Forms vagina

Types of vaginal forms

The forms vagina can be classified into two broad categories. The first category is vaginal walls support products, and the second is products that help users manage their periods.

• Vaginal Walls Support

  These products support the vaginal walls by holding them in place. They come in different shapes and sizes to cater to the diverse needs of users. For instance, some users may prefer a specific shape while others can use a more flexible option. Some of the products that fall under this category are:

  Uterine Prolapse Pessaries: A uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus drops into the vagina due to weak pelvic floor muscles. This condition is common among women, especially the elderly. A uterine prolapse pessary is a device that a medical professional inserts into the vagina to support the uterus and keep it in the proper position. It reduces the symptoms of uterine prolapse, which may include a feeling of fullness in the vagina, lower back pain, difficulty walking, and urinary incontinence.

  Vaginal Dilators: A vaginal dilator is a medical device that can be used to stretch the vagina for various purposes. It is a tube-shaped object available in different sizes. Users insert it into the vagina to help overcome the challenges of narrowing or vaginismus. It is important to note that vaginismus is a condition where the vaginal muscles tighten whenever someone attempts penetration, making sexual intercourse or medical examinations painful or impossible.

  Vaginal Insert: A vaginal insert can be inserted into the vagina for various purposes. It has a stretchy shape that can take the form of the vaginal walls. Some inserts have a strong enough shape to stop the vaginal walls from collapsing inward. Others can be used to perform kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

• Menstrual Cup:

  Unlike sanitary pads or tampons, menstrual cups are reusable cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. They are made from flexible medical-grade silicone, rubber, or plastic. Menstrual cups are environmentally friendly since they are reusable, which helps to reduce waste during the monthly period. Furthermore, they are cost-effective, as users can use the same cup for several years instead of constantly buying pads and tampons. Using menstrual cups can be more comfortable than other period products because they don't feel when properly inserted. In some cases, they can provide up to 12 hours of protection before needing to be emptied and washed. Many brands offer menstrual cups in various sizes, shapes, and firmness levels to suit different anatomy and preferences.

How to choose forms for vagina

• Comfort: Users should consider which form of vaginal support feels the best to them. Different materials and shapes will feel differently inside the body. Trying a few different options may help determine which feels most comfortable to wear.
• Activity Level: If users are highly active during sports or exercise, a silicone menstrual cup or disposable tampon may be better than a pad. These options provide less chance of leakage than pads while swimming, running, or other activities where movement occurs.
• Protection Level: Pads provide the most protection against leaks but also the most visibility underneath clothing due to their bulkiness. Tampons are less visible but may leak if not changed frequently enough. Cups catch blood but may be hard to remove and empty. Consider how much blood is flowing to choose the right product.
• Body shape: Some bodies are shaped in a way that makes wearing pads uncomfortable due to rubbing on the legs. Tampons, cups, and menstrual panties may be better options in these cases.
• Environmental impact: Pads contain plastic and may harm the environment. Tampons also contain plastic applicators that are often thrown away. Cups are reusable and create less waste. Menstrual underwear can be washed and worn again. Consider the environmental effects of disposable products versus reusable options.
• Skin Sensitivity: Some products contain fragrances or chemicals that could irritate sensitive skin. Unscented tampons, chlorine-free pads, or reusable cups may be better for those with allergies or sensitivities.
• Budget: Disposable products like pads, tampons, and panty liners need to be bought every month. Reusable cups and menstrual underwear require only one initial purchase. Consider what fits within a monthly budget over time, not just on one shopping trip.

How to use, install, and product safety

How to use

• Preparation: Wash the hands and vagina with mild soap and water, then empty the bladder and bowels to have a clean start.
• Positioning: Formulas are usually inserted while lying down, sitting on a chair with a slightly open hip, or squatting. These positions help ease insertion.
• Insertion: Gently spread the vaginal lips. Hold the applicator or finger close to the vaginal opening. Gently slide it inside, aiming toward the lower back. For applicators, push the plunger in once inserted, then carefully remove it.
• Applying: If using a finger, place it inside the vagina and press against the walls to spread the medication. For applicators, remove it carefully after use.
• Withdrawal: Remove the applicator or finger and dispose of the applicator properly. Do not flush it down the toilet.
• Stay still: Stay in a lying-down position for about 15 minutes to allow absorption. Put on a pad or panty liner if leakage is expected.

Installation

• Choosing a method: There are different ways to insert a vaginal form, such as a finger or an applicator. Choose a method that feels comfortable and easy.
• Preparation: Wash the hands and vagina with mild soap and water. Precautions should be taken, such as emptying the bladder and avoiding sexual intercourse.
• Positioning: Vaginal forms are usually inserted while lying down, sitting on a chair with a slightly open hip, or squatting. These positions help ease insertion.
• Insertion: Gently spread the vaginal lips. Hold the applicator or finger close to the vaginal opening. Gently slide it inside, aiming toward the lower back. For applicators, push the plunger in once inserted, then carefully remove it.
• Applying: If using a finger, place it inside the vagina and press against the walls to spread the medication. For applicators, remove it carefully after use.

Product safety

• Consult healthcare provider: Before using a vaginal form, a healthcare provider should be consulted to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual needs and health conditions. Following the healthcare provider's directions and recommendations regarding dosage and frequency is essential.
• Check expiration date: Verify the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use expired products, as they may be less effective and unsafe.
• Hygiene: Hygiene should be practiced by washing the hands and vagina with mild soap and water before insertion. This helps prevent introducing bacteria or germs into the vagina that could cause infection.
• Proper storage: Formulas should be stored properly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight, which could affect their quality and effectiveness. Keep the products out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid certain activities: Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment with vaginal forms, as it may interfere with the product's effectiveness. Additionally, some vaginal products may cause irritation or discomfort to the partner during intercourse.
• Be aware of side effects: Side effects should be monitored, as they may occur with vaginal forms. If any unusual symptoms or worsening of existing symptoms occur, it is essential to contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Functions, features, and design of vaginal forms

Forms, also called vaginal support pessaries, have many features and functions that can help women with specific health needs. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Shapes: Vaginal forms come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Some shapes include rings, cubes, or donuts. Some may be more comfortable for a user depending on their needs and what their doctor recommends. Sizes vary depending on the user's anatomy and how well a vaginal form fits.
• Materials: Vaginal forms may be made from silicone, plastic, or rubber. Silicone is soft and may feel better if a user has discomfort inside the vagina. Silicone may also be better if a user has had vaginal surgery. Silicone is less likely to irritate the skin inside the vagina.
• Support: Vaginal forms can help support the vaginal walls and bladder neck area. This support can help prevent urine leakage when a person coughs, laughs, or exercises, called stress incontinence. Forms can also help relieve pressure or bulging feelings in the vaginal area from pelvic organ prolapse.
• Customization: Vaginal forms come in different sizes, shapes, and materials to find the best fit and comfort level. Working with a doctor's office that specializes in pelvic health can help determine the best choice for a user's situation.
• Doctor supervision: It is important to use vaginal forms under the guidance of a doctor. A doctor can help ensure it is used correctly, maintained properly, and monitored for any changes in a user's condition. Regular check-ups are important to make sure the chosen form still meets a user's needs as their pelvic health changes over time.
• Removal and cleaning: When not in use, vaginal forms should be stored in the case provided by the manufacturer. The storage container may have a lid that closes so dust or germs from the outside do not get inside. It's important to clean the vaginal form before and after each use. Washing it with mild soap and water is important. Some may allow cleaning with a disinfectant wipe. The form should be thoroughly rinsed so no soap remains, then dried completely before being stored away.

Q&A

Q1: Is the menstrual cup safe to be worn during intercourse?

A1: The menstrual cup is placed in the vagina to collect menstrual blood, while a vaginal cup is placed in the vagina to catch secretions during intercourse. So, having a menstrual cup in place during intercourse isn't safe, as it can get displaced, and the cup won't provide the expected protection against leaks.

Q2: Can I wear my menstrual cup during sports?

A2: Yes, many sports enthusiasts prefer their menstrual cups because they won't budge or cause discomfort while playing. Trying out different sports while wearing a menstrual cup is possible, but if there's a lot of movement, like high-impact aerobics, it may be better to switch to pads or tampons for those classes.

Q3: Will my vagina stretch out if I use a menstrual cup?

A3: Vaginal walls can stretch during activities like sports or using a menstrual cup, but they always return to their original shape. Vaginal walls are designed to stretch and then return to normal, so using a menstrual cup won't change someone's anatomy permanently.

Q4: What if my cup leaks?

A4: Leaks usually mean the cup isn’t positioned correctly or the flow is too heavy for that cup size. To fix leaks, remove the cup and give it a thorough wash before repositioning it lower in the vaginal canal. It's also helpful to check that the stem is fully inserted and not sticking out, as this can prevent a proper seal.

Q5: Can I wear my cup while swimming, showering, or using the bathroom?

A5: Yes, cups can be worn while swimming, showering, or using the bathroom since they don't create a mess. Unlike pads and tampons, cups don't leak fluid, so no need to remove them for those activities.