What is a menstrual cup? Advantages and disadvantages

What is a menstrual cup?

A menstrual cup is a small, flexible, reusable sanitary device that, when placed in the vagina during the period, collects menstrual fluids .

There are two types of cups on the market. The most common is the vaginal cup . However, it is worth knowing that there are also cups that, like the contraceptive ring, are placed on the cervix .

Menstrual cups are collectors , the capacity of which depends on the size and ranges from 10 to 38 milliliters. This is up to 3 times more liquid than a single tampon or a large pad can hold!

A menstrual cup is a hygiene product that, with proper care, will last for many years. It is therefore an ecological solution and an alternative to pads and tampons.

Intrigued? Read on to find out more!

What does a menstrual cup look like?

The menstrual cup looks like a small bell or a glass . Some people think it is more like a cap or… a small cup. The appearance of the menstrual cup corresponds to the anatomical size and shape of the vagina, so it easily adapts to it.

There are holes at the upper edge that are responsible for regulating the vacuum generated by the menstrual cup, so that it does not move around in the body.

It is finished with a pin or ring , which makes it easier to apply, manipulate and remove from the inside. The menstrual cup is flexible . Elasticity and mechanical memory restore its original shape, so you don't have to worry about deformation.

What is a menstrual cup made of?

The menstrual cup is made of non-toxic and anti-allergic materials , most often medical silicone , but on the market there are also menstrual cups made of thermoplastic TPE, rubber or rubber.

When purchasing a cup, make sure that its material is certified and intended for internal use .

What should you remember before inserting the cup?

Before inserting the menstrual cup, remember, above all, to maintain the hygiene of both the cup and yourself.

• Washing or disinfecting your hands is the basis on which further cup-related activities are based.
• Disinfect the cup as well. After a few weeks of rest, bacteria may have appeared on it, which are not welcome in your vulva's environment. You can boil it in boiling water or use other ideas described by us in the article " How to clean a menstrual cup? ".
• Choose your favorite position , i.e. the one in which it will be most convenient for you to reach the vaginal openings. At the same time, the pelvis should be open and the Kegel muscles relaxed. We recommend resting one leg on a platform (toilet, bathtub, stool) or squatting. However, you know your body best, so experiment to find the perfect position for you!
• Improve the application by adding some slip! Some people find it enough when the cup is slightly moistened with water. If you need more support, smear its edges with lubricant or our intimate gel . Smooth entry guaranteed!

How to put on a menstrual cup?

To properly insert a menstrual cup, you need to have the right technique. Learn the rules that will make the application process easier for you:

• When using the flexible material of the cup, fold it along its vertical axis before inserting it into the vagina . There are several ways to fold it, including:

- fold the cup in half, this way its ring will form the shape of the letter C;

- fold the cup to form an S shape;

- use your index finger to press the edge on one side towards the center of the cup so that the edge on the other side forms a small C;

- another shape of your choice that will work well in entering the gates of your vulva.

• Place the suitably rolled cup inside the vagina . When it reaches a height where your fingers can no longer move, the cup should unfold on its own. The holes are responsible for sucking it in, creating a slight vacuum and keeping the cup ready.
• Make sure the cup is unfolded by checking its circumference with your finger. It should be snug against the vaginal walls and immobile. If it is still not unfolded or moves easily, gently twist it to re-suction. Use your pelvic floor muscles to help . Squeezing the cup inside can help you better fit it to the vaginal walls.
• Menstrual cups inserted correctly should be undetectable . If you feel discomfort or pinching or have the impression that the cup is about to fall out - something went wrong. It is possible that it opened too low or did not open at all. In that case, you should reinsert it.

As you can see, inserting a menstrual cup is not a complex physical process, although the comfort of inserting the cup correctly will take your period to another dimension! Despite unsuccessful attempts, it is worth making the effort and do not be discouraged from learning how to insert a menstrual cup.

Emptying the menstrual cup

Emptying a menstrual cup is usually technically easier than inserting it, but it still requires remembering a few basic rules:

1. First and most important: hygiene ! Replace the cup with clean hands!
2. Take a comfortable position (for example, the same as for the application) and try to relax your pelvic floor muscles.
3. Insert two fingers into your vagina and grab the bottom of the menstrual cup.
4. Squeeze it with your fingers so that it is sucked away from the vaginal walls . You will feel, and maybe even hear, the vacuum disappearing and the cup starting to move.
5. Pull the menstrual cup vertically, slowly and gently rocking it towards the vaginal exit .
6. When only the widest part of the cup, i.e. its edges, remains in the body, try to gently fold them together with your fingers . Remember, however, that the cup may be full of menstrual fluid, so do it very carefully, slowly and preferably over a toilet.
7. Once the cup has been removed from your body, pour its contents down the toilet or drain and rinse it under running water before re-inserting it .

You can read more about removing the cup in our article here , and you can learn more about replacing the cup in different conditions here .

How often should you empty your menstrual cup?

The frequency of emptying the menstrual cup depends on the intensity of the bleeding . It is possible that in the first few days it will be necessary to replace it even every 3 hours , but in the following days you can replace the cup every 12 hours! Try not to exceed this limit, because this is the maximum time the cup can be in the body, for hygiene and health reasons.

By getting to know your body and the intensity of your menstrual bleeding better, after just a few cycles with a menstrual cup you will know how often it is best to empty it.

The Life Cycle of Menstrual Cups

The life cycle of menstrual cups – compared to disposable hygiene products – is much longer. However, to achieve the best possible results, conscious care and proper storage of the menstrual cup are necessary. The time of use depends on the material and the individual manufacturer's recommendations. Some menstrual cups can be used for 2 years, and some for up to 10 years!

When should you throw away your menstrual cup?

• Pay attention to the expiration date and stick to the manufacturers' claims. They know best when a given material loses its properties and leads to problems. In the case of a product that is placed in the body, following the guidelines is an absolute must!
• If there are any changes to the surface or structure of the cup , don't risk it. Even a slightly noticeable scratch or slight damage to the material poses a real threat to your health. Throw away the menstrual cup if you can't get rid of the unpleasant smell or color due to poor storage or hygiene.
• When you feel that the cup size is no longer right for you , replace it with a more fitting one. Using a product that is smaller than it should be can result in more frequent leakage or even falling out of the body. On the other hand, a size that is too large will cause discomfort and unnatural vaginal stretching.

If you notice any other disturbing changes to the cup that make it difficult to use it comfortably and safely, it should be thrown in the bin.

What container should I throw my menstrual cup into?

Menstrual cups made of medical silicone should be placed in a mixed waste container , while those made of rubber or natural rubber should be disposed of in a plastic container.

Menstrual Cups vs. Tampons and Pads

Every person who menstruates is probably familiar with pads andtampons . They are often the first sanitary products that you encounter on your menstrual journey. Their simplicity and ease of use work well for the initial red adventures. They are reluctant to give up a bit of store space to cups, as if they saw them as real competition.

Do they have reasons for this? Decide for yourself!

Menstrual cup – advantages

Sit back and enjoy the read, which will tell you why a cup is better than pads and tampons, and what are the benefits of using menstrual cups.

Menstrual cup…

• is a collector , which means that it does not absorb mucus and menstrual fluids, but only collects them. Compared to pads and tampons, which are absorbents, you gain:

- Control of the amount of fluid and analysis of its loss . You can share this useful knowledge with your gynecologist to have a better picture of your menstrual cycle .

- No interference with your vaginal pH , which minimizes the risk of irritation and infection.

• is practically unnoticeable. The cup itself is placed in the vagina at such a height that you do not feel its presence in the body even during movement. As a result - compared to tampons and pads - it does not increase its volume under the influence of liquid, and you do not feel discomfort.
• there are no harmful chemicals. Disposable hygiene products are often bleached with dioxins that are harmful to the body. They are responsible for perfect whiteness, the impression of sterility and... the risk of diseases. The menstrual cup is safe and free from chemicals that can cause health problems, such as toxic shock syndrome, or cause allergies.
• It can collect more blood than pads or tampons , which is why it is recommended for users with heavy periods .

Did you know that you lose about 100 milliliters of menstrual fluid during your period? The volume of a menstrual cup (small size) is 18.5 milliliters .

• does not leak! How many times has a soaked pad or tampon given you a red decoration? With a well-fitted and attached cup, you will forget about surprises. This is the most leak-proof option among all hygiene products.
• you change (or rather empty) less often than pads or tampons! The frequency of emptying the cup depends on the intensity of the bleeding, but on average you do it every 4 to 8 hours. This is extremely useful, for example, when traveling.
• no smell! Proper hygiene and correct application means that oxygen does not get into the liquid collected in the menstrual cup. Therefore, there are no processes involving bacteria that cause an unpleasant smell.
• lasts up to 10 years! With a cup, you don't have to worry about stocking up on hygiene products every month. Taking proper care of the cup extends its life and allows you to spend many years together!
• is more economical! Yes, you read that right. You can spend less money on your period. Although the unit cost of a cup is many times higher than the cost of a pack of pads, over the years this calculation takes on a slightly different meaning.

One pack of pads (12 pieces) = 5% of the cost of one cup

One pack of tampons (16 pieces) = 7% of the cost of one cup

Buying a cup pays for itself after just a few months. It's a one-time expense that can last up to 10 years. Sounds good?

• is eco-friendly! Let's analyze:

1 period = 13 disposable products

1 year (13 cycles) = 169 disposable products

All cycles during one person's lifetime = 12,000 to 17,000 disposable products = 110 to 135 kg of waste

In addition to the burdensome volume of used pads and tampons, the environmental hazard is their material. Bleached cotton and rayon blends and plastic packaging and applicators are not biodegradable, and when stored, they are breeding grounds for many infectious microorganisms. For comparison:

1 period = 1 menstrual cup

1 year (13 cycles) = 1 menstrual cup

All cycles in one person's lifetime = 3 to 4 menstrual cups = 33 to 44 grams of environmentally safe waste

• allows you to safely do sports and… sex! A huge advantage of the cup appreciated by fans of an active lifestyle is the possibility of doing any type of sport, including water sports. Physical activity can also take place in… bed (or wherever you want). Although the cup is placed in the lower part of the vagina – so vaginal sex is out of the question – with a menstrual cup, your comfort increases, and the lack of smell and low risk of leakage give you the green light to other pleasures!
• is psychologically comfortable! Freedom, lack of feeling and "forgetting about menstruation" contribute to a better mental state. Thanks to the use of menstrual cups, the quality and standard of life during menstruation increases. Greater satisfaction also results from the feeling of control over menstruation and increased self-confidence!

Menstrual cup – disadvantages

Every stick has two ends, and the menstrual cup has its advantages and disadvantages. What are they?

• Rome wasn't built in a day. The same may be true for your application learning, and that's completely normal. Finding the right technique and "feel" doesn't come immediately. However, it's worth giving yourself (and the cup) a chance and not getting discouraged after a few failed attempts.

Get tips on how to properly insert a menstrual cup !

• The wrong size of menstrual cup. You choose a cup every few years, so its size should be adjusted to your body. Sometimes it is difficult to find the right one right away and only after another try do you find THE ONE. Additionally, due to physical changes related to childbirth, it is necessary to replace the cup sooner than the date indicated by the manufacturer.

Check out: How to choose the right size menstrual cup?

• Direct contact with yourself. In cup adventures, you are very close to your body. You directly touch the tissues and have contact with menstrual fluid. For some, menstrual blood on their hands can be insurmountable, which will definitely make using the cup more difficult.
• The problem with changing menstrual cups in public places. Menstrual cups are more demanding to change than tampons and pads. Hygiene and access to water can be a limitation in public toilets.
• Is a menstrual cup for virgins? Since the cup is placed in the lower part of the vagina, its effect on the hymen depends on its properties. A menstrual cup can make it more elastic or stretch it. Using a menstrual cup also depends largely on your personal beliefs and definition of virginity. In some cultures, placing anything in the vagina before engaging in sexual activity is not socially acceptable.

You can find more information about the hymen and menstrual cups in the article: " Menstrual cup and health ".

• The limitation in using a cup is improper hygiene. When using a menstrual cup, for your own good (because it's all about that) you have to be disciplined and remember to wash your hands before changing and applying it, as well as to clean it properly. If you know that you sometimes skip such aspects, for your own safety, reconsider using a cup.
• The menstrual cup can be a hindrance for IUD users. The gentle vacuum created by the cup and manipulation of the vagina can cause the IUD to move or even come out of the body.

Remember that you can always ask your gynecologist to shorten the threads of the IUD that protrude into the vagina from the cervical canal. This will reduce the risk of the IUD moving during manipulation of the cup.

You can learn more about the IUD in the article aboutcontraceptive methods .

Using a menstrual cup offers many possibilities during menstruation. A number of advantages speak in favor of trying this hygiene product, but remember to approach it with caution, and to be guided primarily by your health and comfort - both physical and mental.

Leaking cup? Read about how to fix it here .

If you have more questions or concerns, we answer them in the article here .

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AM van Eijk, G. Zulaika, M. Lenchner et al., Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability. A systematic review and meta-analysis , "Lancet Public Health" 2019, vol. 4, p. 376-393.
C. Howard, CL Rose, K. Trouton et al., FLOW (finding lasting options for women). Multicentre randomized controlled trial comparing tampons with menstrual cups , "Canadian Family Physician" 2011, vol. 57, p. 208-215.
P. Mohan, A. Yadav, CR Belardo, Money Spent Right – Menstrual Cup for Women's Empowerment , Oklahoma 2018.
J. Sundqvist, A cup of freedom? A study of the menstrual cup's impact on girls' capabilities , Madrid 2015, p. 37.