Menstrual containers have recently become a popular choice for women because they are more economical, sustainable and do not pollute the environment. However, experts warn that menstrual cups can cause more serious consequences by causing infection.
Microbiologist from Altınbaş University, Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. İpek Ada Alver, Microbiologist from Altınbaş University, pointed out that microorganisms multiply rapidly when they find suitable environmental conditions and said, “Bacterial vaginosis, bacterial or viral vaginitis and Candida fungal infections are seen in case of inappropriate conditions and changes in the flora of the vaginal environment. It is even possible that it can settle in the fallopian tubes, which are responsible for reproduction, and cause inflammation of the ovaries, which we call oophoritis, and infertility (infertility) problems.”
“Disease-causing bacteria can grow”
Microbiologist Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. İpek Ada Alver explained that the ambient temperature and pH of the vagina and blood create a favorable environment for the growth of many microorganism species. She also stated that microorganisms have the ability to form biofilms, which are defined as strong adhesion mechanisms to inanimate surfaces. Ada Alver said, “Especially when the blood stays in the chamber for a certain period of time, it causes the growth of pathogenic bacteria, that is, pathogenic bacteria that reproduce in an oxygen-free environment, which we call anaerobic, instead of beneficial bacteria of the genus lactobacilli, which are the normal flora of the vaginal environment. Thus, the normal flora of the vagina is disrupted and becomes open to infection.” She pointed out that bacterial vaginosis, bacterial or viral vaginitis and Candida fungal infections can be seen if these inappropriate conditions and flora of the vaginal environment change.
“Do not use repeatedly”
Ada Alver also gave information about health problems that may occur if menstrual cups are used repeatedly. She noted that these pathogenic microorganisms attach to the menstrual cup by forming a biofilm layer and when reused, they pass into the vaginal area and cause symptoms such as discharge, bad odor, itching, burning, interim bleeding, pain in the groin and lower abdomen during urination and after sexual intercourse, nausea, fever. Ada Alver, who also mentioned the possibility of causing inflammation of the ovaries, which we call oophoritis, and infertility (infertility) problems by settling in the fallopian tubes, which have a role in reproduction, said, “At the same time, since menstrual cups are washed and used again, it causes blood and accompanying pathogenic microorganisms to splash around in environments such as sinks and toilets. They can also endanger other individuals in terms of infections transmitted from common areas. With lack of hand hygiene after washing menstrual cups, these microorganisms can re-infect the individual through the oral route. For this reason, menstrual cups are not recommended and the healthiest way is to use daily pads by changing them every 2 hours.”
İHA Haber Kodu: 20241008AW303514