of this had to do with the ways I’d been lucky — I had experienced all kinds of gendered aggression, but nothing equivalent to the horror stories so many other women have lived through. But it also had to do with an abiding aversion to anger that still festered like rot inside me. In what I had always understood as self-awareness — I don’t get angry. I get sad — I came to see my own complicity in the same logic that has trained women to bury their anger or perform its absence.
For a long time, I was drawn to “sad lady” icons: the scribes and bards of loneliness and melancholy. As a certain kind of slightly morbid, slightly depressive, slightly self-intoxicated, deeply predictable, pre-emptively apologetic literary fan-girl, I loved Sylvia Plath. I was obsessed with her own obsession with her own blood (“What a thrill ... that red plush”) and drawn to her suffering silhouette: a woman abandoned by her cheating husband and ensnared by the gendered double standards of domesticity. I attached myself to the mantra of her autobiographical avatar Esther Greenwood, who lies in a bathtub in “The Bell Jar,” bleeding during a rehearsal of a suicide attempt, and later stands at a funeral listening “to the old brag of my heart. I am, I am, I am.” Her attachment to pain — her own and others’ — was also a declaration of identity. I wanted to get it tattooed on my arm.
Whenever I listened to my favorite female singers, it was easier for me to sing along to their sad lyrics than their angry ones. It was easier to play Ani DiFranco on repeat, crooning about heartbreak — “Did I ever tell you how I stopped eating/when you stopped calling me?” — than it was to hear her fury, and her irritation at the ones who stayed sad and quiet in her shadow: “Some chick says/Thank you for saying all the things I never do/I say, you know/The thanks I get is to take all the [expletive] for you.”
I kept returning to the early novels of Jean Rhys, whose wounded heroines flopped around dingy rented rooms in various European capitals, seeking solace from their heartbreak, staining cheap comforters with their wine. Sasha, the heroine of “Good Morning, Midnight” — the most famous of these early picaresques of pain — resolves to drink herself to death and manages, mainly, to cry her way across Paris. She cries at cafes, at bars, in her lousy hotel room. She cries at work. She cries in a fitting room. She cries on the street. She cries near the Seine. The closing scene of the novel is a scene of terrifying passivity: She lets a wraithlike man into her bed because she can’t summon the energy to stop him, as if she has finally lost touch with her willpower entirely. In life, Rhys was infamous for her sadness, what one friend called “her gramophone-needle-stuck-in-a-groove thing of going over and over miseries of one sort and another.” Even her biographer called her one of the greatest self-pity artists in the history of English fiction.
It took me years to understand how deeply I had misunderstood these women. I’d missed the rage that fueled Plath’s poetry like a ferocious gasoline, lifting her speakers (sometimes literally) into flight: “Now she is flying/More terrible than she ever was, red/Scar in the sky, red comet/Over the engine that killed her — the mausoleum, the wax house.” The speaker becomes a scar — this irrefutable evidence of her own pain — but this scar, in turn, becomes a comet: terrible and determined, soaring triumphant over the instruments of her own supposed destruction. I’d always been preoccupied with the pained disintegration of Plath’s speakers, but once I started looking, I saw the comet trails of their angry resurrections everywhere, delivering their unapologetic fantasies of retribution: “Out of the ash/I rise with my red hair/And I eat men like air.”
I’d loved Rhys for nearly a decade before I read her final novel, “Wide Sargasso Sea,” a reimagining of Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre” whose whole plot leads inexorably toward an act of destructive anger: The mad first wife of Mr. Rochester burns down the English country manor where she has been imprisoned in the attic for years. In this late masterpiece, the heroines of Rhys’s early novels — heartbroken, drunk, caught in complicated choreographies of passivity — are replaced by an angry woman with a torch, ready to use the master’s tools to destroy his house.
It wasn’t that these authors were writing exclusively about female anger rather than female sorrow; their writing holds both states of feeling. “Wide Sargasso Sea” excavates the deep veins of sadness running beneath an otherwise opaque act of angry destruction, and Plath’s poems are invested in articulating the complicated affective braids of bitterness, irony, anger, pride and sorrow that others often misread as monolithic sadness. “They explain people like that by saying that their minds are in watertight compartments, but it never seemed so to me,” Rhys herself once wrote. “It’s all washing about, like the bilge in the hold of a ship.”
It has always been easier to shunt female sadness and female anger into the “watertight compartments” of opposing archetypes, rather than acknowledging the ways they run together in the cargo hold of every female psyche. Near the end of the new biopic “I, Tonya,” Tonya Harding’s character explains: “America, they want someone to love, but they want someone to hate.” The timing of the film’s release, in late 2017, seemed cosmically apt. It resurrected a definitional prototype of female anger — at least for many women like me, who came of age during the 1990s — at the precise moment that so many women were starting to get publicly, explicitly, unapologetically angry.
Harding was an object of fascination not just because of the soap opera she dangled before the public gaze — supposedly conspiring with her ex-husband and an associate to plan an attack on her rival figure skater Nancy Kerrigan — but also because she and Kerrigan provided a yin and yang of primal female archetypes. As a vision of anger — uncouth and unrestrained, the woman everyone loved to hate, exploding at the judges when they didn’t give her the scores she felt she deserved — Harding was the perfect foil for the elegant suffering of Kerrigan, sobbing in her lacy white leotard. Together they were an impossible duo to turn away from: the sad girl and the mad girl. Wounded and wicked. Their binary segregated one vision of femininity we adored (rule-abiding, delicate, hurting) from another we despised (trashy, whiny, angry). Harding was strong; she was poor; she was pissed off; and eventually, in the narrative embraced by the public, she turned those feelings into violence. But “I, Tonya” illuminates what so little press coverage at the time paid attention to: the perfect storm of violence that produced Harding’s anger in the first place — her mother’s abuse and her husband’s. Which is to say: No woman’s anger is an island.
When the Harding and Kerrigan controversy swept the media, I was 10 years old. Their story was imprinted onto me as a series of reductive but indelible brush strokes: one woman shouting at the media, another woman weeping just beyond the ice rink. But after watching “I, Tonya” and realizing how much these two women had existed to me as ideas, rather than as women, I did what any reasonable person would do: I Googled “Tonya and Nancy” obsessively. I Googled: “Did Tonya ever apologize to Nancy?” I Googled: “Tonya Harding boxing career?” and discovered that it effectively began with her 2002 “Celebrity Boxing” match against Paula Jones — two women paid to perform the absurd caricatures of vengeful femininity the public had projected onto them, the woman who cried harassment versus the woman who bashed kneecaps.
In the documentaries I watched, I found Harding difficult to like. She comes off as a self-deluded liar with a robust victim complex, focused on her own misfortune to the exclusion of anyone else’s. But what does the fact that I found Harding “difficult to like” say about the kind of women I’m comfortable liking? Did I want the plotline in which the woman who has survived her own hard life — abusive mother, abusive husband, enduring poverty — also emerges with a “likable” personality: a plucky spirit, a determined work ethic and a graceful, self-effacing relationship to her own suffering?
The vision of Harding in “I, Tonya” is something close to the opposite of self-effacing. The film even includes a fantastical re-enactment of the crime, which became popularly known as the “whack heard round the world,” in which Harding stands over Kerrigan’s cowering body, baton raised high above her head, striking her bloody knee until Harding turns back toward the camera — her face defiant and splattered with Kerrigan’s blood. Even though the attack was actually carried out by a hired hit man, this imagined scene distills the version of the story that America became obsessed with, in which one woman’s anger leaves another woman traumatized.
But America’s obsession with these two women wasn’t that simple. There was another story that rose up in opposition. In this shadow story, Harding wasn’t a monster but a victim, an underdog unfairly vilified, and Kerrigan was a crybaby who made too much of her pain. In a 2014 Deadspin essay, “Confessions of a Tonya Harding Apologist,” Lucy Madison wrote: “She represented the fulfillment of an adolescent revenge fantasy — myadolescent revenge fantasy, the one where the girl who doesn’t quite fit in manages to soar over everyone’s [expletive] without giving up a fraction of her prerogative — and I could not have loved her more.” When Kerrigan crouched sobbing on the floor near the training rink, right after the attack (Newsweek described it as “the sound of one dream breaking”), she famously cried out: “Why? Why? Why?” But when Newsweek ran the story on its cover, it printed the quote as: “Why Me?” The single added word turned her shock into keening self-pity.
These two seemingly contradictory versions of Harding and Kerrigan — raging bitch and innocent victim, or bad-girl hero and whiny crybaby — offered the same cutout dolls dressed in different costumes. The entitled weeper was the unacceptable version of a stoic victim; the scrappy underdog was the acceptable version of a raging bitch. At first glance, they seemed like opposite stories, betraying our conflicted collective relationship to female anger — that it’s either heroic or uncontrollably destructive — and our love-hate relationship with victimhood itself: We love a victim to hurt for but grow irritated by one who hurts too much. Both stories, however, insisted upon the same segregation: A woman couldn’t hurt and be hurt at once. She could be either angry or sad. It was easier to outsource those emotions to the bodies of separate women than it was to acknowledge that they reside together in the body of every woman.
Ten years ago in Nicaragua, a man punched me in the face on a dark street. As I sat on a curb afterward — covered in my own blood, holding a cold bottle of beer against my broken nose — a cop asked me for a physical description of the man who had just mugged me. Maybe 20 minutes later, a police vehicle pulled up: a pickup truck outfitted with a barred cage in the back. There was a man in the cage.
“Is this him?” the cop asked. I shook my head, horrified, acutely aware of my own power — realizing, in that moment, that simply saying I was hurtcould take away a stranger’s liberty. I was a white woman, a foreigner volunteering at a local school, and I felt ashamed of my own familiar silhouette: a vulnerable white woman crying danger at anonymous men lurking in the shadows. I felt scared and embarrassed to be scared. I felt embarrassed that everyone was making such a fuss. One thing I did not feel was anger.
That night, my sense of guilt — my shame at being someone deemed worthy of protection, and at the ways that protection might endanger others — effectively blocked my awareness of my own anger. It was as if my privilege outweighed my vulnerability, and that meant I wasn’t entitled to any anger at all. But if I struggled to feel entitled to anger that night in Nicaragua, I have since come to realize that the real entitlement has never been anger; it has always been its absence. The aversion to anger I had understood in terms of temperament or intention was, in all honesty, also a luxury. When the black feminist writer and activist Audre Lorde described her anger as a lifelong response to systemic racism, she insisted upon it as a product of the larger social landscape rather than private emotional ecology: “I have lived with that anger, on that anger, beneath that anger, on top of that anger ... for most of my life.”
After the Uma Thurman clip went viral, the Trinidadian journalist Stacy-Marie Ishmael tweeted: “*interesting* which kinds of women are praised for public anger. I’ve spent my whole career reassuring people this is just my face.” Michelle Obama was dogged by the label of “angry black woman” for the duration of her husband’s time in office. Scientific research has suggested that the experience of racism leads African-Americans to suffer from higher blood pressure than white Americans and has hypothesized that this disparity arises from the fact that they accordingly experience more anger and are simultaneously expected to suppress it. The tennis superstar Serena Williams was fined over $80,000 for an angry outburst against a lineswoman at the U.S. Open in 2009: “I swear to God, I’ll [expletive] take this ball and shove it down your [expletive] throat.” Gretchen Carlson, a Fox anchor at the time, called another one of Williams’s angry outbursts in 2011 a symbol of “what’s wrong with our society today.” Carlson, of course, has since come to embody a certain brand of female empowerment: One of the leading voices accusing the late Fox News chairman Roger Ailes of sexual harassment, she recently published a book called “Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back.” But the portrait on its cover — of a fair-skinned, blond-haired woman smiling slightly in a dark turtleneck — reminds us that fierceness has always been more palatable from some women than from others.
What good is anger, anyway? The philosopher Martha Nussbaum invokes Aristotle’s definition of anger as “a response to a significant damage” that “contains within itself a hope for payback” to argue that anger is not only “a stupid way to run one’s life” but also a corrosive public force, predicated on the false belief that payback can redress the wrongdoing that inspired it. She points out that women have often embraced the right to their own anger as a “vindication of equality,” part of a larger project of empowerment, but that its promise as a barometer of equality shouldn’t obscure our vision of its dangers. In this current moment of ascendant female anger, are we taking too much for granted about its value? What if we could make space for both anger and a reckoning with its price?
In her seminal 1981 essay, “The Uses of Anger,” Audre Lorde weighs the value of anger differently than Nussbaum: not in terms of retribution, but in terms of connection and survival. It’s not just a byproduct of systemic evils, she argues, but a catalyst for useful discomfort and clearer dialogue. “I have suckled the wolf’s lip of anger,” she writes, “and I have used it for illumination, laughter, protection, fire in places where there was no light, no food, no sisters, no quarter.” Anger isn’t just a blaze burning structures to the ground; it also casts a glow, generates heat and brings bodies into communion. “Every woman has a well-stocked arsenal of anger potentially useful against those oppressions,” Lorde writes, “which brought that anger into being.”
If you’re stumped on the best way to care for your vagina and how to practice good vaginal health, a quick search on the internet or a trip to your doctor will likely answer all of your questions. However, we’ve got a few basic tips below to help get you started.
As always, make sure you talk to your medical care provider if you have any questions or concerns about your vaginal health. And remember, the tips below may not apply to you - your medical care provider or doctor is the best person to help you come up with a routine for your health.
Underwear
One of the oldest tricks in the book is to make sure you opt for natural fibers, such as cotton. Many other fabrics on the market are made using materials that are not breathable or are hazardous to the environment (such as lengthy bleaching processes and using chemicals to treat the fabric).
Once you have a snazzy pair of underwear, make sure you treat it well. Avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances when washing. Remember - your underwear is the one piece of fabric closest to your genitals. Be mindful about what you’re using on them.
While we’re on the subject of underwear, it may be a good idea to avoid thongs when dealing with an infection. Some experts go so far as to recommend just avoiding thongs completely. And don’t forget to regularly change your underwear, including changing your underwear after working out. No - flipping your pair inside out to get “one extra use out of them” doesn’t count.
Hygiene
We know we don’t have to tell you, but it’s a good piece of advice to repeat - make sure you’re using good hygiene practices when you shower or just freshen up. What does this mean? For one, as we mentioned above about underwear, the same goes when you’re cleaning your genitals directly - avoid fragrances and harsh chemicals.
Another good piece of advice is to avoid rough cloths and sponges when cleaning. The rough texture could cause irritation, and that’s just no fun for anyone. Instead, some experts recommend just a gentle wash using lukewarm water, and using a gentle cleaning tool if needed. Remember: Your vagina is a self-cleaning machine, so you may want to avoid using anything in it unless recommended by your doctor.
Last, but certainly not least, avoid wearing your menstrual cups, reusable cloth pads, or disposable menstrual products for too long. Keep an eye on the recommendations the manufacturers put in place, and change them often. For example, here at Sckoon we recommend you empty your menstrual cup more frequently on your heavy days, but a maximum of 12 hours can be used. However, for hygiene purposes, we recommend the removal and cleaning of your menstrual cup at least 2 -3 times a day.
Speaking of menstrual health - we highly recommend reusable menstrual products. Tampons and disposable pads have been in the spotlight more times than once for the harsh chemicals used on the cotton (including pesticides). Organic cotton tampons and organic cotton disposable pads luckily have better practices in place, but keep in mind that even organic tampons still carry the risk of TSS. We’ve touched on all the perks of switching to reusable products over disposable products in these blog posts: Why Menstrual Cups Are Better For Your Body Then Tampons and Menstrual Cups VS Tampons: A Comparison.
Want to know more about how menstrual cups affect your health? Visit our FAQ topic here. Find our Safety tips here!
Overall Health
Hygiene and health go hand-in-hand, but there’s a few items we thought we’d call out specifically in the “Health” category.
Number one: Regular exercise and eating healthy. We won’t dig into this one too much as the recommendation for food and regular exercise varies greatly from person to person, but keeping your body healthy inside and out is a great way to make sure your vagina is also benefiting.
Number two: Practice safe sex. This means condoms, urinating after sex, and any other recommendations your doctor may provide you.
Number three: Mental health is just as important as your physical health. You may have heard that stress, anxiety, and depression can all impact you in more ways than just mentally. Make sure you’re taking care of your mind just as much as you’re taking care of your body.
Number four: Get plenty of sleep. Again, the recommendation here changes from person to person, but make sure you’re getting enough sleep for your body, allowing both your mind and body some time to relax and recover from the busy day.
And there you have it. What tips do you have for others on how to care for their vagina? Let us know in the comments below!
]]>Hello! I am a new-intern at Sckoon, Shizuha. Today I will be sharing my 5 must-have items for any trip!
1: Flip Flops
Make sure to pack a pair of flip flops EVERYWHERE you go. They can be used as room slippers, flight slippers, casual sandals, beach sandals, shower sandals and more. I would recommend that you to buy a pair of expendable but cute flip flops to be suitable for any occasion!
2: Laundry Nets for Post-Vacation Indulgence
Bring various sizes of laundry nets and use them instead of packing cubes. Once you go home, all you need to do is to throw them into a washing machine!
3: Easter eggs for beauty sponge
If you love your makeup sponge but always are annoyed your make-up bag gets wet when carrying it, I know your struggle. Wrap your sponge in some tissues to soak up moisture, and use a leftover Easter egg cup as a cute and effective case. You will never need to worry about wetting and ruining your favorite make-up brush.
4: Water Bottle and Dried Fruits
If you love fruit infused water like me, or simply want to spice up your daily hydration, make sure to bring your own water bottle and dried fruits! It's sometimes difficult to get fresh fruits and store them on a trip, so dried fruits are the way to go! Put some dried fruits of your choice into your water bottle, and rest it overnight. Add in ice cubes the next morning and your infused water is ready to go!
5: Sckoon Cup!
Bring your own Sckoon Cups in case of an emergency! Pads and tampons take up a lot of space in your luggage, especially when you are on a mission to pack lightly, but just can't leave behind your favorite top. Whether or not you know your period is coming, squeeze the silicon cup into your suitcase — it literally takes up no space, yet you are guaranteed to be worry free whether you’re chilling on the beach or hiking in the mountains! Check out Sckoon Cups here: https://www.sckoon.com/collections/clothmenstrualpads-menstrual-cup
I am now asking for suggestions on blog topics from you guys! Please comment down below if you have something to share with the community.
I hope you enjoy the rest of summer :)
]]>First things first, you may be wondering what SIZE to get? Menstrual cups can look intimidating - if you don't fold them, they appear a lot wider than a tampon. You may find yourself wondering "THAT goes WHERE????"
Here's the good news - menstrual cups should be made using soft, safe materials that can bend, fold, and move with your body. Practice one of our suggested fold techniques (listed below), and you'll see just how small your Sckooncup can get:
Perfect! Now that we've picked a menstrual cup fold (we recommend starting with one of the first three listed above), we now need to learn how to insert and remove our cup.
Inserting and removing takes time. It's recommended you give your new cup (and yourself) about 3 months for trial and error. It's also recommended you DO NOT try inserting your menstrual cup for the first time as a "dry run." We know you may be tempted, but inserting your cup may be easier on a heavier flow day. For more information on inserting and removing your cup, head to our How To Insert & Remove A Menstrual Cup blog post.
Last, but certainly not least, let's talk about a few of the questions you may have in our FAQ's below.
Ready to buy your first menstrual cup? Download our FREE menstrual cup guide by going to our blog post: Are you considering purchasing a menstrual cup? FREE: The Ultimate Menstrual Cup Buyers Guide!
]]>Yep - summer is here, but it's also the time of year where we become a little less eco-friendly. Plastic water bottles, soda cans, quick and convenient eats when you're on the road - all of these and more just further contribute to the increasing trash problem.
How can we enjoy summer while making eco-friendly and green choices? We have a few helpful tips!
Tip One: Take a closer look at your sunscreen before you slather it on. Many sunscreens are made using harsh chemicals. These chemicals may wash off your skin and in to the water when you're swimming, or they may damage your skin or worse. Make sure you do thorough research before grabbing the cheapest and most convenient bottle.
Tip Two: Cheap and cute sunglasses - are you really paying close attention to what you're putting on your face? That $5 pair of sunglasses may wind up in the trash faster than anything else you use this summer. Often times these inexpensive sunglasses are made using materials that simply won't last the test of time and wind up further cluttering the landfills - and being made of plastic, they may take 100+ years to decompose.
Tip Three: Opt for more eco-friendly beverage containers. We've mentioned above that plastic can take a long long time to decompose - plastic bottles and red solo cups are not immune. Instead of opting for a single use item, opt for something you can reuse the whole summer - mason jars and metal beverage containers are great options.
Tip Four: Don't forget your SckoonCup. Of course we couldn't leave our #1 favorite item off this list - ditch the disposables this summer and bring your SckoonCup! With 8+ hours (maximum 12 hours) of wear time, you'll be able to really enjoy the beach without worry.
Let us know in the comments below - what tip do you have for a greener summer?
]]>PMS - OUCH! That achy, sore, fatigued feeling you get that takes over your entire body and often times makes it so you don't even want to move. I feel ya! My favorite pair of baggy sweatpants and a bowl of PB & Chocolate Ice Cream become my new best friends when PMS strikes. So how can we relieve these symptoms naturally? Read on for some great suggestions!
Minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, may play a role in relieving menstrual pain. Vitamins such as Vitamin D are also considered effective in relieving menstrual pain. Studies show that women who take these supplements may have less pain than those who do not.
One of the quickest ways to give cramps the boot is to grab your hot water bottle! Just fill it up, wrap it in a towel (if needed) and place it on your abdomen. Grab a cup of your favorite warm beverage to add an extra layer of warmth to your innards. If you don’t have a hot water bottle, try a hot bath instead…
Full body warmth from your head to your toes - just what you need if you have an achy body everywhere.
Or full body massages. Often times PMS affects more than just our abdomen, and we may experience soreness everywhere (such as your lower back). Massages are a great way to help relieve this discomfort.
Having sex with orgasm relieves the pain. The movements of the muscles keep the blood away from the parts in pain, relieving pain.
Drinking alcohol may make PMS worse - it may also make the symptoms last longer. No one wants that, right??
Exercise, including Yoga, is great for natural relief of cramps and many other symptoms associated with PMS. Here's a few poses you can try (find the full article where we talk about even more poses you can try here)!
Your diet can cause more harm that good when it comes to PMS. You may want to watch your salt intake. Salt may cause your body to bloat and retain water. Also watch out for foods that can cause an inflammatory effect, for example sugar, dairy, and trans fat.
Not getting enough sleep during your period? This could make symptoms worse. Lack of sleep may cause anxiety, body soreness, and other problems that we'd rather avoid, so make sure you're getting plenty of rest and relaxation!
Many women report significantly lighter and easier periods once ditching the disposables and switching to reusable menstrual products, such as menstrual cups and cloth pads.
]]>Menstrual cups are a HUGE blessing when it comes to reusable products. They can be used for an entire cycle simply by emptying it and cleaning periodically (no more than 12 hours between emptying, recommended every 8 hours). A thorough cleaning once your cycle ends and proper storage help keep these babies in good condition for a couple years!
Which brings a very important question to mind - how can you tell when it's time to replace old faithful? Well, I'm afraid this answer isn't as cut-and-dry as other FAQs we've done, but we have a few helpful tips to give you a better understanding of when it's time to retire your cup companion.
Let's Look At The Overall Condition Of Your Cup First...
The way your cup looks is a BIG indicator on whether it's time to replace it. Take a good look at your cup, then answer the following:
That last question is very important. If upon close inspection you're nervous about using your cup because the condition is questionable, use your best judgement on whether it's time to give your cup the boot.
If there is any change in the material of your SckoonCup (for example if it splits or becomes sticky), or there is any change in the shape of your SckoonCup, then it will need replacing.
When inspecting, make sure you look at both the inside and outside of the cup - thoroughly check the grip rings as well. It's important to note that while the stem of your cup can be removed, we want to make sure there's no holes, tears, or cracks left behind (for example, if the stem ripped off from rough use, that could impact the material of the base of the cup).
We want to also thoroughly check the suction holes. These should be clear of debris and still in good, round shape. If there's tears here or extra holes added, this could impact the functionality of your cup. Keeping the suction holes clean is very important as they create the seal that secures your cup in place. If the holes need extra cleaning, we suggest that you fill the cup with warm water, use the palm of your hand to seal it, and gently squeeze the cup so water goes through the holes. You can use a soft toothbrush but avoid using a metal pin or anything with a very sharp tip.
Some Visible Signs Of Use Are OK, However Some Are Not...
With extended use, your cup may acquire stains or slight discoloration over time. These should not affect the usefulness of your cup.
To remove natural staining, soak your SckoonCup in diluted sterilizing fluid (used for sterilizing baby equipment and available at pharmacies), follow the manufacturer’s dilution guidelines, and soak for the minimum recommended time, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
However, some signs of use you should be more wary of. For example, if your cup has not been properly cleaned between each use, residue could be left behind. Always thoroughly check your cup before using and make sure to clean it properly to reduce the risk of debris, cleaner, etc. being left behind.
In addition, if the material is looking discolored (and not stained), thinner, or misshaped (such as melted), the cup should not be used and should be replaced.
How Can I Prolong The Life Of My Cup...?
First and foremost, be careful with your menstrual cup. Rough handling (such as yanking it out by the stem) may shorten the lifespan of your cup. When cleaning, be careful with any tools you may use - steer clear of any sharp tools for cleaning. Keep a close eye on your cup when sterilizing it, and do not let your cup touch the sides or bottom of a hot pan (or touch any hot surface really). And lastly, be sure to keep your cup in it's organic cloth bag when not in use!
Have a tip we missed? Let us know in the comments below or join us on Facebook/Instagram!
]]>Are you considering purchasing a menstrual cup? If you are thinking of purchasing your first menstrual cup, congratulations! We know the road can be intimidating and scary - there's TONS of options out there, and TONS you need to be aware of when shopping. We know you might have a bunch of questions running through your mind, including:
Fear not! We have developed a comprehensive guide to help you figure out the best menstrual cup for you! We go over many of these questions and more in our FREE menstrual cup guide.
Ready to take the next step? Download the full FREE Menstrual Cup Guide here!
You are stepping into a whole new world that is healthier for your body and the planet. If you are an experienced user, you might be looking for a cup that suits you better without wasting your resources.
We are introducing 13 essential points for you to be aware of before investing your money and time into a new menstrual cup. Although menstrual cups are a revolutionary tool that gives you ultimate comfort and freedom, every person is built differently and not every cup is for everyone! Want to learn more about the 13 essential points? Snag our FREE Menstrual Cup Guide here!
We are all built different; therefore not every cup is made for everyone’s anatomy. The more familiar you are with your own anatomy the easier it will be to find the right menstrual cup for your body.
There are many things you should keep in mind when considering a menstrual cup and your body, including the location of your cervix, how heavy your flow is, and if you have given birth vaginally, plus more! We go over all these factors in our menstrual cup guide. Want to learn more? Grab your copy of our FREE Menstrual Cup Guide here!
Every person is constructed differently, that’s the beauty of life! What works for some people may not work for others, especially regarding menstrual cups. The only way to find out what cups works best for you is to try. Do as much research as you can about all the different menstrual cups available to you. The better you understand your anatomy, the easier it will be to use a menstrual cup.
If you have any questions or concerns about your own menstrual cup contact the company and/or contact your physician, healthcare provider, Gyno/ OBGYN, or ND. If you have any questions or concerns about your anatomy please contact your physician and/or healthcare provider.
Have you downloaded our FREE menstrual cup guide yet? What are your waiting for!
Download the full FREE Menstrual Cup Guide here!
Another year has passed and you may have started jotting down your resolutions. Looking to reduce your waste in the new year? Here's a few tips to help get you started!
1. Grab Your Reusable Bags! Reusable bags come in more sizes than just a reusable grocery bag. There's also bags for snacking, bags for bulk items, bags for produce, and more!
2. Incorporate Other Reusable Items: Bags aren't the only item that can replace the waste in your life. There's also tons of options out there for reusable "unpaper' towels, cloth napkins, cloth facial rounds, and even reusable "sponges"!
3. Try Mason Jars! Did you know mason jars have a HUGE range of possibilities beyond just using for food? That old pickle jar makes a great drinking cup, holding for your cloth napkins or cloth facial rounds, storage for grains, and more! There's also tons of creative ideas out there for reusing cans as well!
4. Incorporate Composting! There's no better time to try your hand at composting than now. When shopping, look for products that are not wrapped in plastic or are easily compostable (such as banana skins).
5. Simplify Your Menstrual Hygiene Needs: Last, but certainly not least, join us as we say Goodbye to Tampons and uncomfortable disposable pads! Many users are now making the switch to cloth pads and menstrual cups for their periods - and you can make the switch, too!
Let us know! What tips do you have for reducing your waste? Join the discussion in the comments below, or find us on Facebook!
Don’t forget to visit us online at SckoonCup.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
]]>Are you considering using organic cloth menstrual pads? Not only are cloth menstrual pads better for your body, they're better for our environment too.
Have you looked at the landfills lately? Every time I see one, it reminds me of an abscess that is getting bigger and bigger ready to explode. Not a pretty thought is it?
Many of us are switching over to cloth menstrual pads and menstrual cups for this exact reason - to reduce additional waste being added to landfills. It's been reported that a a menstruating person will use over THOUSANDS of disposable menstrual pads and tampons in a lifetime. Imagine that for each person menstruating in the USA and you can quickly see how this impacts our environment.
If you are considering switching for your health and the health of our environment, read on and learn everything you need to know about using reusable cloth menstrual pads.
You may think it's cross to use a reusable menstrual product. After all we are used to changing our pad and putting the used one in a plastic wrapper and disposing it in the trash can. Out of sight, out of mind - right?
The bad news is that your disposable menstrual pad or tampon is headed to a landfill, where it will sit for years and years.
When you use an organic cloth menstrual pad, you wear it the same way as a disposable. What's different is that you place the cloth pad into a wet bag that will contain it until you reach home and are able rinse it out and launder.
Is it a big deal to carry it around if you need to change your pad? No. It's secure and safe in a sealed wet bag and you are not adding more plastic to our environment.
Organic cloth menstrual pads are healthier for your body and the environment for many reasons including:
If you have any questions, please contact SckoonCup’s Customer Service. If you have questions regarding menstrual cycles or your anatomy, please schedule an appointment with your health care provider.
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When many are asked if they know what the tampons they are wearing have been manufactured from, some guess cotton but most folks simply do not know. Unfortunately, the majority of tampons are NOT made of only cotton or organic material. They are made from viscose, rayon, etc. (These ingredients were taken directly off a box of tampons in the grocery store.)
When you do occasionally find a tampon made from cotton, they are often bleached. Cotton in its natural source, however, is not the same pristine white. This may be a marketing tool that makes one think the tampons are “hygienic” or “clean” because they are white. In reality, bleaching adds another layer of chemicals that are inserted into the vagina. When you think of inserting chemicals into the body, you have a whole other visual don’t you?
When you add in the plastic applicator for “ease” in inserting the tampon, the polyester cord used to remove the tampon plus a host of other conditions, what you actually have is a chemical storm in your body.
Finished using the tampon? You’re told to simply toss it away like so much other plastic in our landfills. In addition, the risk of toxic shock syndrome dramatically increases with the use of tampons. Are you wondering if there is a better way yet?
There is. Menstrual cups have actually been around for quite some time but are just now beginning to gain momentum in the marketplace. Many have already made the switch not only for personal reason but environmental reasons too. M any menstrual cups are manufactured of medical grade silicone or other safe materials. When inserted into the vagina, the cup catches the blood and holds it securely until removed and emptied. It can actually stay safely in place for up to 12 hours (depending on your flow).
What many like the most about menstrual cups is how easy they are to use. After washing your hands, simply fold and insert into the vagina. When in position, release and the menstrual cup will pop into place. When it is time to remove the menstrual cup, again wash your hands first, then pinch the bottom of the cup which will release the suction and allow you to gently remove and empty the contents into the toilet.
Menstrual hygiene has certainly come a long way from the days of using old rags as pads. It’s important though that we make smart decisions regarding our bodies including how we handle our menstrual flow. The most important point regarding menstrual cups is that you are able to use them over and over. This not only saves you money, it saves the environment and helps you avoid introducing chemicals into your body.
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It is normal to feel cautious whenever we try something new – especially if it’s something we are using in our bodies. Menstrual cups are very safe to use as it is worn inside the vagina during menstruation. Unlike tampons and pads which absorb your menstrual fluids, a menstrual cup collects the fluid.
What are the three types of materials that menstrual cups are manufactured of?
What is the difference between disposable menstrual cups and reusable menstrual cups?
Disposable cups:
Reusable cups:
Shapes, designs and molding of menstrual cups:
Your cervix moves up and down during your menstrual cycle. The length you choose for your menstrual cup is very important as you want to ensure it fits properly but not be too long to cause discomfort. SckoonCup’s menstrual cup is designed for the movement of your cervix and is suitable for cervixes that are high or low in the vagina.
When choosing the diameter of your menstrual cup, you will need to be sure you do not select a cup that is too large in diameter which may cause discomfort, cramping or even push against your bladder. If your cup is too small it may leak, not suction properly and may be uncomfortable. Ask yourself these questions:
The design of the stem is very important as you will use it to take your menstrual cup out of your vagina. You DO NOT want to tug or pull too hard on the stem as that will actually cause the menstrual cup to increase the suction. Use the stem to guide your fingers to the base of the menstrual cup. Pinch the bottom of the cup between your fingers to release the suction and slowly pull out. Empty the fluid into the toilet.
The suction holes of the menstrual cup help to release the suction of the cup. Check where the holes are placed as some holes are in the middle of the menstrual cup which limits the capacity of the cup. If the fluid goes above the holes, you will experience leaking. Some manufacturers punch the holes in the cup after it is manufactured. Unfortunately this may cause the holes to clog. SckoonCup has designed its menstrual cups holes directly into the mold so there is no need to punch the holes and you will not need to worry about clogging.
Firm or soft? Some menstrual cups are firmer than others. In general, the firmer the menstrual cup, the easier it is to open. But not always. A softer cup that is well designed can easily open. The key is balance between the inner and outer curves, thickness of the cup wall and the angles from the bottom to the top of the menstrual cup. When the cup is designed with this balance a softer cup may provide both comfort and easy to open functionality. SckoonCup researched the best design in the correct balance for three years to create the best menstrual cup.
Factors to consider when determining in a firm or soft cup is best for you. If you have not been sexually active yet, have a narrow vaginal canal, recently started menstruating you may find that softer cups won’t “pop” open after inserting into your vagina. On the other hand, firm menstrual cups may irritate the vagina and cause cramping in some people. And yes, size does matter. You want your menstrual cup to fit you properly. Manufacturers follow these common guidelines:
What to do before using your menstrual cup:
Remember, we are all unique and not two people are the same. What works for some people may not work for others. If you have any questions, please contact SckoonCup’s Customer Service. If you have questions regarding menstrual cycles or your anatomy, please schedule an appointment with your health care provide.
]]>Have you been considering trying a menstrual cup but just not sure how it would feel? That’s perfectly understandable. Most of us are a bit hesitant when it comes to trying something new.
Menstrual cups are the preferred method for that time of the month for many of us and the reasons vary from being environmentally friendly to the security of knowing you won’t have an accident. But what does it FEEL like? Great question!
SckoonCup is made using medical grade silicone, and feels soft yet pliable. Unlike a tampon that absorbs blood and other fluids, a menstrual cup holds the menstrual flow until you are ready to empty. (No more pulling out a dry tampon that has absorbed your natural lubrication - ouch!)
You may be thinking that a menstrual cup appears to be larger than a tampon but once it is in place, it is usually undetectable and molds to your body (plus, a menstrual cup is similar in size to a full tampon). There are grooves to hold while inserting and a little tail (the stem) helps guide your fingers to the base of the cup for easy removal. Simply press the cup together while inserting and “let go” when you have placed it inside your vagina where it needs to be - the cup will form a "seal" to capture the menstrual flow.
You may be used to changing your tampon or maxi pad every three to four hours – more often on heavier flow days. When you use a menstrual cup, you may notice that you do not need to empty it as often, and you may find you can wear it comfortably all day!
You can swim, shower, and bathe while wearing a menstrual cup. Even better? There are no embarrassing odors when wearing a menstrual cup leaving you feeling clean and secure at all times!
So go ahead – give a menstrual cup a try. Like most folks that have tried it, you may find that you too prefer it over tampons and maxi pads.
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Menstrual cups are definitely shining in the spotlight these days. Menstrual cups have been around for years but now they’re being used more than ever – and for good reason too. Menstrual cups are crafted of safe materials and easy to use. Plus they may be used over and over for several years which makes them much more ecofriendly and cost effective than tampons or disposable pads.
So why the sudden love for menstrual cups? Freedom and that freedom means you can be more Zen in your day to day life during “that” time of the month.
What freedom you might be asking? Think about it. Freedom from having to spend money every month purchasing a product that is really not all that healthy for us to use anyway. Freedom to not have to change your tampon every few hours. Freedom from having to wear a tampon AND a maxi pad on heavy days. Freedom from the odor you often get when you’re on your period. Freedom to swim, run, jump, hike and more without having to worry about leaks!
It’s easy to carry your menstrual cup with you so you’re prepared when your period arrives. It’s light and stores easily in your purse, tote bag and even in the console of your car.
You may actually be surprised at the amount of liquid your menstrual cup holds the first time you use one. This allows you to leave it in place far longer than you could safely do with a tampon. Depending on your flow, you can wear your menstrual cup for 8+ hours (max 12 hours)!
When you first begin using a menstrual cup you may feel the need to empty it during the day. Simply empty into the toilet and rinse then reinsert. You may also clean it with a soap approved for menstrual cup use. When you have finished your period, clean your menstrual cup and boil for five to 10 minutes. Set a timer but be sure to also stay with the boiling water for safety reasons and to ensure the water doesn’t boil out and the cup doesn't touch the sides or bottom of the pan.
Storing your menstrual cup is also easy. When you purchase a SckoonCup, we provide you with an organic cotton bag. After you have cleaned and boiled your menstrual cup, dry and store it in the cotton bag for safe keeping.
Enjoy your newfound monthly Zen while on your cycle!
Have you seen our new Zen purple SckoonCup? You can find it here!
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We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Thinking of buying a menstrual cup? Before you buy one, there are a few things to consider so that your menstrual cup choice is a safe one and works for you.
There are numerous benefits to using a menstrual cup including:
With the many benefits of menstrual cups, how do you select the best one for you? Safety should definitely be a consideration when you make your choice.
What material should you look for when selecting a menstrual cup?
Menstrual cups are generally made from three materials. These materials are silicon, natural gum rubber and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Silicon menstrual cups are made from medical grade silicon which means it is higher quality. Many people are actually allergic to latex. Natural gum rubber has been known to trigger latex allergies which is another good reason to look at a silicon menstrual cup.
Should you choose a menstrual cup with a stem?
Another thing to check for when choosing your menstrual cup is to see if it has a stem. The stem is used to assist in inserting and removing the menstrual cup from your vagina. The stem may allow new users a level of comfort knowing they can easily use the stem as a guide to the base of the cup for easier removal. Be careful not to tug on the stem. If you find that you don’t need the stem but you like everything else about the menstrual cup you have selected, you may be able to clip off the stem but do so carefully so you don’t damage the cup.
Should you choose a firmer menstrual cup?
It depends on how comfortable you find the cup. A firmer cup may press tighter against your vaginal wall for a tighter seal.
Does color matter when it comes to the safety of your menstrual cup?
You may not think that color would matter but it actually is a part of the equation. The color will not affect the safety of the menstrual cup but blood does stain most things including clear cups. Stains will not be as noticeable in a color menstrual cup.
FDA Clearance
And finally the most important question you should ask when purchasing a menstrual cup? Does it have FDA clearance? Sales of menstrual cups are strictly regulated by the FDA. However, there have been reports of menstrual cups that have been sold without FDA clearance. It’s important that you keep in mind that this menstrual cup is going to be sitting in your vagina month after month for many years. Make sure your choice for a menstrual cup is cleared and registered by the FDA.
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When I first made the switch to cloth pads it was enlightening. When I embraced my first menstrual cup I was forever changed. You’ve likely heard many of the benefits of switching to menstrual cups, including less waste, save money, and no harmful chemicals. Here’s five (unexpected) benefits of switching to menstrual cups:
You can now quote the ingredient list in tampons and disposable menstrual pads. You know exactly how much blood to expect each month. You’ve even mastered the technique of inserting your menstrual cup, and have dozens of tips to share (sometimes without even being asked). You’ve officially become the go-to person for your friends when they have a question regarding their menstrual cup. You know all the best methods for removing stains, smells, and whatever else comes along with having a period. Feels good, doesn’t it?
The idea of getting near menstrual blood no longer grosses you out or makes you queasy, in fact it’s become a stepping stone to properly inserting your menstrual cup – and you’re OK with that. There’s something very intimate and wonderful about becoming so in tune with your body.
Once you’ve become an expert in menstrual care, you want to spread the news to everyone! You become an advocate for menstrual cups and cloth pads, quoting the benefits of their use to anyone who will listen. You may even have a speech memorized for when people try to dispute the benefits or find the products gross. “Sticking cotton riddled with harmful chemicals into your body isn’t gross, but safe medical grade silicone is? Let’s discuss this further…”
Entering the reusable menstrual care world can be scary, but one quick internet search brings out a whole new world you never knew existed. A world that’s very welcoming and loving. By switching to reusable menstrual products you are welcomed into a new community full of people you can connect with.
When someone says to you “Sorry – that was TMI,” you just laugh. Nothing is off limits anymore when it comes to menstrual care. You may even find yourself starting conversations about your menstrual cup with your new found community, discussing every little detail. Conversations that may have made you nauseous before no longer phase you.
What unexpected benefit did you gain when you made the switch to menstrual cups or cloth pads? Let us know in the comments below or join the discussion on Facebook!
Don’t forget to visit us online at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
]]>New to menstrual cups and not sure how to go about cleaning them? A cup full of blood can be difficult to address when it's time to clean it. Here's a quick guide to help get you started - make sure you also check out our video at the end to see how it's done!
Cleaning Your Menstrual Cups
Before first use and in between every cycle, you want to make sure you give your cup a thorough cleaning. The easiest way to do so is by boiling it!
The recommended time for boiling is between 5-10 minutes (or 5-7 minutes). Make sure the water has come to a complete boil before inserting your menstrual cups.
Use Caution! Water, steam, and surface will be hot! The surface of your stove will be hot as well as the pot. Keep menstrual cups clear from the burner to avoid any damage to the silicone. Also, keep hands away from the burner as well as the pan/pot.
Tip! Use a tool to insert your menstrual cup to help keep fingers away from the hot water and steam.
Allow your cup to boil for the full recommended time, and keep an eye on it. Do not let your cup touch the bottom or sides of the pot.
Once your cup has been fully sanitized, carefully remove. Allow your cup to completely cool before touching it as it will be hot. Once fully dry, place your cup back into it's pouch to keep it away from debris.
Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Are you a vegetarian living with meat eaters? Want to go vegetarian but have roommates? Or perhaps you’re under 18 and still going to school? Switching to a vegetarian lifestyle can be tricky when you’re living with others, especially if someone else buys the groceries. Here’s 6 tips to help you navigate the difficulties of living with others while becoming vegetarian:
Let Roommates Know.
First things first, let roommates know of your diet changes. Fortunately, a vegetarian diet is more widely accepted today, and your roommates (or parents) may surprise you – they may also be interested in making the switch to a more plant based diet.
Talk It Out.
There’s likely to be a ton of questions, be ready. The question I receive the MOST is “Where do you get your protein?” Be patient – have your resources ready. There’s a ton of resources available, including VegSource and PETA.
Still Living With Parents?
I’ve been there! When I was 13 I made the decision to become a vegetarian – my family is big fan of steak and potatoes, so this decision was greeted with concern and even flat out “No” at one point. Fortunately, every meal we ate involved side items that were vegetarian friendly. Over time (while being consistent) my parents became more open to the idea and we’re very accommodating of my choice. Don’t be afraid to discuss meal ideas with your parents.
Try New Recipes
If you tend to go grocery shopping with your roommates frequently, this is a great opportunity to discuss options when shopping and trying new recipes. There’s TONS of delicious recipes on the Vegetarian Times website.
Cook For Others
Still receiving concerns and questions from others? Try cooking for them! Once you’ve explored recipes on your own, take your favorite one with you to a potluck or surprise your family with a delicious dinner.
Eat More Than Just Salads
Eating salads is easy – almost anywhere you go has them readily available. If you’re at a restaurant, don’t be afraid to ask questions about what is in the food. You may be surprised by how many options are now available at restaurants for vegetarians.
Want even more tips? Head to this post!
Let us know: What tips do you have for someone interested in becoming vegetarian but living with others? Tell us in the comments below or join the discussion on Facebook!
Shop now at SckoonCup.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
Having a hard time figuring out which menstrual cup is right for you?
Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Since going vegan over a year ago there have been tons of foods I missed (cheese and chocolate being biggies!). Fortunately, we have this thing called the Internet to help us out! Over the past year I have stumbled onto TONS of vegan recipes, but I have to say, the following five are definitely my all time favorites for comfort food!
Vegan Mac 'n Cheese - The Minimalist Baker really hits the nail on the head with this one. The sauce is even a tiny bit stringy, just like real cheese. When I first stumbled on this recipe I was amazed!
Recommendation: I always add a touch of Onion Powder to mine - it really takes it over the edge. Plus broccoli. YUM!
Vegan Buffalo Wings - For the longest time, every year for my birthday I would request Chicken Wings as my birthday dinner. When I made the decision to go vegetarian 5 years ago (later vegan, a year ago) the one thing I found myself missing the most was chicken wings. Until I found these!
Recommendation: I like to mix BBQ sauce in with the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy vegan wing!
Vegan Chik'n Dumplings - A southern staple, chicken and dumplings is one of the ULTIMATE comfort foods. Chicken and Dumplings was always my go-to whenever feeling crummy (even over Chicken Noodle Soup!). I now have a new go-to with this recipe!
Recommendation: Soy Curls make an AWESOME chicken substitute.
Vegan Twix - Chocolate is one of the best pick-me-ups out there, but so many are made with milk or animal by-products. Sure, there's vegan convenience candy bars out there, but nothing tastes better than homemade!
Recommendation: This recipe takes a long time to get the caramel to just the right consistency. Good music on in the background is a must.
Vegan Vanilla Cashew Shake - Last, but certainly not least, on our recipe roundup: Ice cream! Grab some vegan twix (or sweet potato fries) for dipping - this shake is worth it!
Recommendation: Peanut butter, chocolate chips, fresh fruit are all fantastic addons for this shake.
POLL: What is YOUR favorite vegan comfort food dish? Let us know in the comments below!
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Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Sweet?
Opt for fruits if you’re having a sweet craving. Fruits such as bananas, grapes, apples, etc. all offer a good outlet for satisfying sweet cravings. There’s even Cotton Candy Grapes and Ice Cream Bananas to help you satisfy your sweet tooth! Fruit just not cutting it for you? Opt for dark chocolate, naturally sweetened if you really must reach for the candy bar.
Salty?
Try healthy roasted nuts such as cashews, pistachios, almonds, and walnuts that are lightly salted to help satisfy a salty craving while giving your body some healthy fats.
Fried Foods?
Skip the grease and trying baking your dish instead. Baked French Fries are just as good as the deep fried version. You can lightly coat your fries in olive oil and toss in your favorite seasoning to give yourself a tasty, and less fattening treat.
Red Meat?
Check your iron levels with your doctor first if you find you’re craving red meat to an extreme. You may also want to try incorporating foods such as kale, broccoli, spinach, and chickpeas that are high in iron, or opt for healthier cuts of meat if you’re in need.
Carbs?
Are you craving the giant bowl of pasta with butter and cheese? Instead, try opting for healthier carbs such as whole wheat, quinoa, or even corn. Corn is often looked at as a horrible option, but if prepared in a healthy manner, and you opt for non-GMO, it can be quite delicious and filling. If you’re still craving the carbs, opt for foods that are unbleached and still in their natural, colorful, state.
Cheesy?
One of our worst cravings is for the super fattening cheese. Instead, try nutritional yeast or nut “cheeses”, such as Cashew cheese. There are tons of alternatives out there for those trying to cut down on the fat but if you find giving up cheese is out of reach opt for lower fat cheeses, such as mozzarella.
What craving do you have when you’re on your period? Let us know in the comments below!
Want your own SckoonCup? Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health or diet related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>The dreaded yeast infection - we feel ya! It's the WORST! Even scarier? What if you're dealing with yeast infection AND your period at the same time. [cue tears of frustration]
If you are in this situation (we are SO SORRY to hear that!), you may be wondering if it's safe for you to use your SckoonCup. Do menstrual cups worsen a yeast infection? First, it is believed that menstrual cups do not worsen or cause yeast infections. That's a relief, but it’s still better to not wear something internal when dealing with a yeast infection, especially when using medical ointments to help clear up the infection.
Can I apply the yeast infection ointment to my SckoonCup?
We do NOT recommend this as the chemical nature of the ointment may affect the materials of your menstrual cup. It's best to stick with the directions on the box when using any medicines.
Uh oh... I *may* have worn my menstrual cup while dealing with a yeast infection. Now what?
Don't stress! If you have worn your menstrual cup while dealing with a yeast infection (or bacterial infection), sterilize the cup thoroughly before your next use, then put it away for the time being.
What can I use instead of my menstrual cup? I do NOT want to wear tampons!
Cloth pads are our go-to when our SckoonCup is unavailable. Readers - help us out with this one - what do you wear when you're not able to wear a menstrual cup? Shout out in the comments below!
******
Want your own SckoonCup? Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Are reusable menstrual products, such as cloth pads and menstrual cups, really as ecofriendly as they claim to be? There are tons of earth friendly perks to using them, but let's highlight the top three ecofriendly benefits:
Less Waste - You've likely already heard that cloth pads and menstrual cups produce less waste, but let's take this a step further. Sure, you're no longer throwing away your used tampons and pads, but you're also no longer throwing away their wrappers. Those plastic plungers for inserting your tampon and little strips of plastic paper on the wings of pads no longer end up in landfills. Take it even further, and you're also no longer throwing away their packaging and boxes, or the receipt from when you purchased them. Whew! That's a lot less waste!
Less Chemicals - The cotton used to create tampons and pads are often treated with harsh chemicals. These chemicals may leak into the waterways surrounding the factories or into the earth - plus, let's not forget the workers who are continuously exposed to these chemicals. Menstrual cups are often made using medical grade silicone or natural gum rubber.
Reusable Menstrual Products Are.... You Guessed It: Reusable - No more single use items, most reusable menstrual products can be cleaned, sanitized, and reused for years. Plus, menstrual cups have a higher capacity than tampons while cloth pads can frequently be catered to your needs. Tampons and pads may not offer the same amount of flexibility and customization.
Less waste, less chemicals, and can be used over and over again? All sounds like super green perks to us!
Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Looking for more ways to lessen the amount of trash you produce? Look no more! Here are ten items you can ditch to help lessen the amount of waste you toss every year.
10. Disposable Diapers
Replacement? Cloth Diapers
You've probably heard about cloth diapers a time or two before, but did you know there are TONS of options out there? Stop tossing disposable diapers in landfills (which sometimes takes hundreds of years to decompose, if not longer. Some disposable diapers contain plastic pieces) - switch to cloth!
9. Plastic Snack Bags
Replacement? Reusable Snack Bags
Reusable snack baggies are usually made using safe cloth and food safe liners, to help keep your food perfectly portioned.
8. Paper Towels
Replacement? Unpaper Towels
Unpaper towels are a fantastic item - soft, absorbent cloth towels sewn with snaps so they can be rolled up and placed on a paper towel holder. No more throwing paper towels away!
7. Plastic Saran Wrap
Replacement? Beeswax Wrap or Cloth Bowl Wraps
There are tons of cloth bowl wraps available, but one fun replacement for Saran wrap is beeswax wrap! Super sticky and seals in food. Only downside? Beeswax wrap can leave a smell when first using.
6. Plastic Bottles
Replacement? Reusable Water Bottles
We're all ditching the plastic, but one key item to ditch are plastic water bottles. This one you've probably heard before - limiting the amount of bottled water we purchase - but what about skipping the reusable plastic water bottles as well and opting for glass?
5. Garbage Bags
Replacement? Composting Trash Bags
Did you know there are trash bags available that break down in compost? Yup! No more plastic garbage bags sitting in landfills for hundreds of year - once you limit how much waste you're producing, you can take it a step further with a composting trash bag.
4. Plastic Grocery Bags
Replacement? Reusable Bags or a Reusable Basket
This one is pretty common - ditching your plastic grocery bags with cloth reusable bags. Another option is a cloth shopping basket - bring it with you in the store and fill it up!
3. Cleaning Wipes
Replacement? Make Your Own!
There are tons of disposable cleaning wipes available (all in plastic tubs and loaded with harsh chemicals). Instead, you can use towels, cut to size, and create your own cleaning solution. Super easy and limits waste!
2. Face Wipes
Replacement? Cloth Rounds
We mentioned unpaper towels earlier, another item you can use are cloth face rounds! Soft on gentle skin and easy to clean - just toss them in the wash, using safe detergent and avoid harsh chemicals.
1. Of course - Disposable Tampons & Pads!
Replacement? Menstrual Cups & Cloth Pads
You knew we weren't going to leave this one off the list! Menstrual cups and cloth pads not only save you from tossing trash every month, they also save you money!
Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>It's important to note, we always recommend using clean hands when handling your menstrual cup. Always thoroughly wash your cup in between uses. Never use a menstrual cup at the same time as tampons.
Proper cleaning, care, and handling may help to reduce any risk of infection.
]]>With TSS being a constant concern for many, we completely understand if you're worried about any possible risk when it comes to menstrual cups.
It's important to note, we always recommend using clean hands when handling your menstrual cup. Always thoroughly wash your cup in between uses. Never use a menstrual cup at the same time as tampons.
Proper cleaning, care, and handling may help to reduce any risk of infection.
What is the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) with SckoonCup?
SckoonCup has not been associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome (T.S.S), which is linked with bacteria, high absorbency tampons and prolonged use. Please always use safe handling and cleaning practices when using your SckoonCup or any internally worn device.
If you have suffered from T.S.S, it is recommended that you do not use any internal form of sanitary products. Always consult with your medical care provider.
Are menstrual cups associated with an increased risk of bacterial or yeast infections?
Menstrual cups have undergone rigorous reviews for over 30 years, and SckoonCup is a medical device approved by FDA for its safety. There is no evidence that menstrual cups increase the risk of yeast or bacterial infections, but for your own health, we recommend you to read our User Guide carefully and follow the guidelines carefully.
If you are currently experiencing a yeast or bacterial infection, it is generally recommended you do not use an internal menstrual product unless approved by your medical professional.
If you have any health conditions or concerns, we recommend to consult your physician.
Can I use SckoonCup while using vaginally-administered medication to clear up an infection?
If you have a vaginal infection, we recommend you do not use any internally worn hygiene products such as tampons or menstrual cups. Should you have any concerns, we suggest that you check with your physician or dermatologist.
Please avoid putting any medication on your SckoonCup as that may impact the materials of your cup.
Got a question we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
]]>Figuring out when to replace your menstrual cup is mostly based on your own experience with the cup. Many menstrual cup companies recommend you replace your cup every year to two years, while some claim you can safely wear your cup for 5+ years. Unlike some menstrual cups which suggest you replace them after one year, SckoonCup is made of best possible quality medical grade silicone, and will last several years. There is no need to replace it every year.
With that in mind, it's important to note that the FDA recommends replacing your cup every two years.
So how can you tell when it is time to replace your cup? Easy! If there is any change in the material of your SckoonCup (for example if it splits or becomes sticky), or there is any change in the shape of your SckoonCup, then it will need replacing. If your cup is reaching the point where it is no longer comfortable to use, there have been any changes to the material (beyond staining) or feel of the cup - these are all important signs to look out for.
Some users choose to replace their cup more often due to aesthetic reasons, since it is natural to have some staining over time (that’s another reason we use FDA approved colored silicone). Staining does not affect the hygiene or effectiveness of SckoonCup, though. You can prevent discoloring to some extent by always rinsing the cup with cold water before cleaning, and by using a mild, unscented soap.
Fortunately, with proper handling and care, your SckoonCup will last a long time, helping to save you money in the long run as well as keeping those pesky disposable pads and tampons out of landfills. That's a win-win in our book!
Shop now at Sckoon.com! Your period should be a breeze, and with SckoonCup, an internally worn menstrual cup, it will be. Discover a clean, effective alternative to tampons or disposable pads. Made from FDA approved soft medical-grade silicon, it’s safe, reusable, environmentally friendly, and pretty, too!
Join us on Facebook: http://Facebook.com/SckoonCup
Find us on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/SckoonCup
Hit us up on Tumblr: http://SckoonCup.Tumblr.com
We are not medical care professionals – your doctor is your best resource and should be consulted regarding anything health related, including your menstrual health and use of menstrual cups.
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