The objective of this research is to evaluate long-term user acceptability of menstrual cups in a student population in South Africa. In order to do this, female students aged 18–24 years attending 10 further education institutions were offered menstrual cups after receiving education and training in their use. The students were followed for up to 12 months to assess menstrual cup acceptability, user experiences and continuation. The results show that 50% of the students reported that inserting the menstrual cup was very easy or quite easy on first use. Of those who did not find it easy, 80% achieve comfort after 2-3 insertions. 5 insertions was the maximum to achieve comfort. More than 90% who had used the cup would continue to use it. The research concludes that the menstrual cup was well accepted among this student population and should be considered as a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable option in menstrual health management initiatives in South Africa.’
Language
English
Authors
Mags Beksinska, Phumla Nkosi, Bongiwe Zulu & Jennifer Smit
Relevant locations
South Africa
Best suited for
Medical expert,Health provider,Curriculum developer,School staff,Product maker
Citation
Beksinska, M., Nkosi, P., Zulu, B., & Smit, J. (2020). Acceptability of the menstrual cup among students in further education institutions in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care, 1-6.
Type of research
Quantitative research,Survey
Year
2020
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