Relevant to this, Chen Su Vien and Cheah Yivon co-founded the online enterprise Bloody Goodshop in September to promote the life-changing benefits of the menstrual cup.

“Apart from selling a few brands of menstrual cups and period-care products, our aim is to normalise the conversations about menstruation,” Chen, a 27-year-old freelance creative, told FMT.

Period pain

Even though many women experience crippling menstrual cramps – doctors have even acknowledged that it can be as painful as a heart attack – period pains are often dismissed.

“I get severe period pains and there are days when I’d have to take leave from work – although, like many women, I’d rather give another excuse,” Chen said.

“We’re trying to change this. Period pain should not be taken lightly.”

Hearing stories about how women struggle with endometriosis and adenomyosis – disorders of the endometrial tissue that lines the inside of the uterus – has further encouraged her to speak up on issues of reproductive health.

“It is reported that one in 10 women suffers from these conditions, even though the numbers could be much higher because many women are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed,” she noted.

And one of the reasons women know so little about their reproductive parts, especially what’s considered normal or abnormal, is because such conversations are often deemed awkward or embarrassing.

“The more we talk about it, the more normal it becomes. Reproductive health should concern all of society,” she added.

Menstrual cups

Unbeknownst to many, menstrual cups have been around since the 1930s, although they’ve only become more popular in recent times.

Chen recognises using one can be somewhat intimidating for first-timers, so she recommends Bloody Goodshop’s starter kit.

“It comes with a mini pot that can be used to sterilise the cup, as well as a cup wash. That’s all you really need to get started.

“We generally recommend the softer cups for new users, but if you have an active lifestyle, we recommend the firmer ones to prevent leakages.”

In terms of sizing, women who have had vaginal births, as well as those with heavy menstrual flow, should opt for the bigger size.

“Many have told us they have very heavy period flow and didn’t think they could use a menstrual cup, only to realise otherwise after trying it,” Chen shared.

She also said they receive many questions on whether menstrual cups can be used by virgins, especially from mothers who are thinking of getting it for their daughters.

“The hymen is just a tissue that can stretch and tear over time, either naturally or during sports. It shouldn’t stop you from using the cup,” she explained.

Chen – who has been using menstrual cups for the past five years, primarily for convenience – added that using the product promotes sustainability as it is eco-friendly, with a single cup lasting up to 10 years.

“Ultimately, we hope to convert pads and tampons to cups as we really think it’s the future. That’s the cherry on top; it makes us feel good to contribute towards something greater.”

She invites anyone who has questions about menstrual cups to get in touch with them via social media.

In conjunction with International Women’s Day on March 8, as well as endometriosis and adenomyosis awareness this month and last, Bloody Goodshop embarked on a collaboration with embroidery artist Anni Tai, who came up with a beautiful floral uterus pouch for the menstrual cups.

“When women come together for a common cause, incredible things happen,” Chen said.

“We hope having something visually interesting like this will spark conversations, as it is still a topic a lot of people shy away from.”

The limited-edition pouches are a part of Bloody Goodshop’s Anni Tai x OrganiCup Kit, which can be ordered via its website.

Bloody Goodshop delivers throughout Malaysia as well as to Singapore. To learn more, visit its website, and Facebook and Instagram accounts.