Look Ma, no leaks!
Written: Apr 07 '00 (Updated Apr 21 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: truly comfortable, no leaks
Cons: difficult to get used to, non-biodegradable
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| bluelucia's Full Review: Instead Feminine Protection Cup |
A couple of months ago, I was perusing the "Feminine Hygiene" aisle of my local drug store when I happened upon an unfamiliar item. As I read the packaging of the Instead Feminine Protection Cup, I knew I had to try it. Ultrafem, the manufacturer of Instead, asserted that their product could be worn for a longer duration than tampons. Plus, the wearer could engage in sex without a lot of mess. The box went on to describe other benefits which included: less leakage, comfort, etc. For once, I eagerly awaited the arrival of my next period.
When that day finally came, my first attempts at using Instead were rather awkward. Truthfully, I was a little intimidated by its size (2.75" in diameter) but as I got used to it, I knew I would never wear tampons (I had been a faithful o.b. girl) again. I think Instead is more comfortable than tampons -- it doesn't suck all of your juices dry. This is because Instead is catching your menstrual flow rather than absorbing it. Consequently, I did not experience any irritation when inserting and removing Instead.
While I haven't worn Instead for twelve hours (the maximum time suggested by the instructions), I did notice that I could wear it longer than a tampon. Nine hours has been my personal record. And best of all, I had no leaks whatsoever! This was the first time I had my period without staining a pair of panties.
I also like the idea that, unlike tampons, Instead does not contain harmful bleach. On the other hand, Instead is not biodegradable. According to the web site, http://www.instead.net, it is manufactured from a "thermoplastic material that has been used for more than twenty years in health care items such as catheters and baby bottle nipples." Although this is a definite drawback if you're concerned about the environment, I have read that some women choose to reuse (don'tcha love my menstrual rhyme?) Instead. Check out http://www.mum.org for more details about this issue.
As for having sex while wearing Instead, I'm sorry to report I was unable to do any experimentation during my last period. Stay tuned for updates!
In conclusion, I would recommend trying Instead. Wearing Instead will require some practice, but I think it has very worthwhile benefits.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: bluelucia
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Member: Beth Teaford
Location: Louisville, KY
Reviews written: 5
Trusted by: 2 members
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