How might I deal with menstruation/washroom issues while camping?!
Question: I am aware that there are many questions on yahoo regarding camping while on your period.. but I was not satisfied with any of the other answers.
Last year, I was part of a canoeing trip moving down a river, with no plumbing, etc (only 'thunderboxes') because we would set up tents for the night then move on the next morning. This was all very new to me, especially the washroom bit, and I felt very uncomfortable getting up to use the washroom while others were around. during the entire week-long trip, I "relieved" myself 4 times. which is not healthy, I know. this next summer, I intend on going on a similar trip. If the week happens to coincide with my period, I want to be prepared. I have heard of several types of menstrual cups, which I could keep in for longer periods of time (great, because I know I will still feel uncomfortable with this..). But really, my concern is with this camping 'etiquette' in terms of going to the washroom.
What could I do to be more comfortable?
Answers: I am aware that there are many questions on yahoo regarding camping while on your period.. but I was not satisfied with any of the other answers.
Last year, I was part of a canoeing trip moving down a river, with no plumbing, etc (only 'thunderboxes') because we would set up tents for the night then move on the next morning. This was all very new to me, especially the washroom bit, and I felt very uncomfortable getting up to use the washroom while others were around. during the entire week-long trip, I "relieved" myself 4 times. which is not healthy, I know. this next summer, I intend on going on a similar trip. If the week happens to coincide with my period, I want to be prepared. I have heard of several types of menstrual cups, which I could keep in for longer periods of time (great, because I know I will still feel uncomfortable with this..). But really, my concern is with this camping 'etiquette' in terms of going to the washroom.
What could I do to be more comfortable?
I find a menstrual cup makes camping a lot easier. There's no garbage involved with it and no one will know you are on your period. I have a relatively light flow and on my heaviest day I need to empty my cup once. Of course, it is recommended you empty it every 6-8 hours or so, but I know plenty of women who don't do that. With a cup, you could excuse yourself, grab a bottle of water, empty your cup and rinse it off with the water, and reinsert. I've used mine for camping and it was a breeze....something to look into!