Kidney Injury from Menstrual Cup: A Warning for Women

Woman Develops Kidney Injury From Menstrual Cup in Rare Case: What You Need to Know

In a rare and alarming case, a woman developed kidney injury as a result of using a menstrual cup, highlighting the importance of proper use and positioning of the popular menstrual product. As more women turn to menstrual cups as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to tampons and pads, experts are urging users to be aware of potential risks, particularly when it comes to selecting the right size and ensuring proper placement.

The Popularity of Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups, made from flexible silicone or rubber, have gained widespread popularity over the last decade. They offer a reusable and sustainable option for menstruation management, appealing to women looking for greener alternatives to traditional menstrual products. Not only do they reduce waste, but menstrual cups are also a cost-effective solution, lasting for years with proper care.

Studies have shown that menstrual cups are as safe and effective as other menstrual products when used correctly, but improper use, such as incorrect sizing or incorrect placement, can result in health complications.

The Case of Kidney Injury

The recent case, reported by urologists Clara Maarup Prip and Lotte Kaasgaard Jakobsen from Aarhus University in Denmark, centers on a young woman in her early 30s. The patient began experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, blood in her urine, and swelling in her right kidney over a period of six months. After an initial scan, doctors discovered swelling in her kidney and ureter, the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder.

What’s more concerning is that imaging revealed the edges of a menstrual cup pressing against the opening of the woman’s ureter, creating a physical obstruction. The pressure from the cup, which is designed to suction to the vaginal walls, was compressing the ureter, resulting in the kidney swelling and other symptoms.

How Menstrual Cups Can Cause Complications

Menstrual cups are designed to sit comfortably within the vaginal canal, where they collect menstrual fluid. They work by creating suction against the vaginal walls, helping to keep the cup in place during menstruation. However, when a cup is either too large or improperly positioned, it can create unwanted pressure on nearby organs, such as the ureter.

The ureter runs close to the vaginal wall, and in this case, the menstrual cup’s positioning was causing enough compression to block the normal flow of urine, leading to swelling in the kidney. Fortunately, after the woman refrained from using the menstrual cup for the next cycle, her symptoms completely resolved, and follow-up scans showed a reduction in kidney swelling.

Correct Use Is Key to Avoiding Complications

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of choosing the right size menstrual cup and using it correctly. While it’s rare, this woman’s case underscores the need for proper education on menstrual cup use. In fact, some pelvic conditions, such as a tilted pelvis, can require adjustments to the positioning of the menstrual cup.

Choosing the correct size and inserting the cup correctly is essential to avoid complications. The women should be aware of the signs that could indicate something is wrong, such as back or abdominal pain, blood in the urine, or discomfort during menstruation.

A Rare but Serious Issue

The urologists behind the case study stressed that this is an unusual and isolated occurrence. While several other cases have been reported in medical literature, most instances were easily remedied once the cup was repositioned or replaced with a smaller size. The symptoms typically resolved within a short time after discontinuing use of the menstrual cup.

For example, in some recorded cases, patients were able to continue using menstrual cups after adjusting the size or changing how they positioned the cup inside their bodies. The key takeaway is that understanding one’s body and how to correctly use the product can prevent most issues.

Minimizing Risks with Menstrual Cups

To avoid complications like the one reported in this case, experts recommend following a few important guidelines when using a menstrual cup:

1. Choose the Right Size: Menstrual cups come in various sizes to accommodate different body types, pelvic shapes, and menstrual flows. It’s important to select the right size based on your body’s needs.

2. Correct Positioning: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for how to insert the cup. Some individuals with a tilted pelvic floor or unique anatomy may need to adjust the position of the cup lower in the vaginal canal to avoid pressure on surrounding organs.

3. Know the Symptoms of Complications: Although these types of complications are rare, women should be aware of any unusual symptoms. These may include abdominal or flank pain, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating. If any of these symptoms occur, it's crucial to seek medical attention.

4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If unsure about which size or type of menstrual cup to choose, it’s advisable to consult a gynecologist or urologist for guidance tailored to your body’s needs.

An Unlikely But Important Reminder

While menstrual cups are a safe and effective option for many women, this rare case serves as an important reminder to use them with care. Women should be mindful of how to properly position the cup, choose the right size, and seek medical advice if they experience any unusual symptoms. As menstrual cups continue to rise in popularity, educating users about the potential risks and best practices can ensure their safety and effectiveness.