“Whoever invented this thing is god for me!”: Experiences of Indian Women with the Menstrual Cup

Menstrual health and hygiene represent critical areas of concern for sustainable development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where menstruation remains a challenging experience. This study examines menstrual cups as potential alternatives to traditional menstrual products in Kerala, India, through a post-positivist feminist lens that acknowledges objective realities while recognizing how these are shaped by social and cultural contexts. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, we integrate quantitative survey data (n=103) with in-depth qualitative interviews (n=8) to investigate the factors influencing continued use, discontinuation, and reluctance to use menstrual cups. Statistical analysis using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests was complemented by thematic analysis of qualitative data, revealing patterns that feminist scholarship helps explain. Most participants (75.7%) continued using menstrual cups, citing comfort (68%) and environmental benefits (18%) as primary motivators. Social media (37%) and peer networks (36%) functioned as key information sources, often challenging traditional family-based menstrual education. Thematic analysis identified five key themes: Comfort, Convenience and Freedom, Environmental Consciousness, Myths and Misconceptions, Health and Hygiene, and Awareness and Education. Feminist analysis reveals how these themes reflect broader social structures, with "myths and misconceptions" demonstrating how menstrual taboos function as manifestations of patriarchal power rather than merely individual misconceptions. This study contributes to feminist scholarship on menstruation by providing empirical evidence of how menstrual cup adoption in Kerala is influenced by both measurable factors and underlying social structures. The findings highlight the need for awareness campaigns that address menstrual stigma as a systemic issue and emphasize the importance of peer networks in supporting menstruators' health choices.