Menstrual cups are a game-changer—comfortable, cost-effective, and way better for the environment. But let’s be real: talking about them can feel awkward, especially in Nigeria, where periods are still a bit of a hush-hush topic.
Maybe your friends think menstrual cups are weird or your mum believes they’re not for “good girls.” Or perhaps you’re just wondering how to start the conversation without getting strange looks.
The good news? Talking about menstrual cups doesn’t have to be awkward. With the right approach, you can get your loved ones on board and maybe even convert a few skeptics! Here’s how to do it.
1. Know Your Why: Why Do You Use a Menstrual Cup?
Before you start telling people about Ivy Cup, get clear on why you love it. Are you using it because:
- It saves money in the long run?
- It’s more comfortable than pads or tampons?
- It lasts up to 12 hours without leaks?
- It’s better for the environment?
When you know your personal reasons, you’ll feel more confident talking about it, and your enthusiasm will be infectious!
2. Start with People Who Are Open-Minded
If you’re nervous, start small. Talk to a close friend who’s already interested in period health. If they react positively, you’ll feel more encouraged to share with others.
If you’re introducing the topic to a parent or older relative, ease them in with:
“Mummy, did you know there’s a reusable period product that’s healthier and saves money?”
That’s a much smoother start than saying, “I’m shoving a silicone cup inside me every month!”
3. Address the Common Myths and Concerns
Expect questions—lots of them. Many people in Nigeria haven’t heard of menstrual cups, so they’ll be curious, skeptical, or even worried. Be ready to calmly bust some myths!
Common Myths & How to Respond:
“Won’t it get lost inside you?”
Nope! The vagina isn’t a black hole. The cup sits securely and can be easily removed.
“Menstrual cups are only for married women.”
No, menstrual cups are for anyone with a period—virgin or not. They don’t affect virginity! Check out our post on virginity and menstrual cups.
“Aren’t they hard to insert?”
Not at all! It just takes a little practice, like learning to use a pad or tampon for the first time. You can direct them to our beginner’s guide to using a menstrual cup for easy step-by-step instructions
“Isn’t washing it messy?”
It’s no messier than changing a pad or tampon. Just empty, rinse, and reuse!
“Aren’t they expensive?”
One Ivy Cup lasts 5–10 years, saving thousands of naira spent on pads and tampons!
The more calmly and confidently you address these concerns, the more likely people are to listen.
4. Use Personal Experience (Storytelling Works!)
People relate to stories, so instead of bombarding them with facts, share your own experience.
Instead of:
“Menstrual cups hold more blood and reduce waste.”
Try:
“I used to change pads every 3 hours because of heavy flow, but with Ivy Cup, I go 10+ hours without leaks!”
Or:
“I was skeptical at first, but after my first cycle with a menstrual cup, I knew I’d never go back!”
A personal story is more relatable and convincing than just listing benefits.
5. Introduce Them to Ivy Cup
Once they’re open to the idea, introduce them to Ivy Cup. You can say:
“If you’re curious, Ivy Cup is a great option. It’s safe, comfortable, and perfect for beginners!”
Or better yet, show them! If you have a clean cup, let them see and feel it so they know it’s soft and flexible, not scary at all.
You can even direct them to our resources so they can read up and decide for themselves.
6. Respect Their Opinion (But Keep Planting the Seed)
Not everyone will jump on the menstrual cup train immediately—and that’s okay. Some people need time to warm up to the idea.
If they say, “I don’t think I can ever use that,” just respond with:
“That’s okay! If you ever get curious, I’m happy to share more.”
Sometimes, all it takes is seeing you use it confidently for them to start considering it.
7. Create a Ripple Effect
Once you’ve successfully introduced one friend or family member to Ivy Cup, they might tell someone else. That’s how we break the period taboo—one conversation at a time.
Before you know it, you’ll have a whole squad of menstrual cup converts, and together, we can make sustainable periods the new normal in Nigeria!
Final Thoughts
Talking about menstrual cups with friends and family doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Lead with confidence, bust the myths, and share your own experience.
And if you’re new to menstrual cups yourself, there’s no better time to start! Ivy Cup is beginner-friendly, safe, and designed for all body types.
Ready to experience leak-free, stress-free periods? Get your Ivy Cup today!