Can you use menstrual cups in space?

April 4, 2025

menstrual health research for space travel

Menstruation is a natural process that doesn't pause for space travel! As more women venture into space, addressing astronaut menstrual health becomes essential.

Traditional menstrual products like pads and tampons have been the norm, but are they the most efficient choice for space missions?

Let's explore the feasibility and benefits of using menstrual cups in space.

How do astronauts currently manage their periods?

Historically, female astronauts have managed menstruation by:

Menstrual suppression: Many opt for hormonal treatments to suppress their periods during missions. This approach reduces the need for menstrual products but may not be suitable for everyone.

2. Disposable products: Others use pads or tampons. However, these products contribute to waste and occupy valuable storage space. Considering NASA's estimate that launching cargo costs about $10,000 USD per pound, minimizing waste is crucial.

Are menstrual cups suitable for space missions?

Menstrual cups are emerging as a promising solution for menstruation management in no gravity environments. Their advantages include:

Reusability: Unlike disposable products, menstrual cups can be sterilized and reused, aligning with the need for sustainable menstruation in space missions.

2. Space efficiency: Their compact size makes them the ideal space-friendly menstrual product, freeing up storage for other essential items.

3. Capacity: Menstrual cups typically hold more fluid than tampons, reducing the frequency of changes and enhancing menstrual hygiene in zero gravity conditions.

Does research support menstrual cup use in space?

Recent studies have begun to address menstrual cup durability in space.

In October 2022, the AstroCup project launched two menstrual cups aboard the Portuguese rocket Baltasar.

These cups experienced microgravity and returned to Earth intact, demonstrating resilience to the conditions of space travel.

What are some challenges of using menstrual cups in space?

While menstrual cups are a promising reusable menstrual solution for astronauts, some challenges must be addressed:

Insertion: Menstrual cup insertion techniques in zero gravity require adaptation, as the absence of gravity affects bodily functions.

2. Sanitation and sterilization: Establishing effective menstrual cup cleaning protocols for astronauts is vital. Limited water supply necessitates alternative menstrual cup sterilization methods for space missions, such as specialized wipes or heat-induced sterilization treatments.

3. Training and education: Comprehensive menstrual health education for space travelers ensures astronauts are comfortable and proficient in using menstrual cups during missions.

menstrual cup safety in space environments

Why should space agencies consider menstrual cups?

Environmental impact: Menstrual cup adoption in long-duration space missions reduces waste and aligns with sustainability goals.

2. Cost efficiency: Minimizing the use of disposable products can lower cargo weight and associated launch costs.

3. Health and comfort: Providing astronauts with reliable and comfortable menstrual products supports overall well-being and mission performance.

As humanity prepares for extended space exploration, addressing menstrual health considerations for female astronauts is imperative. Menstrual cups present a viable option for menstrual cycle management during spaceflight, offering sustainability and efficiency.

Ongoing research and open discussions will pave the way for their adoption in future missions.