Do cups / discs affect bladder infections?Updated a year ago

If you're prone to bladder infections, we'd recommend consulting a doctor before switching to a menstrual cup or disc. 

There are a few things to keep in mind if you are experiencing bladder infections, BV or overgrowth of yeast / candida with your cup or disc. 

1) Use a mild pH-balanced wash to wash your cup or disc. Using soaps that are too strong will affect your vaginal pH and degrade the silicone of your cup or disc. Here is an article detailing what soaps/cleaners are not safe for your cup or disc. 

2) If you're cup or disc is putting pressure on your urethra, this may lead to a bladder infection. When the urine stream is slowed by the pressure of a cup or disc, bacteria can accumulate in the urethra which may lead to a bladder infection. Please follow the insertion guidelines here for a cup, and here for a disc to ensure you are inserting your product correctly and eliminating any undue pressure on your urethra. 

3) If you've experienced a UTI, BV, or an overgrowth of yeast / candida while using a cup or disc, we would recommend immediate disuse of your cup or disc and to sanitize your cup or disc immediately. Please also wash the cloth storage bag you use to store your cup or disc. Here's an article on how to sanitize your menstrual cup or disc. 

4) If you're using an original firmness Saalt Cup and experiencing bladder infections after applying the above tips, we'd recommend switching to a Saalt Soft Cup. The Saalt Soft is a natural progression for Saalt's menstrual cup line. It has the same bulb shape and soft, rounded transitions but is made from a slightly softer medical-grade silicone that is designed especially for those with bladder sensitivity, cramping, or discomfort with firmer cups. Read more information about the Saalt Soft here.