Have you heard about menstrual sponges and are wondering if they're a good alternative to tampons? Are you looking for a place to buy them in a pharmacy or online? Are you wondering about the risks or how to use them with an IUD? Menstrual sponges arouse a lot of curiosity, but also quite a few legitimate questions. It must be said that this hygienic protection, which comes straight from Antiquity, remains relatively unknown to the general public. So, is it a good idea or a bad one? We'll tell you everything straight to the point.
What you must remember
- Menstrual sponges are reusable internal protections, natural (sea sponge) or synthetic
- They include documented risks : toxic shock syndrome, presence of impurities, higher bacteria levels
- Their use with an IUD is not recommended because the threads can get stuck in the sponge.
- They can be worn during sex, unlike tampons or cups.
- Difficult to find in pharmacies, they are mainly purchased online
Menstrual Sponge, What Exactly Is It?
Before diving into the practical details, let's start at the beginning. A menstrual sponge is an internal sanitary protection that is inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow, just like a tampon.
The Two Types of Sponges
Natural sea sponges
These are real marine sponges harvested from the oceans, mainly in the Mediterranean (hence the name "Levantine sponges"). The sponge is an aquatic animal (spongiaria) devoid of organs and a nervous system. After harvesting, it is cleaned, treated, and disinfected for intimate use. These sponges are biodegradable, reusable for 6 to 10 months, and cost between 4 and 6 euros each.
Synthetic sponges
Made of polyurethane or polyester foam. Some are single-use, others reusable. They may contain chemicals and have a greater environmental impact than natural sponges.
Unlike tampons, which contain super-absorbent materials that can dry out the vagina, natural sponges are inserted moist and conform to the shape of the vagina. They don't have a string for removal, which can be surprising at first.
How to Use a Menstrual Sponge
Using it requires some learning and a certain level of comfort with your body. But once you get the hang of it, it's relatively simple.
First Use: Essential Cleaning
Please note, this step is non-negotiable. Even if the sponge has been cleaned after harvesting, this cleaning does not guarantee total elimination of impurities (sand, algae, bacteria). You must absolutely clean it yourself before first use.
Initial cleaning protocol
- Soak the sponge for 1 hour in water with the following added: 1 tablespoon of white vinegar OR 1 tablespoon of baking soda OR 2 drops of tea tree or niaouli essential oil
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Squeeze well
- Let air dry
Insertion
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Dampen the sponge with warm water and wring it out lightly (it should be damp, not soaking wet)
- Find a comfortable position (squatting, one leg raised, sitting on the toilet)
- Pinch the sponge to make it smaller and insert it into the vagina with your fingers, like a tampon without an applicator
- Push it high enough so that it's comfortable. If you can feel it, it's not far enough.
Wearing time : Between 4 and 8 hours maximum depending on your flow. For a heavy flow, change it every 3-4 hours. Never keep it in for more than 8 hours to limit the risk of toxic shock syndrome.
Removal and Maintenance
This is where it can get a little tricky, especially the first few times.
To remove the sponge
- wash your hands
- Squat down or find a comfortable position
- Contract your perineal muscles to push the sponge down
- Insert two fingers (thumb and index finger) and pinch the sponge gently
- Please note : do not squeeze too hard if the sponge is soaked with blood, otherwise it may leak
Cleaning between uses (during menstruation): Rinse the sponge in cold water, then warm water to remove blood. Wash with a mild, pH-neutral soap, wring out, and reinsert.
End of cycle cleaning : Repeat the initial disinfection protocol (vinegar/bicarbonate/EO soak), rinse, wring out, let dry completely then store in its cotton pouch, away from dust.
Real Dangers and Risks
Let's be honest. Menstrual sponges aren't without risks, and it's important to know this before making your choice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified them as "risky" as early as the 1980s based on several studies.
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Like any internal protection (tampon, cup), the menstrual sponge can cause toxic shock syndrome if worn for too long. This rare but serious bacterial infection is caused by toxins produced by certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus.
A study conducted in Salt Lake City in the 1980s showed that the bacteria responsible for toxic shock had much higher colonization rates in women using sponges than in those using tamponsThe Atlanta CDC even reported a confirmed case of TSS linked to menstrual sponge use.
Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome
If you develop these symptoms during your period, immediately remove the sponge and seek emergency medical help :
- Sudden fever above 39°C
- Sunburn-like rash
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Headache, confusion, dizziness
- Drop in blood pressure
Presence of Impurities and Bacteria
Several studies have analyzed menstrual sponges, and the results are concerning. Research conducted by the University of Iowa in the late 1980s found traces of sand, dust, bacteria, and various materials in 12 sponges tested. The FDA conducted its own inspections and found sand, dust, bacteria, yeast, and mold.
Another study showed that women using menstrual sponges had higher rates of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and enterobacteria than those using tampons or pads.
Risks of Vaginal Infections
The sponge can alter the pH of the vaginal flora and cause infections, especially if cleaning between uses is not thorough enough. Bacteria can multiply while the sponge air dries.
Important point : The safety of using menstrual sponges, especially sea sponges, has never been scientifically proven. Very few studies have been conducted on the subject, which is why their marketing requires special "premarket" approval from the FDA.
Stuck Menstrual Sponge, What to Do?
This situation happens, especially after sex or if the sponge has been pushed too far. Don't panic, but you must act calmly.
Techniques for Removing a Stuck Sponge
- Shower Method : Stand in the shower and direct the warm water jet towards the entrance of the vagina. The water will cause the sponge to swell and lower it
- Lying or squatting position : Lie on your back with your knees bent, or squat down completely. Push with your pelvic muscles as if you were having a bowel movement.
- Two-finger technique : Insert the index and middle fingers deeply in a hook shape to catch the sponge
- If nothing works Don't force it or panic. See a doctor quickly or go to the gynecological emergency room. It's not serious, and medical staff are used to it.
The sponge cannot "get lost" in your body or travel up into the uterus. The cervix is much too small for a sponge to pass through. It must remain in the vagina.
Menstrual Sponge & Sexual Intercourse
This is one of the major benefits highlighted by users. Unlike tampons (which must be removed) or cups (which block access to the vagina), the menstrual sponge can be worn during penetrative sex.
How It Works
The sponge, which is soft and placed in the upper part of the vagina, generally does not interfere with penetration. It absorbs blood and limits leakage, allowing intercourse without visible traces of blood on the sheets.
- Most women don't feel it during intercourse.
- The partner can sometimes feel it depending on the positions, but should not be bothered
- For a very heavy flow, it is best to change the sponge just before intercourse.
- Please note : penetration can push the sponge very far into the vagina, making it more difficult to remove afterwards
Important : The menstrual sponge is not a method of contraception. It does not protect against pregnancy or STIs. Use appropriate contraception.
IUD & Menstrual Sponges: Combination Not Recommended
If you have an intrauterine device (IUD), whether a copper or hormonal IUD, The use of menstrual sponges is strongly discouraged by health professionals.
Why It's Not Compatible
The IUD is inserted into the uterus with two small strings that protrude from the cervix into the vagina. These strings allow the doctor to remove the IUD when the time comes. The problem? These threads can get stuck in the porous cells of the menstrual sponge.
Possible result: Removing the sponge may pull on the IUD strings and dislodge or even expel it completely. A displaced IUD loses its contraceptive effectiveness and can cause pain or abnormal bleeding.
If you still want to try (after medical advice)
- Wait at least 8 weeks after IUD insertion
- Ask your gynecologist for advice before starting
- Cut the sponge so that it is smaller and does not go up to the collar
- When removing, be extremely careful and check that you do not catch the IUD strings.
Our recommendation : If you have an IUD, choose other protections such as period panties, safer in your situation.
Where to Buy Menstrual Sponges?
Unlike tampons or pads, menstrual sponges are not available everywhere. Their distribution remains confidential.
In Pharmacy and Parapharmacy
Some pharmacies sell them, but it's quite rare. Don't buy a regular bath sponge sold in a pharmacy to use as menstrual protection. The pores are too large, and the treatment products aren't suitable for intravaginal use.
Consulting : Call pharmacies in your area before you go to see if they have them in stock. The advantage of buying from a pharmacy: you can ask your questions directly to the pharmacist.
In line
This is the main purchasing channel for menstrual sponges. Several websites specializing in eco-friendly protection offer them.
Points to watch out for when buying online
- Check that the sponge is marketed as a "menstrual sponge" (intimate use clearly mentioned)
- DO NOT buy a synthetic sponge with a fuzzy composition
- Make sure the seller is reliable and that the sponges have not been bleached with chlorine
- Choose brands that guarantee rigorous quality control
- Check out other users' reviews
RRP : Between 4 and 6 euros for a natural sponge, usable for 6 to 10 cycles (or approximately 6 to 10 months).
Alternatives to Menstrual Sponges
After reading all this, you might be wondering if there aren't other, safer and equally eco-friendly options. The answer is yes.
Period Panties
External protection, Period Panties are made of several layers of absorbent and waterproof technical fabrics. They are worn like normal panties and can absorb the equivalent of 3 to 5 tampons depending on the model.
Benefits of period panties
- No risk of toxic shock syndrome (external protection)
- No internal manipulation required
- Comfortable and invisible under clothing
- Reusable for several years
- Compatible with the IUD without any problem
- Several models for all flows and all body types
Menstrual Swimwear
Whether you're on vacation, at the pool, or at the beach, Period Swimwears work on the same principle as panties. They allow you to swim during your period without internal protection.
The Menstrual Cup
Internal protection made of medical silicone, reusable for 5 to 10 years. It collects blood instead of absorbing it. Unlike a sponge, the cup does not present a risk of impurities and is easier to clean. However, it cannot be worn during sexual intercourse.
Discover a safer and equally ecological alternative
Our Period Panties offer reliable protection without the risks of internal protection. Reusable for years, comfortable, and compatible with all forms of contraception.
Our Final Opinion on Menstrual Sponges
Menstrual sponges have undeniable advantages. Eco-friendly, reusable, comfortable, and compatible with sexual intercourse, they appeal to some users. But let's be honest about the drawbacks and risks.
The positive points
- Ecological and economical protection (€4-6 for 6-10 months)
- Comfortable once properly positioned
- Can be worn during intercourse
- Does not dry out the vaginal mucosa like tampons
The negative points (not to be overlooked)
- Documented risks of TSS, infections and presence of impurities
- Safety never scientifically demonstrated
- Restrictive and crucial cleaning
- Removal is sometimes difficult, especially for beginners
- Incompatible with wearing an IUD
- Hard to find in stores
🔍 Our Recommendation
If you're curious and don't have an IUD, you can try menstrual sponges. by scrupulously respecting hygiene rules. However, always keep in mind the real risks documented by scientific studies that we have mentioned in this article.
For a safer alternative, Period Panties offer the same ecological and economical benefits, without the disadvantages and risks of internal protection. They represent a responsible and safe choice for your intimate health.
Sources & Scientific References
All statements in this article are based on published, peer-reviewed scientific studies. Full references to the original publications are provided below.
- Smith CB, Noble V, Bensch R, et al. Bacterial Flora of the Vagina During the Menstrual Cycle: Findings in Users of Tampons, Napkins, and Sea Sponges. Ann Intern Med. 1982;96(6_Part_2):948-951. DOI: 10.7326/0003-4819-96-6-948
- Faich G, Pearson K, Fleming D, et al. Toxic shock syndrome and the vaginal contraceptive sponge. JAMA. 1986;255(2):216-218. PMID: 3001376
- Berger S, Kunerl A, Wasmuth S, et al. Menstrual toxic shock syndrome: case report and systematic review of the literature. Lancet Infect Dis. 2019;19(9):e313-e321. DOI: 10.1016/S1473-3099(19)30041-6
- Schlievert PM, Davis CC. Device-Associated Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2020;33(3):e00032-19. DOI: 10.1128/CMR.00032-19
- Mitchell MA, Bisch S, Arntfield S, Hosseini-Moghaddam SM. A confirmed case of toxic shock syndrome associated with the use of a menstrual cup. Can J Infect Dis Med Microbiol. 2015;26(4):218-220. DOI: 10.1155/2015/560959
- Reingold AL, Broome CV, Gaventa S, et al. Risk factors for menstrual toxic shock syndrome: results of a multistate case-control study. Rev Infect Dis. 1989;11(Suppl 1):S35-S42. DOI: 10.1093/clinids/11.supplement_1.s35
- US Food and Drug Administration. CPG Sec. 345.300 Menstrual Sponges. FDA Guidance Document
- Parsonnet J, Hansmann MA, Delaney ML, et al. Prevalence of toxic shock syndrome toxin 1-producing Staphylococcus aureus and the presence of antibodies to this superantigen in menstruating women. J Clin Microbiol. 2005;43(9):4628-4634. DOI: 10.1128/JCM.43.9.4628-4634.2005
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your gynecologist for any questions regarding your intimate health.
