Menstrual Cups Tested in Space Flight Conditions for the First Time

Menstrual cups tested in space flight conditions for the first time

Scientists have launched menstrual cups into space for the first time, testing whether these reusable devices can withstand the extreme conditions of space travel. The AstroCup mission represents a key step toward giving female astronauts sustainable menstrual health options during long-duration missions to the moon and Mars.

Menstrual Cups Tested in Space Flight Conditions for the First Time

For long-duration missions, female astronauts generally use hormonal contraception to suppress their periods. But this method has potential health risks and requires special storage. Pads and tampons create waste in space. Now researchers have tested menstrual cups on a sub-orbital rocket flight, where they experienced the force of launch, and found they performed identically to ground control cups. This could provide a new option to female astr…