Menstrual Cup

A menstrual cup is a soft, flexible cup made of silicone or latex that rests internally to collect menstrual flow, rather than absorbing it like a tampon. When inserted correctly, it provides a comfortable and leak-free fit. Most types of menstrual cups only need changing every 12 hours, making them one of the most convenient feminine care options on the market. Most menstrual cups are also reusable for multiple cycles for eco-friendly and cost-effective period care. They come in various sizes and capacities, making it easy to find the best menstrual cup for your body. 

Menstrual cups are positioned vaginally like a tampon and provide a comfortable, unobtrusive fit. The average capacity of a menstrual cup is 20ml, greater than the 5ml average capacity of a pad and 10 to 12ml capacity of a tampon. Period cups collect blood rather than absorb it, allowing for longer wear times. Considering total blood loss for the average menstrual cycle is 30ml to 40ml, most users only need to change their menstrual cups twice a day. Some menstrual cups are designed with a higher capacity for heavy periods. 

To easily insert a menstrual cup, the flexible cup must be folded for insertion and must fully open when placed for a leak-free seal around the edges. To accomplish this, there are several menstrual cup folds to try, including the C-fold, 7-fold and punch-down fold. Although intimidating at first, inserting a menstrual cup using these folds is simple once you get the hang of it. Most users attempt several fold types and default to the one that works best for their body. Disposable menstrual discs, which insert similarly to a birth control ring, are also available. 

Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina during a woman’s period and work by collecting rather than absorbing blood. Most manufacturers say that you can leave the cup in for up to 12 hours. When the cup is inserted properly, it should form a seal that prevents leakage. Once the cup is full, you can simply empty it, wash it out, and reinsert it. While the convenience and monetary savings of not having to go through multiple period products like pads and tampons every month can be a great benefit, it is important to know that menstrual cups can sometimes be messy to empty out and clean. It is very important to properly clean your menstrual cup between uses and sanitize it in between period cycles, so if you are squeamish or not comfortable cleaning your cup regularly, a menstrual cup may not be right for you.

There is no one-size-fits-all best menstrual cup. Instead, there are many menstrual cup brands and styles to choose from. Some popular menstrual cup brands include: Diva Cup, Lily Cup, Flex Cup, and a disposable menstrual cup called Softcup. Each menstrual cup is slightly different, just like each woman’s anatomy, so you may need to try a few brands before you find that perfect fit. Most brands of menstrual cups offer two sizes to choose from, usually depending on whether you have given birth vaginally or not. Remember – the best menstrual cup for you is the one that fits comfortably, is easy to insert and remove, and does not leak. 

Just like with tampons, when used correctly menstrual cups are generally safe. However, it is important to know that in contrast to popular belief, recent studies have shown that menstrual cups do carry a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), just like tampons. You can cut down on your risk by following proper usage recommendations like not wearing the cup for longer than the maximum recommended timeframe. For most cups, the limit is 12 hours, but you should refer to your menstrual cup’s instructions to be sure. Experts suggest sterilizing the cup in boiling water in between each use instead of just once a month in between your period cycles; it can be helpful to purchase two cups so you can wear the clean one while you sanitize the other. You should also be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before inserting the cup. If you have questions or concerns, you should talk to your doctor.

The medical-grade silicone used in most menstrual cups can last for up to 10 years, though the thickness of each brand's cup varies, altering the lifespan of your period cup. Some menstrual cups are prone to staining as well, which, despite not decreasing the efficacy of its protection against leakage, can be an aesthetic deterrent from using one for a prolonged length of time.

Empty and clean your menstrual cup twice a day. With clean hands, use the stem to assist in reaching the cup, and pinch to break the seal. Gently pull to remove, then empty the contents into the toilet. Some cups include a specially designed stem to help break the seal easily. Before reinserting, clean the cup with soap and water or a cup wash product. At the end of your cycle, sanitize your menstrual cup in boiling water per the manufacturer’s directions. Most reusable cups last 6 months to 10 years with proper care.