The Ultimate Guide to Menstrual Cups

Everything You Need to Know Before Making the Switch

If you're reading this, there's a good chance you're curious about menstrual cups—but maybe also a little nervous.

I completely understand, because I was exactly the same.

In fact, my very first menstrual cup sat untouched in my cupboard for almost six months. I had bought it with every intention of making the switch, but every time my period arrived, I found another reason to wait. It just seemed intimidating. What if I couldn't insert it? What if it got stuck? What if I did it wrong?

It wasn't until a close friend and my cousin kept encouraging me to give it a try that I finally decided to use it.

Looking back now, I often laugh at how much I had built it up in my mind. Like many first-time users, there was a learning curve, but once I became comfortable with it, I couldn't imagine going back to pads and tampons.

That's exactly why I created this guide.

I want to answer the questions I had when I first started, explain how menstrual cups really work, separate myths from facts, and help you feel confident enough to decide whether a menstrual cup is right for you.

Whether you're completely new to menstrual cups, you've recently bought one that's still sitting in its box, or you're simply wondering if they're worth all the hype, you're in the right place.

This guide brings together everything you need to know—from choosing the right menstrual cup and learning how to insert and remove it, to cleaning, troubleshooting, and answering the questions that almost every beginner has. My goal is to give you clear, evidence-based information in one place, so you can make an informed decision and feel supported every step of the way.

So, make yourself a cup of tea or coffee, get comfortable, and let's take the mystery out of menstrual cups together. You might just discover a more comfortable, convenient, and confident way to experience your period.

What You'll Learn in This Guide

Welcome! Whether you're simply curious about menstrual cups or you're ready to make the switch, this guide will walk you through every step of the journey.

Here's what we'll cover:

1. What Is a Menstrual Cup?

Learn what a menstrual cup is, what it's made from, how it works, and why millions of women around the world have made the switch.

2. How Does a Menstrual Cup Work?

Understand how a menstrual cup collects menstrual fluid, where it sits in your body, and why it can provide hours of comfortable, leak-resistant protection.

3. The Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup

Discover why menstrual cups are becoming an increasingly popular choice for comfort, convenience, cost savings, travel, exercise, swimming, and overnight protection.

4. Are Menstrual Cups Safe?

Explore the science behind menstrual cup safety, including medical-grade silicone, hygiene, Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), and who should speak to a healthcare professional before using one.

5. Choosing the Right Menstrual Cup

Find out how to choose the right size and understand the factors that influence the best fit for your body.

6. Getting Started

Learn the basics of inserting, removing, emptying, cleaning, and caring for your menstrual cup, with links to detailed step-by-step guides.

7. Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Feeling nervous is completely normal. We'll cover some of the most common challenges first-time users experience and share practical tips to help you overcome them.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the questions almost every beginner asks—from sleeping and swimming with a menstrual cup to whether it can get stuck or be used with an IUD.

9. Menstrual Cups vs Pads and Tampons

Compare the different period products to help you decide which option best suits your lifestyle, comfort, and preferences.

10. Ready to Make the Switch?

We'll wrap up with practical advice and a little encouragement to help you take the next step with confidence.

A Note From Isabel

This guide is one I wish I'd had when I first bought my menstrual cup. My hope is that it answers your questions honestly, eases some of the uncertainty, and helps you feel more confident as you explore a different way to manage your period. Take your time, read at your own pace, and remember—every experienced menstrual cup user was once a beginner too.

What Is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup that's worn inside the vagina during your period to collect menstrual fluid. Unlike pads and tampons, which absorb menstrual blood, a menstrual cup simply collects it until you're ready to empty, rinse, and reinsert it.

If you're picturing something uncomfortable or awkward, you're not alone—I certainly did the first time I heard about menstrual cups! The reality is that they're designed to be soft, flexible and, when inserted correctly, so comfortable that most people don't feel them at all.

What Is a Menstrual Cup Made From?

Most quality menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, a soft, durable material that's biocompatible, meaning it's designed to be safely used inside the body. It's free from BPA, latex and phthalates, doesn't absorb fluids or odours, and can last for several years when cared for properly.

Because a menstrual cup is reusable, it's very different from disposable period products. Instead of throwing it away after each use, you simply empty it, rinse it during your period, and sterilise it between cycles. One well-made cup can replace hundreds of pads or tampons over its lifetime.

How Is a Menstrual Cup Different from a Pad or Tampon?

The biggest difference is how it manages your period.

Pads absorb menstrual fluid after it leaves your body, while tampons absorb it inside the vagina. A menstrual cup works differently—it collects your menstrual fluid without absorbing it.

Many users find this more comfortable because the cup doesn't absorb the vagina's natural moisture in the same way tampons can. Instead, it simply collects your flow until you're ready to empty it.

Think of it as the difference between using a bucket to collect rainwater versus using a sponge to soak it up. One collects, while the other absorbs.

Why Are So Many Women Making the Switch?

Although menstrual cups have been around in some form since the 1930s, they've become increasingly popular over the past decade. Better materials, improved designs and growing awareness have encouraged millions of women around the world to make the switch.

For many, it's not just about reducing waste or saving money. It's about comfort, convenience and the freedom to get on with life without constantly thinking about their period.

If you're new to menstrual cups, it's completely normal to feel a little unsure. Every experienced menstrual cup user was once a beginner—including me. Like learning to ride a bicycle or drive a car, it might feel unfamiliar at first, but with a little patience and practice, it soon becomes second nature.

💙 Key Takeaway

A menstrual cup is a reusable period product made from medical-grade silicone that collects, rather than absorbs, menstrual fluid. When inserted correctly, it sits comfortably below the cervix and can provide can provide comfortable, reliable period protection throughout the day. Most people empty and rinse their cup every 6–8 hours, although quality menstrual cups are generally designed to be worn for up to 12 hours when necessary.".

 

How Does a Menstrual Cup Work?

One of the first questions most people ask is:

"Okay... but how does it actually work?"

It's a fair question, especially if you've only ever used pads or tampons.

The good news is that the concept is actually very simple.

A menstrual cup sits inside the vagina, just below the cervix, where it collects your menstrual fluid before it leaves your body. Unlike a tampon, which absorbs your flow, or a pad, which absorbs it after it has left your body, a menstrual cup simply collects it until you're ready to empty it.

Once you understand how it works, it suddenly feels much less mysterious.

Where Does a Menstrual Cup Sit?

A menstrual cup sits inside the vaginal canal, below the cervix. Once inserted correctly, it opens and forms a gentle seal against the vaginal walls, helping it stay comfortably in place while reducing the chance of leaks.

Many first-time users imagine the cup sitting much higher than it actually does. In reality, it sits lower than most people expect and should be easy to reach when it's time to remove it.

This is also why a menstrual cup can't get lost inside your body. Your cervix sits at the top of the vaginal canal, creating a natural barrier that prevents the cup from travelling any further.

(Illustration: Cross-section showing the uterus, cervix, vaginal canal and menstrual cup in the correct position.)

How Does It Stay in Place?

This is another question that worries many beginners.

A menstrual cup isn't held in place by powerful suction. Instead, once it has opened, it forms a gentle seal against the vaginal walls while your pelvic floor muscles help keep it comfortably in position.

When it's time to remove the cup, simply pinching the base breaks the seal, allowing it to be removed comfortably. We'll cover this in more detail later in the guide.

How Often Should You Empty Your Cup?

How often you empty your menstrual cup depends on your flow.

As a general guide, it's good practice to empty and rinse your cup every 6–8 hours, or around 3–4 times a day. If you have a heavier flow, you may need to empty it more frequently, especially during the first few days of your period.

Although many menstrual cups are designed to be worn for up to 12 hours, this should generally be viewed as the maximum recommended wear time, rather than the goal for everyday use. Longer wear times can be helpful when you're sleeping, travelling or don't have easy access to a bathroom, but whenever possible, it's best to empty and rinse your cup more regularly.

As you become familiar with your own menstrual cycle, you'll quickly learn what routine works best for you.

Can You Feel the Cup?

When inserted correctly, you generally shouldn't.

In fact, one of the things that surprises many first-time users is how quickly they forget they're wearing a menstrual cup at all.

If you can feel it, it may simply need a small adjustment. The cup could be sitting slightly too low, it may not have opened fully, or it might not be the ideal size or firmness for your body.

Like learning any new skill, there's a little trial and error in the beginning—and that's perfectly normal.

💙 Key Takeaway

A menstrual cup works by collecting menstrual fluid below the cervix rather than absorbing it. Once inserted correctly, it forms a gentle seal that helps it stay comfortably in place. Most people empty and rinse their cup every 6–8 hours, while 12 hours should generally be considered the maximum recommended wear time when circumstances require it.

 

The Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup

If you've never used a menstrual cup before, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about.

After all, pads and tampons have been around for decades, so why are more and more women making the switch?

The answer is simple: many people find that menstrual cups offer a level of comfort, convenience and freedom that they hadn't experienced before. While every woman's experience is unique, there are several reasons why menstrual cups have become an increasingly popular choice around the world.

Long-Lasting Protection

One of the biggest advantages of a menstrual cup is that it doesn't need to be changed as often as many disposable period products.

Most people empty and rinse their cup every 6–8 hours, depending on their flow. During heavier days, you may need to empty it more frequently.

If you're travelling, sleeping or don't have easy access to a bathroom, a quality menstrual cup is generally designed to be worn for up to 12 hours when necessary.

Comfortable Enough to Forget It's There

This one always surprises people.

A properly inserted menstrual cup shouldn't hurt, pinch or make you constantly aware that you're wearing it. In fact, one of the most common comments from experienced users is:

"I completely forgot I was on my period."

While there is a learning curve in the beginning, many users find that once they've mastered insertion and found the right size, the cup becomes one of the most comfortable period products they've ever used.

Better for Your Wallet

Let's be honest—period products aren't cheap.

Buying pads or tampons month after month adds up over the years.

A quality menstrual cup, on the other hand, is designed to last for several years with proper care. While the initial cost is higher than buying a single packet of pads or tampons, many users find that it saves them a significant amount of money over time.

It's one of those purchases where your future self quietly thanks you.

A More Sustainable Choice

Every disposable pad and tampon has to be thrown away after a single use.

A reusable menstrual cup is different.

With proper care, one cup can replace hundreds—sometimes even thousands—of disposable period products over its lifetime. For many women, making the switch is a simple way to reduce waste without changing much else about their daily routine.

You don't have to be passionate about zero-waste living to appreciate creating a little less rubbish each month.

Perfect for an Active Lifestyle

Whether you're heading to the gym, going for a run, swimming, practising yoga or spending the day hiking, a menstrual cup moves with your body.

Because it's worn internally, there's no pad to shift around and no string to worry about while swimming. Many active women choose menstrual cups because they provide reliable protection without limiting what they can do.

Your period doesn't have to decide whether you go to the beach or stay home.

Great for Travelling

Travelling during your period can be inconvenient.

Packing enough disposable products, finding bins when you're on the move, or remembering to stock up while you're away can all add unnecessary stress.

A menstrual cup takes up very little space in your luggage and can simply be emptied, rinsed and reinserted. For many travellers, it's one less thing to think about.

Overnight Confidence

One of the questions we hear most often is:

"Can I sleep with a menstrual cup?"

In most cases, yes.

Because menstrual cups can usually be worn comfortably overnight, many people find them ideal for sleeping. Just remember to empty and rinse your cup before bed and again in the morning, or sooner if your flow requires it.

Getting a good night's sleep is hard enough without worrying about leaks.

Every Woman's Experience Is Different

While many women love using menstrual cups, it's important to remember that there isn't one perfect period product for everyone.

Some people fall in love with their menstrual cup from the very first cycle. Others take a little longer to feel confident. And that's perfectly okay.

The goal isn't to convince everyone to switch—it's to help you find the period care option that works best for your body, your lifestyle and your comfort.

💙 Key Takeaway

Many women choose menstrual cups because they're comfortable, long-lasting, reusable and practical for everyday life. While there may be a short learning curve, many users find that the freedom and convenience they offer make the adjustment well worth it.

 

Are Menstrual Cups Safe?

It's completely natural to have questions about safety, especially if you're considering using a menstrual cup for the first time.

The reassuring news is that menstrual cups are considered safe for most people when they're made from high-quality materials and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. In fact, millions of women around the world use menstrual cups safely every month.

Like any menstrual product, the key is choosing a quality product, practising good hygiene, and using it correctly.

Medical-Grade Silicone Matters

Most quality menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, a material that's soft, flexible, durable and biocompatible. In simple terms, that means it's designed to be safely used inside the body.

Medical-grade silicone is also non-toxic, latex-free and free from BPA and phthalates. It doesn't absorb menstrual fluid, odours or bacteria in the same way that some porous materials can.

A well-made menstrual cup should feel smooth, flexible and comfortable, with no rough seams or sharp edges.

Good Hygiene Is Essential

Keeping your menstrual cup clean is simple, but it's also one of the most important parts of using it safely.

Before using your cup for the first time, it should be sterilised according to the manufacturer's instructions. During your period, wash your hands before inserting or removing the cup, and rinse the cup each time you empty it. At the end of your cycle, sterilise it again before storing it in a breathable cotton bag until your next period.

Don't worry—we'll walk you through cleaning and caring for your menstrual cup in more detail later in this guide.

What About Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins produced by certain types of bacteria.

Most people have heard about TSS in relation to tampons, but it's important to know that the risk is considered very low with menstrual cups. Although a small number of TSS cases associated with menstrual cup use have been reported in the medical literature, they are extremely uncommon.

The best way to reduce your risk is by following good hygiene practices:

• Wash your hands before inserting or removing your cup.

• Empty and clean your cup as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Don't wear your cup for longer than the recommended time.

• Replace your cup if it becomes damaged or shows signs of deterioration.

If you experience symptoms such as a sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, a rash that looks like sunburn, or feel seriously unwell while using any menstrual product, remove the product and seek immediate medical attention.

Who Should Speak to a Healthcare Professional?

For most healthy people, menstrual cups are a safe option.

However, it's a good idea to speak with your doctor or healthcare provider if you:

• have recently given birth or had pelvic surgery

• are recovering from a vaginal infection

• have been advised not to use internal menstrual products

• have concerns about using a menstrual cup with an IUD

• have a medical condition that may affect menstrual product use

A healthcare professional can give personalised advice based on your individual circumstances.

Listen to Your Body

Every body is different.

If your menstrual cup feels uncomfortable, causes pain, or doesn't seem to fit properly, don't ignore it. A different size or firmness may simply be a better match for your body.

Using a menstrual cup should never be painful. Once inserted correctly, most users don't feel it at all.

💙 Key Takeaway

Menstrual cups are considered safe for most people when they're made from high-quality materials, used correctly and kept clean. Choosing a well-made cup and following good hygiene practices can help you enjoy a safe, comfortable and confident period experience.

Choosing the Right Menstrual Cup

One of the most common questions people ask before buying a menstrual cup is:

"How do I know which size to choose?"

The good news is that choosing the right size isn't nearly as complicated as it might seem.

Unlike clothing sizes, menstrual cup sizing isn't based on height or weight. Instead, manufacturers usually recommend a size based on factors such as your age, whether you've given birth vaginally, the strength of your pelvic floor muscles, and sometimes the height of your cervix.

Don't worry if that sounds like a lot—we'll break it down.

What Affects Menstrual Cup Size?

While every brand has its own sizing recommendations, these are some of the factors commonly taken into account:

Your Age

Some brands recommend smaller cups for younger users and slightly larger cups for older users. This is because pelvic floor muscles naturally change over time. However, age is only one piece of the puzzle and shouldn't be used on its own when choosing a cup.

Whether You've Given Birth

Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth can affect the pelvic floor muscles, which is why many brands ask whether you've given birth vaginally when recommending a size.

That doesn't mean everyone who's had a baby automatically needs a larger cup—or that everyone who hasn't should choose a smaller one. It's simply one of several factors to consider.

Your Pelvic Floor Muscles

If you're physically active or regularly do activities that strengthen your pelvic floor—such as running, weightlifting, Pilates or yoga—you may have stronger pelvic floor muscles, which can sometimes influence which cup feels most comfortable.

Your Cervix Height

One factor that many first-time users haven't heard of is cervix height.

Your cervix sits at the top of the vaginal canal, but its position can vary from person to person and can even change slightly throughout your menstrual cycle.

People with a lower cervix may find that certain cups feel more comfortable than others, while those with a higher cervix may prefer a slightly longer cup.

Don't Stress Too Much

It's easy to worry about choosing the "perfect" size, but here's some reassurance:

Most people only have two size options to choose from, and the majority find a comfortable fit by following the manufacturer's recommendations.

If your first cup isn't the perfect fit, it doesn't mean menstrual cups aren't for you. Sometimes a different size, shape or firmness simply suits your body better.

Remember, every body is unique—and that's completely normal.

Need Help Choosing?

To make choosing the right menstrual cup as easy as possible, we've created a dedicated Menstrual Cup Size Guide that explains the sizing process in more detail and can help you decide which option is likely to suit you best.

💙 Key Takeaway

Choosing the right menstrual cup is about finding the best fit for your body—not finding a "perfect" body for the cup. Factors like age, childbirth, pelvic floor strength and cervix height can all play a role, but most people can confidently choose the right size by following a trusted sizing guide.

Getting Started

If you've made it this far, you might be thinking:

"Okay... I understand what a menstrual cup is. But how do I actually use it?"

The good news is that using a menstrual cup isn't difficult—it just takes a little practice.

Like learning to ride a bicycle, drive a car or master a new recipe, it can feel unfamiliar at first. Most people don't become experts on their very first attempt, and that's completely normal.

The first cycle is all about learning. The second usually feels easier. By the third, many users wonder why they ever felt so nervous in the first place.

Inserting a Menstrual Cup

Before inserting your menstrual cup, always wash your hands thoroughly.

The cup is folded to make insertion easier and then gently inserted into the vagina, where it opens and forms a gentle seal below the cervix. There are several different folding techniques, and you may find that one works better for you than another.

Try to stay relaxed, take your time, and don't be discouraged if it takes a few attempts to get comfortable. Finding the technique that works best for your body is part of the learning process.

For a detailed, step-by-step guide with illustrations and folding methods, visit our How to Insert a Menstrual Cup guide.

Removing a Menstrual Cup

Removing your cup is often much easier than first-time users expect.

The most important thing to remember is not to pull on the stem alone. Instead, gently pinch the base of the cup to release the seal before removing it. Once the seal is broken, the cup can usually be removed comfortably with a gentle rocking motion.

If your cup seems to have moved a little higher than expected, don't panic. Your cup can't get lost inside your body. Take a few slow breaths, relax your pelvic floor muscles and bear down gently as if you're having a bowel movement. This usually helps bring the cup within easier reach.

For a complete walkthrough, visit our How to Remove a Menstrual Cup guide.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Menstrual Cup

Keeping your menstrual cup clean is simple and only takes a few minutes.

Before using it for the first time and after each menstrual cycle, sterilise your cup according to the manufacturer's instructions. During your period, simply rinse the cup with clean water each time you empty it before reinserting it. If clean water isn't available, you can wipe the cup with toilet paper or a clean tissue and rinse it properly at your next opportunity.

Once your period has finished, allow the cup to dry completely before storing it in a breathable storage bag. Avoid storing it in an airtight container, as good airflow helps keep your cup in excellent condition.

Our How to Clean and Care for Your Menstrual Cup guide explains the process in more detail and includes helpful tips for long-term care.

Be Patient with Yourself

One of the biggest mistakes new users make is expecting perfection from day one.

The truth is that using a menstrual cup is a new skill, and every skill takes practice.

If your first attempt doesn't go quite as planned, you're in very good company. Almost every experienced menstrual cup user has a story about their first cycle—and most of us laugh about it now.

Give yourself permission to learn, celebrate the small victories, and remember that confidence comes with experience.

💙 Key Takeaway

Learning to use a menstrual cup takes a little patience, but it quickly becomes second nature for most users. Take your time, practise without putting pressure on yourself, and remember that every experienced cup user was once a beginner too.

 

Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Let's start with a little reassurance.

If your menstrual cup doesn't feel perfect the first time you use it, it doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong.

Learning to use a menstrual cup is a bit like learning any new skill—it takes a little patience, practice and a willingness to laugh at yourself every now and then. Most experienced menstrual cup users can remember at least one "what on earth am I doing?" moment during their first cycle.

The good news is that most beginner challenges are easy to solve once you know what to look for.

The Cup Won't Open Properly

If your cup stays folded after insertion, it may not create the gentle seal needed to prevent leaks.

Try gently rotating the cup, running a clean finger around the base to check whether it has opened completely, or experimenting with a different folding method. Sometimes simply relaxing your pelvic floor muscles can also help the cup open naturally.

Don't be afraid to try a few different folds—many users have a favourite, but it's rarely the same one for everyone.

You're Experiencing Leaks

A leak doesn't always mean your cup is the wrong size.

In many cases, the cup simply hasn't opened fully or isn't sitting below the cervix. Taking a little extra time during insertion to check the position of the cup often solves the problem.

It's also worth remembering that very heavy flow can occasionally exceed the capacity of the cup, meaning it simply needs to be emptied more frequently.

The Cup Feels Uncomfortable

A properly positioned menstrual cup shouldn't cause pain or constant discomfort.

If you can feel your cup while walking or sitting, it may be sitting slightly too low, or the stem may be longer than you need. Before trimming the stem, use the cup for a few cycles if possible—you may find that once you're more familiar with insertion, the original length feels perfectly comfortable.

If discomfort continues, it could also be a sign that a different cup shape, firmness or size would suit your body better.

You're Nervous About Removing It

If there's one thing I hear over and over again, it's this:

"I'm scared it won't come out."

Take a deep breath—it will.

A menstrual cup can't disappear inside your body, even if it sits a little higher than expected. Relax your pelvic floor muscles, bear down gently as if you're having a bowel movement, and pinch the base of the cup to break the seal before removing it.

Most importantly, don't panic. The more relaxed you are, the easier removal usually becomes.

You Expected to Get It Right the First Time

This might be the biggest beginner mistake of all.

It's completely normal if your first attempt feels a little awkward or takes longer than you expected. Very few people become confident menstrual cup users overnight.

Give yourself permission to learn.

If your first cycle isn't perfect, don't put the cup back in the cupboard for another six months like I nearly did. (Trust me—I know how tempting that can be!)

Instead, remind yourself that every cycle is another opportunity to become more comfortable and confident.

One day you'll probably find yourself giving advice to someone who's just starting their own menstrual cup journey.

💙 Key Takeaway

Every beginner experiences a learning curve, and that's completely normal. Most common challenges—such as leaks, difficulty opening the cup or feeling nervous about removal—can be solved with a little practice, patience and the right technique.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

By now, you should have a good understanding of how menstrual cups work and why so many women choose them. But if you're anything like I was, there are probably still a few questions floating around in your mind.

Here are some of the questions we get asked most often.

Can I Sleep with a Menstrual Cup?

Yes. Many people find menstrual cups to be one of the most comfortable options for overnight protection.

Before going to bed, empty and rinse your cup, then reinsert it. Most people can comfortably wear it through the night, provided they don't exceed the maximum recommended wear time and their flow doesn't require more frequent emptying.

Can I Swim with a Menstrual Cup?

Absolutely.

Because a menstrual cup is worn internally, it's a popular choice for swimming. Whether you're heading to the beach, relaxing by the pool or training for a race, you don't have to let your period stop you from enjoying the water.

Can I Exercise While Wearing a Menstrual Cup?

Yes.

A menstrual cup moves with your body, making it suitable for activities like running, hiking, cycling, yoga, Pilates, weightlifting and gym workouts.

Once inserted correctly, most users don't feel it at all.

Can I Go to the Toilet While Wearing a Menstrual Cup?

Yes—you can urinate and have a bowel movement while wearing a menstrual cup.

Your urethra (where urine leaves your body) and your vagina are separate openings, so the cup won't stop you from peeing.

Some people find that having a bowel movement may cause the cup to shift slightly because of the pressure from the pelvic floor muscles. If this happens, simply check that your cup is still sitting comfortably afterwards.

How Often Should I Empty My Menstrual Cup?

This depends on your flow.

As a general guide, it's good practice to empty and rinse your cup every 6–8 hours, or around 3–4 times a day. On heavier days, you'll probably need to empty it more often.

Although many menstrual cups are designed to be worn for up to 12 hours, this should generally be considered the maximum recommended wear time, rather than your everyday routine.

Can I Use a Menstrual Cup If I Have an IUD?

Many women successfully use a menstrual cup with an IUD.

However, because everyone's circumstances are different, it's a good idea to discuss it with your healthcare provider first. When removing your cup, always break the seal by pinching the base before pulling it out, as this helps reduce unnecessary tension on the IUD strings.

Will a Menstrual Cup Stretch My Vagina?

No.

This is a very common myth.

The vagina is incredibly elastic and is designed to stretch and then return to its normal shape. Using a menstrual cup will not permanently stretch your vagina.

Can Teenagers Use a Menstrual Cup?

Yes.

Many teenagers use menstrual cups successfully.

The most important thing is choosing the correct size, taking your time to learn the insertion technique and feeling comfortable using an internal menstrual product.

How Long Does a Menstrual Cup Last?

A quality menstrual cup can last for several years when cared for properly.

Inspect your cup regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, sticky patches or changes in texture. If you notice any of these, it's time to replace your cup.

My Menstrual Cup Has Changed Colour. Is That Normal?

Yes.

Clear menstrual cups may naturally become slightly stained over time. This is completely normal and doesn't necessarily mean your cup is dirty or unsafe to use.

As long as your cup is cleaned correctly and remains in good condition, a little discolouration is usually only cosmetic.

In fact, one advantage of a clear menstrual cup is that it's much easier to see whether it's completely clean and to spot any damage or cracks that may develop over time.

What If My Menstrual Cup Leaks?

Don't panic.

Most leaks happen because the cup hasn't fully opened or isn't sitting in the correct position below the cervix. It doesn't necessarily mean you've bought the wrong cup.

Like anything new, there's a learning curve. A few small adjustments are often all it takes to solve the problem.

💙 Key Takeaway

Almost every question about menstrual cups has a simple answer. The more familiar you become with your body and your menstrual cup, the more natural using it will feel. If something doesn't go perfectly the first time, don't be discouraged—every experienced menstrual cup user started exactly where you are today.

Menstrual Cups vs Pads and Tampons

There's no single "best" period product.

The right choice depends on your body, your lifestyle, your comfort level and your personal preferences.

For some women, pads are the right choice. Others prefer tampons. Many fall in love with menstrual cups. And some even use a combination of products depending on the day, their flow or what they're doing.

Rather than saying one product is better than another, it's more helpful to understand the differences so you can decide what works best for you.

Feature	Menstrual Cup	Tampons	Pads
How it works	Collects menstrual fluid	Absorbs menstrual fluid	Absorbs menstrual fluid
Wear location	Internal	Internal	External
Typical wear time	Ideally emptied every 6–8 hours (maximum 12 hours when necessary), depending on your flow	Usually changed every 4–8 hours	Usually changed every 3–6 hours
Reusable	Yes	No	No
Swimming	✔ Yes	✔ Yes	✘ No
Overnight use	✔ Yes	✔ Yes (within recommended wear time)	✔ Yes
Waste produced	Very little	Moderate	High
Long-term cost to you	Lower	Higher	Higher

Why Some Women Choose a Menstrual Cup

Many women switch to a menstrual cup because they enjoy the convenience of a reusable product that can fit into almost any lifestyle.

Instead of carrying spare pads or tampons wherever you go, one menstrual cup can provide reliable protection throughout the day. Many users also appreciate the freedom to swim, exercise, travel and sleep comfortably while wearing it.

For some, it's about saving money over time. For others, it's about reducing waste. And for many, it's simply because they find it more comfortable.

Remember, There's No Right or Wrong Choice

One thing I want to make very clear is this:

Choosing a menstrual cup doesn't make you a "better" person.

If pads work best for you, that's okay.

If you prefer tampons, that's okay too.

And if you decide a menstrual cup is the right choice for your body and lifestyle, that's wonderful.

The goal isn't to convince everyone to use the same period product.

The goal is to help every woman make an informed decision based on accurate information—not myths, fear or clever marketing.

If you're ready to begin your menstrual cup journey, you can explore our Flo Angel Menstrual Cup Collection and find the size that's right for you.

Whether you're making the switch today, next month, or six months from now, the important thing is that you're making an informed decision. Period care isn't one-size-fits-all, and you deserve to choose the option that feels right for you.

💙 Key Takeaway

Every period product has its advantages. Understanding how menstrual cups, pads and tampons differ allows you to choose the option that best suits your body, your lifestyle and your personal preferences. The best period product is the one that helps you feel comfortable, confident and supported throughout your cycle.

 

References

• van Eijk, A. M., Zulaika, G., Lenchner, M., et al. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Public Health, 2019.

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Your First Period. Includes general information about menstrual cups and recommended wear times.

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Vaginitis. Includes guidance on cleaning reusable menstrual products such as menstrual cups.

• Mayo Clinic. Toxic Shock Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes.

• Bowman, N., Thwaites, A., & Madden, T. Menstrual cup and risk of IUD expulsion: A systematic review. Contraception and Reproductive Medicine, 2023.

• Blignaut, J., Kemp, G., Erasmus, E., Visser, H. G., & Schutte-Smith, M. The presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in sanitary pads: A study done in South Africa. Science of the Total Environment, 2026.

• University of the Free State. UFS study detects hormone-disrupting chemicals in menstrual products sold in South Africa.

• Wikipedia contributors. Medical-grade silicone.