I'm in the same boat hear. For the first time we're going away for 2 nights without kids and I'm worried. I've never used or heard of "instead". But maybe its time I give it a try, or keep it handy just incase. Is it ok to use if I have an IUD? Can DH feel it? Is it hard to insert?
DD1 September 2008
DD2 March 2011
Here's the link to the Instead FAQs page
http://www.softcup.com/faqs
It says to check with your doctor before using it with an IUD to avoid pulling out IUD when removing Instead.
It's easy to insert. Just sometimes messy to remove - but no messier in my experience than a diva cup.
My boyfriend does not feel it during intercourse. He can feel it with his finger during foreplay though. That's when he says - OH! what's that? Every time - as if I might be using my vagina for winter storage?
OH yay, they still make them! Packaging has changed a bit. I remember a light purple box and they just called it "Instead" instead of "Softcup".
I think I'll order a box from somewhere.
ETA: ANd I agree, I find it easier to insert/remove than the Diva. But, I like the non-waste of the Diva.
except for me my period is more like 7 days from start to finish. The first day and last are minimal, so I suppose we could. I'm usually feeling blah the first few days, so I am not interested. DH does complain that my period is every week...he said he feels like it's that way. Think we need to be better about having sex when it's not my period.
BTW. I am about to make the grossest and most shameful post of my life. You have been warned.
..........
I totally use my Instead Softcups 3-5 times each. I figure if I can rinse and re-use a Diva, what's so bad about doing the same with an Instead? I wouldn't use the same one for days and days because the thin plastic would likely break down, but at almost 50 cents a pop, I need to change mine every 1-2 hours, and that is CRAZY money. So when I use them, I rinse and reuse for several hours. I probably pull out a new one 3 or 4 times in any 24 hour time frame.
I googled this, and I am not alone.
http://www.mum.org/CupComm.htm
TMI, but I bought a red towel from Target and we lay it down on the bed. Then I just throw it in the wash. No need to worry about it staining and we have never had it leak through the towel. Works like a charm. Just make sure you don't put it away with the rest of your towels. My mother-in-law was staying over once and did the laundry and folded the towel with the other towels. I almost died when MIL came downstairs the next day with the red towel wrapped around her hair! I know it was theoretically clean having been through the washer but DH and I were mortified.
Mommy to my little bear cubs DD1 and DD2- 4/2010 and 4/2012