A sexuality resource for the Brandeis University community and beyond...  

Home

About SSIS

Resources/Referrals

Help in a Crisis

Safer Sex

Sexual Assault

STIs

 

 

 

 

 


Home > About SSIS > Menu > The Keeper

What is it?
The Keeper is a small, natural rubber menstrual cup worn inside the vagina as an alternative to tampons and disposable pads. The cup is bell shaped, around two inches long, and made from 100% natural gum rubber. It is comfortable, convenient, and easy to use.

The Keeper is worn internally and forms a seal with your vaginal walls allowing your menstrual fluid to pass into the cup without leakage or odor. It is a healthy, environmentally friendly, economical, and convenient alternative to conventional menstrual products.

Great Reasons to Use the Keeper (tm)
For Our Environment
If you use disposable tampons and pads, you throw away an average of 10,000 to 15,000 menstrual products in your lifetime. These disposable products cause problems in our sewage systems, litter our beaches, and take up space in landfills. By using The Keeper (tm) you are creating no waste. You can make a significant difference by using this environmentally friendly product. The menstrual cup is made from natural rubber, obtained by tapping standing gum trees. No trees are destroyed to produce the cup. No synthetic latex or other chemicals are included in its manufacture, and it lasts for at least 10 years.

For Your Health
The Keeper (tm) is made of all-natural gum rubber. Unlike most store-bought products, The Keeper (tm) is not chlorine-bleached and contains no harmful fibers. It contains no chemicals, bleaches, deodorizers or absorbency gels and does not interfere with the healthy vaginal environment.

For Your Savings
If you use disposable tampons and pads you will spend an average of $1500 to $2000 in your lifetime. One Keeper (tm) lasts at least ten years and pays for itself in 5 or 6 months.

For Your Convenience: No More Running to the Store
When you use The Keeper (tm) you will never have to worry about running to the store for menstrual products or worry about having to carry extra tampons or pads in your bag or pocket. This product is small enough to fit in your back pocket, discreet enough to slip into an evening bag, light enough to carry on a backpacking trip and simple to use wherever you are

Learning to Use The Keeper (tm)
Think of your first few attempts at inserting and removing The Keeper (tm) as practice. You may want to try this during the last few days of your period. You will then be prepared for your next menstrual cycle. After using The Keeper (tm) for two or three periods, it should become a simple routine.

How to Fold
Press the sides of the flexible cup together and then fold it in half.

How to Hold
Hold the folded Keeper (tm) between your thumb and your index finger.

Easy Insertion
Insert the folded Keeper (tm) completely into your vagina. Let go of the cup and it will unfold. The Keeper (tm) sits comfortably in your vaginal canal, just below your cervix.

To Prevent Seepage
After inserting The Keeper (tm), you can hold the bottom of the cup and give it one full turn, or you can also pull the pull-tab down and forward. Both will ensure a good sear and prevent any leakage.

Removing The Keeper (tm)

The Keeper (tm) holds one full ounce. Since most women flow two to four ounces during their menstrual period, emptying the cup a few times a day is usually adequate. After using The Keeper (tm) once or twice you'll become more familiar with your menstrual pattern and you will know exactly how often you need to empty the cup.

Emptying The Keeper (tm)

While sitting on the toilet or standing (whichever is comfortable for you), grasp the pull-tab firmly. Squeezing the base of the cup will release the seal. Pull gently forward and downward, supporting the bottom of the cup with your fingers. Empty, rinse, or wipe The Keeper (tm) and then simply reinsert it.

How to Clean

At the end of your period, wash The Keeper (tm) in hot, soapy water. Don't boil it. Dry thoroughly and place it in the bag.


Frequently Asked Questions

What will I do in a public washroom?

Simply wipe The Keeper (tm) with toilet paper or a wet paper towel in the toilet stall, rather than rinsing it at the sink.

It looks too big. Is it comfortable? What about the tab?
After getting used to inserting and removing it, you won't even know you are wearing it. If the tab is too long and causes you discomfort, cut it to the length that suits you (¼" at a time). Be careful not to cut it too short. Correctly inserted, the menstrual cup is so comfortable that you will forget it exists. It may take a little practice at first, as you need to find the angle and position that is right for you.

Can I swim in it?

Yes, absolutely. Enjoy any and all physical activities!

Is there leakage?

The Keeper (tm), originally known as The Tassette, was developed in the 1930s by a ballet dancer and her physician husband. They wanted a product that would minimize leakage so she could dance worry-free. The Keeper (tm) can be twisted after insertion to create a seal and prevent leakage.

What about Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

Because of what we've all heard about the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) with tampons, women are sometimes cautious about using an internal menstrual product. Cases of TSS are usually linked to high absorbency tampons-the higher the absorbency, the greater the risk of TSS. Absorbent products make women more susceptible to infections and TSS. The Keeper (tm) does not absorb; it is a receptacle for menstrual blood. There are no reported cases of TSS linked to the Keeper.

How to Purchase The Keeper (tm)
The Brandeis University community may purchase The Keeper (tm) from SSIS for the discounted price of $20.
Others should order from The Lion and the Sun. Send a check or money order for $35 per Keeper (tm) to the following address. Be sure to indicate whether you need Keeper Style A (have had vaginal childbirth) or Keeper Style B (have not had vaginal childbirth).

The Lion and the Sun
150 Mass. Ave. #2424
Boston, MA 02115

You may also call (617) 747-8664.
Please mention you learned about The Keeper (tm) from "SSIS at Brandeis University" when ordering.
If you are unsatisfied with your purchase of the Keeper you may return it within three months for a full money back guarantee. It will be sent back to the manufacturer and destroyed.

Back to top