All about Menstrual Cups

Everything you wanted to know

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What’s the difference between menstrual cups?

We are really lucky that there are so many great brands out there to choose from now. It means there are cups ideally suited if you are sporty, or if you have a low cervix, or if you want to use it during sex. Each cup offered will have its own unique description which outlines why we have chosen to include this on the website, and who it is best suited for.

What size menstrual cup do I buy?

To find out what size menstrual cup to buy, you will need to know (or find out) the size of your cervix. The easiest way to identify the right size cup for you is to take our instant online questionaire which walks you through the questions we get most frequently, and based on your answers will provide a collection of product reccomendations that suit your flow and body.

Please keep in mind that the body changes whilst menstruating: the cervix can move and at times you might need two sizes of menstrual cups to work with your active cervix! 

Before your period your uterus usually relaxes and drops your cervix down lower into your vagina, the entrance to the cervix (os) opens and the blood flows into the vagina.

How do I find my cervix size?

We can point you in the direction of some great video content that helps explain this further but one solution to this question is to insert your finger into your vagina. If your entire finger goes in and only just touches your cervix you most likely have an 'average' size cervix, if your finger goes in and you cannot feel it (or you have to reach for it) you probably have a high cervix, and if you feel your cervix before your full finger is inserted you most likely have a low cervix. If you have prolapse you probably know about it, but if you are unsure on any of this you're welcome to give us a call on 0800 692 876 anytime between 9am - 2.30pm Monday to Friday!

How do I insert my menstrual cup?

It is super important to wash your hands with soap before and after you use any menstrual product.

To make the cup easier to insert, you can rinse it under warm water. When the cup is warm, it’s easier to manipulate.

To insert your cup, make sure you’re relaxed. Hold your cup in its folded position with your index finger and your thumb. Gently insert it into your vagina. Your cup will pop open. To make sure that it has popped open, feel the base of your cup and make sure that it’s rounded, soft and bouncy. If the cup hasn’t popped open, twist it to make it pop open properly or remove it and try again.

Check out our guide on menstrual cup folds here.

How do I remove my menstrual cup?

Pull the cup not the stem...!!!

Once your cup is in, it’s recommended that you change it every 4 to 8 hours, depending on your flow. Never leave a menstrual product in your body for more than 8 hours as bacteria can build up.

To remove your cup, get into a comfortable sitting or standing position. Grab the stem and gently wriggle it until you can grab the base of the cup. Pinch the cup at the base to break the seal and gently remove it from your vagina, making sure that it’s upright the entire time. If the cup is tilted in any way, spillage can occur!

How do I care for a menstrual cup?

Empty your cup and then rinse it or wash it with gentle soap or menstrual cup wash before inserting it again. When washing your cup, you can scrub it with your fingers or a sterilised toothbrush. If you do not have access to a private basin where you can clean your cup, make sure that you bring a bottle of water into the bathroom with you so that you can rinse your cup over the toilet.

At the end of your period, sterilize your cup again. Place it out in the sun to dry then pop it into its storage bag or container.

Will a menstrual cup 'stretch out' my vagina?

No, if you are concerned about the comfort of your purchase, choose a medical grade silicone menstrual cup.

Can a menstrual cup get lost inside me?

Nope... and most cups have a handy stem for you to easily find and remove it.

Can a menstrual cup be too big for my vagina?

Yes, while all menstrual cups will fit inside you, you can select one that is too large for your body. Read on below for help with sizing, or take our instant online questionaire.

Can I use a menstrual cup if I'm a virgin?

Yes.

How long can I safely wear a menstrual cup?

Never leave a menstrual product in your body for more than 8 hours as bacteria can build up.

Can I pee and poo while wearing a menstrual cup?

Yes.

Can I wear a menstrual cup if my period is light?

Yes.

What sports can I do while wearing a menstrual cup?

All of them.

Can I have sex wearing a menstrual cup?

Yes, but not all cups - The Ziggy Cup is the only cup that is suitable for use during sex.

Is a menstrual cup safe to sleep in?

Yes, although if you are going to sleep for longer than 8 hours we suggest period underwear would be a better option.

Are menstrual cups reliable for heavy periods?

Yes! The BEST!!

How long will my menstrual cup last?

A MyCup lasts for up to 10 years. Check each product listing to see how long each product last for.

Do menstrual cups cause Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Anything that you leave inside your body for longer than 8 hours can cause TSS. Our reccommendation is to never leave a menstrual product in your body for more than 8 hours as bacteria can build up.

Do I have to sterilise between every change?

You dont have to steralise it between use, you can use it, empty it, rinse and re-insert. You should however, definitely sterilise it between every period.

Can a menstrual cup be used as contraception or STD protection?

NO.

Can I use a menstrual cup for pregnancy spotting / discharge?

No.

Can a menstrual cup be used for heavy post partum bleeding?

No.

How do I empty my cup safely out and about?

Choose a bathroom that has a basin in the cubicle if you are out and about. Empty, rinse & reinsert.

Why is my menstrual cup leaking?

If your cup is leaking, you likely need a larger cup size. Or you need to empty it more regularly. Your body does change, so if you notice a change in the way your menstrual cup is working for your body give us a call on 0800 692 876 anytime between 9am-2.30pm Monday to Friday and we can discuss the best solution for you.

Is it normal to experience discomfort while using a cup?

No.

Can you swim in with a menstrual cup in?

Yes!

Will the contents of my cup spill if I lie down?

No.

Will the cup stain? How can I prevent / get rid of this?

You can use natural cleaning solution between cycles to keep your cup stain free and sqeaky clean. Check out our cleaning accessories here.

What's the best way to store my cup in between periods?

Keep it in a clean plastic container or linen bag.

What is the difference between TPE & Silicone?

Silicone is the single most compatable product for use inside the human body. To answer this question fully we have broken down both options for you here.