About three years ago, I discoveredU By Kotex Click Compact Tamponsand thought Id never look back.

But now I find myself, along with other menstruating people, struggling in the midst of atampon shortage.

Luckily, TikTok helped me discover menstrual cups.

Saalt Menstrual Cup

Sounds quite terrifying, doesnt it?

It looked incredibly easy easier than putting in a tampon.

So I did it.

Saalt Original Cup

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I read articles, asked friends what they use, watched TikTok videos and they all pointed toward Saalt.

A ton of reviewers said its the perfect cup for beginners.

The company offers menstrual cup options according to sizing, silicone firmness, and even age.

Instantly, I noticed the menstrual cup itself is a lot bigger than I thought it would be.

I immediately questioned how it was going to fit.

Even the little bag they included to store the cup was adorable.

I had to boil my cup in water for about five minutes before inserting it.

I did feel the cup pop into place, but nothing was painful about the whole process.

It took about 15 minutes to adjust to the sensation, but throughout the day, I felt nothing.

But removing the cup was an entirely different experience than inserting it.

It took me about 15 minutes to take it out.

Dont be fooled by the stem I learned the hard way that the stem is not a pull tab.

Once I pinched the bottom of the cup itself, I was able to pull it out.

Not without breaking a sweat but all that matters is that I got it out eventually.

For the rest of the night, I felt some discomfort internally.

All of that pain subsided once I was ready to reinsert it the next morning.

In two sizes, the Lily Cup is on sale for $26.31.

Like the Saalt regular cup, this product is beginner-friendly.

Worth It?

Transitioning period products is definitely a hassle, so I wouldnt force yourself if youre not ready to switch.

Final Verdict

Ive always felt a lot of insecurity around my period.

This was my first period where I felt like I was still myself.

Plus, I felt better knowing I was making a sustainable choice.

Could I survive the rest of my menstrual cycle while still using tampons and pads?

But, those products arent necessarily guaranteed for people with uteruses anymore.