Hey all,
I have a question about Diva Cups and how to take care of them while traveling on glaciers/snow covered areas for an extended amount of time. What are some tips and tricks for keeping them clean, how clean, and how to dispose of the contents (treat it the same as pee? Pack it...out?). Were there any issues with using one?
Thanks!
Maddie
Hey Maddie!
I have used a diva cup exclusively for several years now, I'd say 3-4 years. I have paired it with THINX period underwear to control leakage. Which sometimes happens on my heavier days. I like this system because in the end its 1) more affordable and 2) no waste.
Personally I don't stress cleaning it while I'm using it. Maybe that sounds gross and I'm happy to hear others input on this. If I have a way to wipe it out or rinse it I will definitely do that but if I don't I just stick it back in. Who cares? Not my vagina. Lol. Plus carrying extra wipes in my backpack just to wipe it out sounds like too much trouble on a long trip. After I'm done I wash it with soap, Dr. Bs if I have it but if not, soap is soap, let it air dry (if possible, or just wipe it down as best I can) and stick it back in the little reusable pouch I use to carry it in. If I don't have access to soap and water I'll wipe it out as best I can and store it, worry about cleaning it later.
As far as disposal--when we were in the Wrangells I tried to only dump it in the latrine, as I didn't want to shock anyone at the pee spot and the latrine was more private. It's also more subtle as far as its visual impact. I don't want to dump it where 1) others can watch or 2) others will see it by the skin track or camp later. That's gross. In my daily life I'll do it behind a tree or something. Somewhere hopefully where the mutilated snow isn't too visible. Or dig a hole. Whatever you think is best in that situation.
Like I said I use this exclusively and I like to keep it really simple. Ive never had any trouble with it. The THINX underwear was key though. I didn't want to have to start buying or carrying around panty liners and THINX was a perfect solution for me. Simple, easy to use, no waste, and I never have to worry about having enough tampons.