Can inserting menstrual cups incorrectly lead to kidney injury? Here’s what you should know | Health News

Menstrual cups have been a game changer for women when it comes to a sustainable and inexpensive alternative to sanitary napkins that create unnecessary waste and come with a host of skin problems. However, some are speculating that incorrect usage of these cups can lead to kidney injuries. We asked an expert if that is true.
Dr Renuka Borisa, Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai said that a kidney injury from incorrectly placing a menstrual cup can happen and would hurt quite a bit, but is extremely rare. While menstrual cups are placed in the vaginal canal to collect menstrual fluid, poorly using one may directly affect the urinary system. Why a kidney injury may still pertain comes down to the exact positioning, coupled with infection risks.
“Prolonged pressure of the urethra may, over time, lead to a more severe bladder retention issue. This increased pressure on the kidneys is what could ultimately pose the most damage. If the cup isn’t cleaned properly, an infection is very much possible. I think that leaving it in for too long could result in a UTI and if that isn’t taken care of could further escalate to an even worse condition for the kidneys,” she added.
Story continues below this ad

Although Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is mostly connected with tampons, it can also occur with menstrual cups if they are not used or maintained properly.
Are menstrual cups safe? (Source: Freepik)
Precautions to prevent complications:
Dr Borisa shared a couple tips to keep in mind so as to avoid such problems in the future:
Correct Insertion and Removal: Make sure the menstrual cup is positioned with the stem just inside the entrance of the vagina. Do not insert it too high, and do not tighten it too much, as this could lead to discomfort or pressure on surrounding organs.
Cleanliness: Always sterilise the menstrual cup before and after use boiling it or using unscented soap and warm water. Avoid strong chemicals that can cause an allergic reaction to the vaginal region.Story continues below this ad
Timely Removal: Always refer to the insert that comes with the cup and follow the requirements for how long it can be kept in. Generally speaking, it should be emptied no more than every 12 hour depending on how much blood flow there is.
Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after removing or inserting the menstrual cup in order to minimize changes of introducing bacteria.