Menstrual cup

Abstract

The menstrual cup, according to an embodiment of the present invention, may comprise: a menstrual cup body which receives menstrual blood; and a lining which is accommodated in the menstrual cup body and includes a ring portion that hangs over the upper edge portion of the menstrual cup body, and a handle portion formed at the lower end thereof, and which folds and unfolds.

Description

menstrual cup

[0001] The present invention relates to a menstrual cup.

[0002] Generally, when women reach puberty, the biggest change that occurs in their bodies is the start of menstruation (period), and most of them use sanitary pads to prevent menstrual blood from leaking out during menstruation for more hygienic and comfortable activities.

[0003] These sanitary pads are in the form of pads and are attached to the inside of panties using attachment wings formed on both sides. Not only are they very uncomfortable to wear, but if the menstrual flow is heavy or they are worn incorrectly, menstrual blood often leaks out and stains the panties depending on movement, which can be very inconvenient, especially when going out.

[0004] Therefore, recently, tampons, which are inserted into the vagina and worn to alleviate the discomfort of pad-type sanitary pads, have been introduced. These tampons are made of absorbent stick-shaped material and are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. They offer the advantages of easy wear and absorbency. However, recent concerns have been raised that some users may experience vomiting or shock syndrome due to toxicity.

[0005] Accordingly, a menstrual cup made of silicone material that is harmless to the human body and has good resilience has been disclosed. The advantage of this menstrual cup is that it can be easily inserted into the vagina, and it prevents menstrual blood from leaking out while worn, so it has the advantage of being comfortable to wear even during strenuous activities or daily life.

[0006] However, conventional menstrual cups were not easy to insert smoothly into a woman's vagina because the cup entrance, that is, the upper part, was wider than the lower part when worn. In particular, when the size of the opened entrance of the cup was changed by folding or crumpling it to make it narrower than the original size, there was not only the hassle and inconvenience of wearing it, such as the process of adjusting the deformed part of the menstrual cup to spread it out well after insertion, but there was also the unsanitary problem of using the hand to insert it.

[0007] Additionally, there was a frequent problem of the menstrual cup slipping and spilling menstrual blood when removing it because there was no separate handle or guide when emptying the menstrual blood.

[0008] The present invention, which was conceived with the above technical background, aims to provide a menstrual cup that can reduce discomfort when wearing the menstrual cup and prevent menstrual blood leakage and hygiene problems when removing the menstrual cup.

[0009] A menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a menstrual cup body for receiving menstrual blood, a ring portion that is received inside the menstrual cup body and hangs over the rim of the menstrual cup body, and a handle portion formed at the bottom, and may include an inner membrane that is foldable or unfoldable.

[0010] The above menstrual cup body may include a hook formed by extending the rim portion and a hook formed at an angle from the ring portion of the inner membrane and hooked to the hook portion.

[0011] It may include a discharge portion connected to the inner membrane and through which the menstrual blood is discharged, and a plug portion fitted to the discharge portion.

[0012] The above plug portion may include a handle formed in a direction opposite to the discharge portion and a handle strap connecting the handle and the discharge portion.

[0013] It may include a guide line, one side of which is connected to the inner surface of the inner membrane and the other side of which is connected to the plug portion.

[0014] It may include a detachment prevention groove formed on the inner surface of the discharge portion and a detachment prevention projection formed to protrude on the outer surface of the plug portion and fitted into the detachment prevention groove.

[0015] A menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention can reduce discomfort when worn and prevent menstrual blood leakage and hygiene problems when removed.

[0016] Figure 1 is an exploded view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 is a step diagram showing the process of menstrual blood being discharged from a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Figure 6.

[0023] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the use of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9 is a diagram showing a state in which a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention is folded for wearing.

[0025] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of Fig. 10.

[0028] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the handle portion being pulled and folded as seen from B-B' of Fig. 10.

[0029] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030]

[0031] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description have been omitted for clarity of description, and the same reference numerals designate identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0032] In this specification, it should be understood that terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. In addition, when it is said that a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is "on" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly on" the other part, but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when it is said that a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is "under" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly under" the other part, but also the case where there is another part in between.

[0033] Figure 1 is an exploded view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Referring to Fig. 1, a menstrual cup (1) may include a menstrual cup body (10) and an inner membrane (20).

[0035] The menstrual cup body (10) can accommodate menstrual blood. For example, the menstrual cup body (10) can be formed in a funnel shape so that menstrual blood can be accommodated inside.

[0036] The menstrual cup body (10) may include a receiving portion (11) and a penetration portion (12).

[0037] The receiving portion (11) can receive the inner membrane (20). For example, the receiving portion (11) is formed as an internal compartment of the menstrual cup body (10) in a cone shape with an angle that narrows from one side to the other, so that the inner membrane (20) can be received.

[0038] The penetrating portion (12) can be passed through by the handle portion (23). For example, the penetrating portion (12) can be formed at the bottom of the menstrual cup body (10) in a circular shape with a larger area than the handle portion (23) and a smaller cross-sectional area than the inner membrane (20). Through this, the handle portion (23) can be passed through, but the inner membrane (20) cannot pass through, so that the inner membrane (20) can be stably seated on the menstrual cup body (10).

[0039] The inner membrane (20) is accommodated inside the menstrual cup body (10) so that the ring portion (22) can be folded or unfolded. For example, the inner membrane (20) can be accommodated inside the menstrual cup body (10) as a membrane formed of silicone material and having a thickness of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. Through this, the inner membrane (20) can be made flexible and can be easily folded and unfolded.

[0040] The inner lining (20) may include a ring portion (22) and a handle portion (23).

[0041] The ring part (22) can be hung over the rim of the menstrual cup body (10). For example, the ring part (22) can be a thin silicone material membrane formed to extend from the upper rim of the inner membrane (20) to the lower handle part (23). More specifically, the ring part (22) can be folded and unfolded from the upper edge where the inner membrane (20) comes into contact with the menstrual cup body (10). Through this, when the ring part (22) is folded, the inner membrane (20) can be coupled to the menstrual cup body (10), and when the ring part (22) is unfolded, the inner membrane (20) can be detached from the menstrual cup body (10).

[0042] The handle portion (23) may be formed at the bottom of the inner membrane (20). For example, the handle portion (23) may be a ring-shaped handle with a width wide enough to allow a human finger to pass through. This allows the finger to be inserted into the handle portion (23) and pulled more easily.

[0043] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Referring to Fig. 2, the menstrual cup body (10) can be fitted between the inner membrane (20) and the ring portion (22). For example, the ring portion (22) is formed to be spaced apart from the inner membrane (20) by about 0.5 mm to 1 mm, and the menstrual cup body (10) is formed to have a thickness of 0.6 mm to 1.2 mm, so that the menstrual cup body (10) can be fitted with a force fit by contacting the outer surface of the inner membrane (20) and the inner surface of the ring portion (22). Through this, the bond between the inner membrane (20) and the menstrual cup body (10) becomes more solid, so that when the menstrual cup (1) of the present invention is inserted into the vagina and used, an accident in which the bond between the inner membrane (20) and the menstrual cup body (10) becomes loose, causing menstrual blood (B) to leak or the inner membrane (20) to come off from the menstrual cup body (10) can be prevented. As a result, the user can use the menstrual cup (1) more stably.

[0045] The inner membrane (20) can be replaced from the menstrual cup body (10). For example, the inner membrane (20) can be automatically separated from the menstrual cup body (10) by directly unfolding the folded ring part (22) and pulling the handle part (23), and the used inner membrane (20) can be discarded and a new inner membrane (20) can be replaced and used again. Through this, the inconvenience of having to wash the menstrual cup every time menstrual blood is discharged can be omitted, and the problem of vaginitis caused by exposure to bacteria can be prevented by washing the used inner membrane (20) and reusing it, and more clean management can be possible by replacing it with a new inner membrane (20). More specifically, the inner membrane (20) can be formed of a material that can be disposed of as general waste. For example, the inner membrane (20) can be formed of an eco-friendly silicone material. Through this, the user can immediately throw away the inner membrane (20) of the menstrual cup (1) of the present invention into a general trash can after using it, thereby eliminating the inconvenience.

[0046] Figure 3 is a step diagram showing the process of menstrual blood being discharged from a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Referring to Fig. 3, a menstrual cup (1) containing menstrual blood can be processed through the following process.

[0048] First, the menstrual cup (1) containing menstrual blood is taken out from the vagina through the handle (23) without getting blood on the hands, and then the handle (23) is slowly pulled to separate the part where the inner membrane (20) touches the inner surface of the menstrual cup body (10). Afterwards, the menstrual cup body (10) is pressed hard by hand to narrow the width of the inner membrane (20) close to the handle (23), so that the menstrual blood (B) contained therein can be squirted out. Through this process, the user can squirt menstrual blood from the menstrual cup (1) without getting menstrual blood on the hands, and after squirting, the inner membrane (20) is replaced, only the remaining residue remaining in the menstrual cup body (10) is rinsed out, and a new inner membrane is inserted, thereby making it easier to clean the menstrual cup (1).

[0049] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, the menstrual cup (1) may include a catch (101) and a catch (221).

[0051] The catch (101) may be formed by extending the rim of the menstrual cup body (10). For example, the catch (101) may be a thin silicone film that extends by rotating the upper rim of the menstrual cup body (10) 180 degrees outward.

[0052] The hook (221) can be formed at an angle from the hook (22) of the inner membrane (20) and hooked to the hook portion (101). The hook (221) can be a thin silicone film that extends inwardly from the hook portion (22) by rotating 180 degrees.

[0053] Through this, the catch (221) can be caught on the catch (101) and inserted between the catch (101) and the menstrual cup body (10), thereby making the connection between the inner membrane (20) and the menstrual cup body (10) more secure, and when the menstrual cup (1) is inserted into the vagina and used, an accident in which the connection between the inner membrane (20) and the menstrual cup body (10) becomes loose, causing menstrual blood (B) to leak or the inner membrane (20) to come off from the menstrual cup body (10) can be prevented.

[0054] More specifically, the hook (101) can be positioned 0.5 to 1.0 mm apart from the outer surface of the menstrual cup body (10) by a silicone membrane that extends 180 degrees outward from the upper edge of the menstrual cup body (10), and the hook (221) can be positioned 0.3 to 0.8 mm apart from the inner surface of the ring (22) by a silicone membrane that extends 180 degrees inward from the ring (22). Through this, the hook (101) can be forcibly fitted into the hook (221) to make the connection more solid, and when the handle (23) is pulled to take out the menstrual cup (1) from inside the vagina, the inner membrane (20) is pulled by the handle (23), but at this time, the force to maintain a vacuum state is stronger than the bonding force between the inner membrane (20) and the menstrual cup body (10), so only the inner membrane (20) is pulled, preventing an accident in which the menstrual cup body (10) does not come out.

[0055] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 5, the inner membrane (20) may include a handle portion (23), a discharge portion (24), a stopper portion (25), and a handle strap (26).

[0057] The handle portion (23) may be formed in the opposite direction of the discharge portion (24). For example, the handle portion (23) may be formed at the lower end of the plug portion (25) and may be in the form of a circular rod protruding in the opposite direction of the discharge portion (24). This allows the user to more conveniently hold the handle with their hand and more easily remove the plug portion (25) from the discharge portion (24).

[0058] The discharge portion (24) is connected to the inner membrane (20) or the menstrual cup body (10) and menstrual blood (B) can be discharged. For example, the discharge portion (24) is connected to the lower part of the inner membrane (20) or the lower part of the menstrual cup body (10) and is formed in a circular shape so that menstrual blood (B) can be discharged through the discharge portion (24).

[0059] The plug (25) can be fitted into the discharge portion (24). For example, the plug (25) can be fitted into the discharge portion (24) by being formed to correspond to the perforated area of ​​the discharge portion (24).

[0060] The handle strap (26) may be a medium connecting the handle part (23) and the discharge part (24). For example, the handle strap (26) may be a medium connecting the handle part (23) and the discharge part (24) with a pair of silicone strings, one end of which is connected to the outer surface of the discharge part (24) and the other end of which is connected to the center of the handle part (23). Through this, the plug part (25) and the handle part (23) are always connected to the menstrual cup (1), so there is no risk of loss, and the plug part (25) can be maintained in a state where it is pulled out from the discharge part (24) even when the user is not holding it. As a result, the menstrual blood can be discharged by simply pulling the handle part (23) to pull the plug part (25) out from the discharge part (24) of the menstrual cup (1) containing menstrual blood, so that the user can discharge the menstrual blood more cleanly and neatly while wearing the menstrual cup. In addition, menstrual blood discharge can be made easier by pressing the discharge portion (24) by hand to allow air to pass through the internal compartment of the menstrual cup (1) which is in a vacuum state.

[0061] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 6, the plug (25) may include a connecting stem (27).

[0063] The connecting stem (27) may have one end connected to the inner surface of the inner membrane (20) and the other end connected to the plug (25). For example, the connecting stem (27) may be a silicone line connected to the inner surface of the inner membrane (20) and the other end connected to the top of the plug (25). Through this, the plug (25) is always connected to the menstrual cup (1), so there is no risk of losing the plug (25) and the handle (23), and even if the user does not hold it or maintain a separate state, the plug (25) can be maintained in a state where it is not inserted into the discharge portion (24). More specifically, when the user pulls the plug (25) when using the menstrual cup (1), the menstrual cup (1) can be transformed into a shape that is easy to put into the vagina by folding the top of the menstrual cup body (10), making it easier to wear, and the plug (25) can be passed through the discharge portion (24) so ​​that the connecting stem (27) can be taken out of the menstrual cup (1) without passing through the discharge portion (24), so that when washing the inner membrane (20), there is no inconvenience in separating it from the menstrual cup body (10), making washing and management cleaner and more hygienic.

[0064] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Figure 6.

[0065] Referring to Fig. 7, the discharge portion (24) may include a detachment prevention groove (24a).

[0066] The anti-separation groove (24a) may be formed on the inner surface of the discharge portion (24). For example, the anti-separation groove (24a) may be formed as a convexly dug groove on the inner surface of the discharge portion (24).

[0067] The plug (25) may include a detachment prevention protrusion (25a).

[0068] The anti-separation protrusion (25a) is formed to protrude from the outer surface of the plug portion (25) and can be fitted into the anti-separation groove (24a). For example, the anti-separation protrusion (25a) is formed to protrude concavely from the outer surface of the plug portion (25) and can be fitted into the anti-separation groove (24a).

[0069] Through this, the connection between the discharge portion (24) and the plug portion (25) can be made more solid, and even when wearing the menstrual cup (1) and being active, the connection is not loosened due to impact or vibration, preventing the plug portion (25) from being detached from the discharge portion (24), thereby preventing menstrual blood from leaking.

[0070] Figure 8 is a diagram showing a state in which a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention is folded for wearing.

[0071] Referring to Fig. 8, when the plug part (25) or the handle part (23) is pulled, the connecting stem (27) is pulled, and the upper part of the inner membrane (20) connected to the connecting stem (27) can be folded. For example, when the plug part (25) is pulled while holding the menstrual cup body (10) to wear the menstrual cup (1), the connecting stem (27) connected to the inner surface of the inner membrane (20) is pulled, and the menstrual cup body (10) and the inner membrane (20) can be folded. If the pulling continues thereafter, the menstrual cup (1) can be folded into a shape suitable for introduction into the vaginal opening, and when the plug part (25) is released after insertion, the elastic menstrual cup body (10) and the inner membrane (20) can be spread out to return to their original shape, and can be stably positioned in the vagina. Through this, the user can wear the menstrual cup (1) more easily and conveniently through the plug (25) and connecting stem (27).

[0072] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 9, the detachable menstrual cup (28) may include an upper portion (281), a lower portion (282), a handle (283), an upper and lower connecting stem (284), and a grip groove (285).

[0074] The upper part (281) may be hollow and have a groove formed on one side of the inner surface. For example, the upper part (281) may be hollow and have a fine groove formed in the shape of a coil on one side of the inner surface.

[0075] The lower part (282) may be combined with the groove of the upper part (281) and a handle (283) may be formed. For example, the lower part (282) may have a coil-shaped protrusion formed on one side corresponding to the groove of the upper part (281), and a handle (283) may be formed on the other side. Through this, the upper part (281) and the lower part (282) may be combined by turning, so that the detachable menstrual cup (28) can prevent menstrual blood from leaking.

[0076] The upper and lower connecting stems (284) can have one end connected to the inner surface of the upper part (281) and the other end connected to the inner surface of the lower part (282). For example, the upper and lower connecting stems (284) can be made of silicone material, which has one end connected to the inner surface of the upper part (281) and the other end connected to the inner surface of the lower part (282). Through this, in a detachable menstrual cup (28) consisting of an upper part (281) and a lower part (282), the upper part (281) or the lower part (282) can not be lost, and when the handle (283) of the detachable menstrual cup (28) being worn is pulled, even if the upper part (281) and the lower part (282) are connected by a groove and a protrusion, more force can be applied through the upper and lower connecting stems (284), thereby preventing an accident in which only the lower part (282) is discharged from the vagina.

[0077] The grip groove (285) may be a concave groove formed in the lower part (282). For example, the grip groove (285) may be a concave groove formed near the middle of the lower part (282). Through this, the detachable menstrual cup (28) can be held more conveniently by inserting a finger into the grip groove (285). More specifically, a concave internal compartment is formed in the lower part (282) where the grip groove (285) is formed, and a menstrual blood absorbent, cotton, an absorbent for a tampon, cotton pulp, a super absorbent polymer (SAP), absorbent paper, etc. can be placed in this internal compartment, thereby more securely storing the menstrual blood inside the menstrual cup. In addition, the inside of the lower part (282) is concavely protruded due to the grip home (285), so that the situation in which menstrual blood absorbent, cotton, tampon absorbent, cotton pulp, super absorbent polymer (SAP), absorbent paper, polymer fiber nonwoven fabric, etc. are detached or come out of the menstrual cup and remain in the vagina can be more reliably prevented.

[0078] You can hold the grip home (285) and turn the menstrual cup (1) to separate the upper and lower parts, then take out only the lower part, remove the absorbent that has absorbed menstrual blood, replace it with a new absorbent, insert it, and turn the lower part to connect it to the upper part. By simply inserting it upwards, you can easily reinsert the menstrual cup (1) without taking it out, such as in a public restroom, and prevent blood from getting on your hands due to the absorbent, and you can replace it more cleanly in an external place such as a public place without blood splashing around.

[0079] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to Fig. 10, the discharge portion (24) may include a protruding inlet path (24b) and a rotating fitting groove (24c).

[0081] The protrusion inlet (24b) is formed at the end of the discharge portion (24) so ​​that the insertion projection (25b) can be introduced. For example, the protrusion inlet (24b) is formed at the end of the discharge portion (24) and penetrates into a square cross-section so that the insertion projection (25b) can be introduced.

[0082] The rotating fitting groove (24c) may be a groove formed in a circumferential direction so that it is connected to the projection inlet channel (24b) and the fitting projection (25b) can be fitted while rotating. For example, the rotating fitting groove (24c) has a square cross-section that penetrates the end of the projection inlet channel (24b) and is formed in a circumferential direction so that the fitting projection (25b) can be fitted while rotating.

[0083] Through this, the insertion projection (25b) is introduced along the insertion inlet path (24b), and the plug part (25) rotates so that the insertion projection (25b) rotates around the plug part (25) and can be introduced by rotating along the rotational insertion groove (24c), thereby allowing the plug part (25) to be more firmly connected to the discharge part (24), and accidents in which the plug part (25) is detached from the discharge part (24) due to strenuous activity or friction and vibration while wearing the menstrual cup can be prevented, so that blood does not leak and free activities and exercise are possible even during the menstrual period.

[0084] The plug (25) may include a fitting projection (25b).

[0085] The insertion projection (25b) may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the plug portion (25), and may be one or more. For example, two insertion projections (25b) may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the plug portion (25), and may be formed smoothly without an angle at the corners. Through this, the insertion projection (25b) can be more easily introduced into the insertion inlet (24b), so that the user can insert the insertion projection (25b) into the rotary insertion groove (24c) without any inconvenience.

[0086] The handle strap (26) can be formed as one piece, with one end connected to the discharge portion (24) and the other end connected to the plug portion (25). This makes it easier and smoother to rotate the plug portion (25) by inserting it into the discharge portion (24), and prevents accidents in which the plug portion (25) is lost during storage or use.

[0087] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to Fig. 11, the menstrual cup (1) may include a menstrual cup body (10) and an inner membrane (20).

[0089] The menstrual cup body (10) can accommodate menstrual blood. For example, the menstrual cup body (10) can be formed in a circular funnel shape so that menstrual blood can be accommodated inside.

[0090] The menstrual cup body (10) may be made of medical silicone or natural rubber. This allows for use for 4 to 12 hours and can be washed and reused, making it environmentally friendly and economical.

[0091] The menstrual cup body (10) may include a discharge portion (24).

[0092] The discharge portion (24) is formed on the other side of the menstrual cup body (10) and can be formed by penetrating the menstrual cup body (10) to discharge menstrual blood. Through this, menstrual blood can easily flow out through the discharge portion (24).

[0093] The inner membrane (20) is connected to one side of the menstrual cup body (10) and can be accommodated inside the menstrual cup body (10) to form an inclined surface and can be exposed to the outside of the menstrual cup body (10). For example, the inner membrane (20) can be accommodated inside the menstrual cup body (10) by pulling the handle part (23) through the discharge part (24), and the inner membrane (20) can be exposed to the outside of the menstrual cup body (10) by pulling the handle part (23) in the direction of the inlet where menstrual blood is accommodated. Through this, the empty space between the menstrual cup body (10) and the inner membrane (20) can be cleaned more easily, so that the menstrual cup (1) can be used more cleanly and neatly. In addition, since menstrual blood additionally flows into the empty space between the menstrual cup body (10) and the inner membrane (20), more menstrual blood can be accommodated in the menstrual cup (1), thereby preventing an accident in which menstrual blood overflows and leaks out when the user cannot empty the menstrual cup for an unavoidable reason. In addition, even when a situation arises in which the user is active outside for a long time, the menstrual cup (1) of the present invention can be used for a longer period of time.

[0094] The inner membrane (20) may be hollow and have an inclined surface. For example, the inner membrane (20) may be hollow and have an angled surface, with one side formed as a large circle and the other side formed as a smaller circle. This allows menstrual blood to flow more smoothly into the menstrual cup (1) along the inclined surface.

[0095] The inner lining (20) may include a handle portion (23) and a connecting stem (27).

[0096] The handle (23) may be formed at the end of the connecting stem (27) and may be shaped to allow a finger to be caught. For example, the handle (23) may be formed at the end of the connecting stem (27) in an oval shape or the like, with the center thereof penetrating through to allow a finger to be caught. This allows the user to more easily expose the inner membrane (20) to the outside of the menstrual cup body (10) by using the handle (23), or to conveniently fold the menstrual cup (1) and insert it into the vagina.

[0097] The width of the handle portion (24) can be formed wider than the width of the discharge portion (24). This can prevent an accident in which the handle portion (24) enters the inside of the menstrual cup (1) through the discharge portion (24) when wearing the menstrual cup, making it impossible to remove the menstrual cup (1).

[0098] The connecting stem (27) can be a long line formed on the surface where the inner membrane (20) does not come into contact with the menstrual cup body (10).

[0099] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of Fig. 10.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 12, the connecting stem (27) may include a first plug portion (271) and a second plug portion (272).

[0101] The first plug part (271) is formed at the position closest to the inner membrane (20) in the connecting stem (27) and can be fitted into the discharge part (24) corresponding to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24). For example, the first plug part (271) is formed at the uppermost part of the connecting stem (27) and has a cross-sectional area corresponding to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24) and can be formed in a spherical shape. Through this, the first plug part (271) can be fitted into the discharge part (24) only when the handle part (23) is pulled, and when the handle part (23) is pulled, the menstrual cup body (1) is folded and deformed into a shape that can be easily introduced into the vaginal opening, but if it is not fixed in that shape and is inconvenient, the first plug part (271) can be fixed in a state of being fitted into the discharge part (24) so ​​that it can be introduced into the vaginal opening, making the process of wearing the menstrual cup more convenient and simple.

[0102] The second plug part (272) is positioned at a certain distance from the first plug part (271) on the connecting stem (27) and can be fitted into the discharge part (24) so ​​as to correspond to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24).

[0103] The second plug part (272) may include a first plug ball (272a), a connecting column (272b), and a second plug ball (272c). For example, the first plug ball (272a), the connecting column (272b), and the second plug ball (272c) may be connected to each other and may have a shape similar to a bone.

[0104] The first plug ball (272a) is formed at the closest position to the first plug part (271) and can be fitted into the discharge part (24) in a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24). For example, the first plug ball (272a) may be spherical in shape with an area equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24).

[0105] The second plug ball (272c) is formed at the furthest position from the first plug part (25) and can be fitted into the discharge part (24) so ​​as to correspond to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24). For example, the second plug ball (272c) can be spherical in shape with an area equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge part (24).

[0106] The connecting column (272b) is connected to the first plug ball (272a) and the second plug ball (272c) and has a cross-sectional area smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge portion (24) so ​​that it can be loosely fitted to the discharge portion (24). For example, the connecting column (272b) may be in the shape of a cylinder that is connected to the first plug ball (272a) and the second plug ball (272c) and has a cross-sectional area smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge portion (24).

[0107] Through this, the user can pull the handle (23) to insert the first plug ball (272a) or the second plug ball (272c) into the discharge portion (24) to change the shape of the menstrual cup (1) as desired and then fix it so that it can be inserted into the vagina, thereby making the wearing process more convenient and easier by wearing the menstrual cup in a fixed shape during the process of wearing the menstrual cup.

[0108] In addition, the user can discharge the menstrual blood appropriately by pulling only the handle part (23) so that the connecting column (272b) is loosely fitted to the discharge part (24) without having to frequently take out the menstrual cup (1) while wearing the menstrual cup (1) to drain the menstrual blood from the menstrual cup (1) that has received the menstrual blood. Consequently, the user can discharge the menstrual blood without the blood being discharged rapidly and splattering everywhere, and can discharge the menstrual blood without directly touching the blood, so that the use of the menstrual cup (1) can be more convenient and clean.

[0109] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the handle portion being pulled and folded as seen from B-B' of Fig. 10.

[0110] Referring to Fig. 13, by pulling the handle part (23), the first plug part (271) can be inserted into the discharge part (24) to fix the menstrual cup (1) so that it is folded to the greatest extent, so that even users with narrow vaginal openings can easily wear the menstrual cup. In addition, the user can fix the menstrual cup (1) in a three-stage folded state by inserting the first plug part (271) or the second plug part (272) into the discharge part as needed. As a result, the user can wear the menstrual cup more conveniently and without discomfort or pain.

[0111] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a menstrual cup according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Referring to Fig. 14, the inner membrane (20) is connected to the upper portion of the menstrual cup body (10) and can be folded and received or unfolded into an internal compartment of the menstrual cup body (10). For example, one edge portion of the inner membrane (20) is connected to the upper edge portion of the menstrual cup body (10) and can be folded or unfolded around the edge portion.

[0113] The connecting stem (27) is formed on the opposite surface of the inner membrane (20) that comes into contact with the menstrual cup body (10) and can protrude outward.

[0114] The connecting stem (27) may become thicker as it gets closer to the inner membrane (20) and thinner as it gets farther from the inner membrane (20). For example, the connecting stem (27) may become thicker as it gets closer to the inner membrane (20) and thinner as it gets farther from the inner membrane (20), so that the connecting stem (27) may have a curved shape. In addition, the connecting stem (27) may become thicker as it gets closer to the inner membrane (20) and thinner as it gets farther from the inner membrane (20), so that when the handle (23) is pulled, more force is applied when folding the inner membrane (20) and the menstrual cup body (10), so that the menstrual cup (1) can be folded easily, and when the handle (23) is released, it receives elasticity so that the menstrual cup (1) can unfold more smoothly and be stably positioned in the vagina. In addition, by slightly pulling the handle part (23) through the thinnest part close to the plug part (25) and pulling the plug part (25) out, a part of the menstrual cup (1) can be removed without removing it in an external environment such as a public restroom, preventing blood from getting on your hands or splashing onto the wall or floor, and allowing for clean discharge of blood.

[0115] A plug portion (25) and a handle portion (23) may be formed at the end of the connecting stem (27). For example, a plug portion (25) and a handle portion (23) may be formed sequentially at the end of the connecting stem (27).

[0116] The plug (25) may be spherical. For example, the plug (25) may be spherical in shape with a central cross-sectional area equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge portion (24). In this way, the plug (25) can be fitted into the discharge portion (24), and menstrual blood leakage can be prevented when the menstrual cup (1) is inserted into the vagina and used.

[0117] The plug (25) may be in the shape of a water droplet. For example, the cross-section of the plug (25) may gradually widen from the top to the bottom, and then rapidly decrease at the bottom. This allows for a smooth and natural fit, rather than a stiff fit, when fitted into the discharge port (24).

[0118] The handle portion (23) may be formed by two thin lines extending and connecting their ends. For example, the handle portion (23) may be formed in the shape of a leaf, with two thin lines extending and connecting their ends, so that a finger can fit through it.

[0119] Through this, the connecting stem (27) can receive a good force when pulling, and since the connecting stem (27) is directly connected to the inner membrane (20), it can receive more force when pulling the handle part (23), and the process of using the menstrual cup (1) is made easier by a simple action of folding the inner membrane (20) and passing the handle part (23) through the discharge part (24), making it convenient to put on and preventing menstrual blood from leaking.

[0120] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily propose other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components within the scope of the same spirit, but this will also be considered to fall within the spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. Menstrual cup body that receives menstrual blood; and A menstrual cup that is accommodated inside the menstrual cup body and includes a ring portion that hangs over the rim of the menstrual cup body and a handle portion formed at the bottom, and includes an inner membrane that allows the ring portion to fold or unfold.

2. In paragraph 1, A hook formed by extending the rim of the above menstrual cup body; and A menstrual cup including a hook formed at an angle on the ring portion of the inner membrane and hooked to the hook portion.

3. In paragraph 1, A discharge portion connected to the inner wall and through which the menstrual blood is discharged; and A menstrual cup including a stopper portion fitted into the above discharge portion.

4. In paragraph 3, A menstrual cup comprising a connecting stem, one end of which is connected to the inner surface of the inner membrane and the other end of which is connected to the plug portion.

5. In paragraph 3, A detachment prevention groove formed on the inner surface of the above discharge portion; and A menstrual cup including a detachment prevention projection formed by protruding from the outer surface of the plug portion and fitted into the detachment prevention groove.

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