Everything you need to know about menstrual sponges

All questions about the use of the sponges:

What is the best way to insert the menstrual sponge?

1. After washing your hands thoroughly, moisten the sponge under running water and squeeze it with your hands until there is hardly any liquid left in the sponge.

2. Squeeze the sponge with the tweezers handle or two fingers (thumb and index finger or middle finger).

3. Insert it slowly and tightly into the vagina. Listen to your body and place the sponge where it feels best for you. However, the menstrual sponge does not have to be placed as deeply in the body as a tampon.

Pro tip: For larger period sponges, you can twist the two "ends" of the sponge together in opposite directions and insert them. This carefully removes any liquid from the sponge and at the same time it takes on the elongated shape of a tampon, which can make insertion even easier.

In which position do I insert and remove the menstrual sponge?

We recommend these 3 positions:

1. Squatting

2. One leg up (for example on the toilet or bathtub)

3. Ski jumper position

Is the sponge odorless?

The sponge is odorless and the enzymes and minerals it contains inhibit the development of odors and the growth of fungi and bacteria. Conventional menstrual products such as tampons and pads contain toxins that can increase the natural pH value and thus promote the growth of bacteria and unpleasant odours. The natural material of the menstrual sponge supports your vaginal flora and ensures a healthy pH value.

If you still notice an unpleasant smell, first wash your sponge with water and then place it in a mild vinegar-water solution for 2-3 hours.

As a second option, you can put the sponge in a glass of water and add 1-2 drops of tea tree oil (then wash it out thoroughly!) Tea tree oil also has an antibacterial effect, but should not be used too often.

How do I dry the menstrual sponges?

It is very important that you allow the menstrual sponges to air dry completely after cleaning, whether during or after your period. We do not recommend drying the sponge in the bathroom due to the increased humidity. Once you have ensured that the menstrual sponges are 100% dry, store them in our air-permeable hygienic bag and not in a place that does not allow oxygen, such as in the shipping box.

Can the sponge get lost in the body?

No - don't worry! The sponge can never get lost in your body or enter your uterus! The cervix of non-pregnant women is much too small for the sponge. In addition, the sponge automatically slides down a bit as soon as it is full of blood. If you still can't grab it, apply pressure to your pelvic floor muscles to make it even easier to remove. It is important that you do not tense up and remain calm. Take your time when removing it and for maximum relaxation you can also take a bath, for example. This will allow the sponge to absorb water easily and allow it to slide further down.

Please note the maximum recommended wearing time of 8 hours. You can find further information on TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) in the FAQ or in our package insert.

Notes on the TSS

Toxic shock syndrome is rare but is a serious condition in which harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream and release toxins. TSS can occur with all period products.

We recommend the following steps to reduce the risk of TSS:

- Before your period, clean the sponges with the vinegar-water solution (ratio 1:2) overnight and then wash and squeeze them thoroughly with water. This process can also be repeated during your period.

- Do not use any vaginal hygiene products or contraceptives, including the HERA organics menstrual sponge , if you have ever had TSS.

- Don't forget to remove and clean your menstrual sponge, ideally after 3-5 hours but no more than 7 hours. You can then reinsert it.

- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after using your menstrual sponge.

Symptoms of TSS are often similar to flu and include:

- Sudden high fever

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Dizziness

- powerlessness

- Sunburn-like redness of the skin during or a few days after menstruation

If you experience symptoms, please contact a doctor immediately.

Your sponge lexicon:

What is a menstrual sponge?

The sponges is one of the multicellular organisms from the sea. Sponges consist of fine, water-permeable pores and there are over 10,000 species worldwide. They have no brain, no nerve cells, no organs, no muscles, but they have properties that can help many people, for example in medicine. Sponges have been around for hundreds of millions of years and have many uses.

Is the menstrual sponge vegan?

The sponge is an aquatic organism. From a biological point of view, strictly speaking, it is not a plant, but falls under the category of multicellular organisms. The sponge has no brain, no organs, no circulatory or central nervous system and therefore no muscle and sensory cells. In addition, not the entire sponge is picked during harvest, but mere parts of it to ensure sustainable degradation. The sponge can also reproduce asexually by growing buds on the sponge, which are pinched off by it.

Many vegans consider the sponge to be vegan-friendly, despite its classification as an animal, because the sponge lives, grows, and reproduces much like a plant.

How is the sponge harvested?

HERA Organics menstrual sponges come from a third-generation Greek family business. These naturally occurring sea sponges are sustainably harvested by selected divers in the Mediterranean at depths of 50-100 meters. To support regeneration, only a portion of the sponge is removed at a time so that it can grow back within a few months. Strict harvest breaks are observed to protect natural stocks and not harm the marine ecosystem.

After harvesting, the sponges are thoroughly cleaned while preserving their natural texture. Always make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before use.

Since when have menstrual sponges been around?

Menstrual sponges are the original tampons and have been used since ancient times.

General questions:

How much do I pay for shipping?

How long does the delivery take?