What is the best menstrual cup for me?

Menstrual Cup Recommendations

There is no single "best" menstrual cup for everyone, as the ideal choice depends on individual factors including cervix height, flow volume, and personal comfort preferences, but selecting a cup with appropriate size and firmness for your anatomy is most important for effectiveness and comfort. 1

Key Factors in Selecting a Menstrual Cup

Size and Volume Considerations

• Despite being marketed similarly, menstrual cups vary significantly in volume (18.88 mL to 38.14 mL) and firmness (compression strength from 3.39 N to 13.92 N) 2
• Cup volume should match your menstrual flow:
  • Light flow: Smaller cups (≤25 mL)
  • Medium flow: Medium cups (25-30 mL)
  • Heavy flow: Larger cups (≥30 mL)

Firmness Factors

• Firmness affects both comfort and leak prevention:
  • Softer cups: More comfortable but may not open as easily
  • Firmer cups: Open more reliably but may cause pressure on bladder or discomfort
  • Recommended firmness categories range from "very soft" to "very firm" 2

Cervix Height

• Low cervix: Shorter cups with flatter bases
• Average cervix: Standard length cups
• High cervix: Longer cups with longer stems for easier removal

Adaptation and Learning Curve

• Expect a familiarization period of 2-3 menstrual cycles 3, 1
• Success rates improve significantly with continued use:
  • Satisfaction scores increase from initial use to third cycle 3
  • 68.9% of women continue use after three cycles 3
  • 73% of participants across studies wished to continue using menstrual cups 1

Safety Profile

Benefits

• Safe option for menstrual management with minimal reported adverse events 1, 4
• No significant effects on vaginal flora in multiple studies 1
• Can be worn for up to 12 hours depending on flow
• Eco-friendly alternative to disposable products

Potential Concerns

• Rare reports of:
  • Pain or vaginal wounds (5 cases in systematic review) 1
  • Allergic reactions (6 reports) 1
  • Urinary tract complaints (9 reports) 1
  • Toxic shock syndrome (5 reports) - extremely rare 1, 5
• May increase risk of IUD dislodgement (13 reported cases) - break suction before removal 1

Practical Tips for New Users

1. Proper insertion technique:

   • Fold cup (C-fold, punch-down fold, or 7-fold)
   • Insert at 45° angle toward tailbone
   • Ensure cup opens fully by rotating or running finger around rim

2. Removal best practices:

   • Always break suction before removing (especially important with IUDs)
   • Pinch base of cup or insert finger alongside cup
   • Remove at an angle to prevent spillage

3. Cleaning and maintenance:

   • Wash with mild, unscented soap between uses
   • Sterilize by boiling for 5-10 minutes between cycles
   • Replace every 1-2 years depending on manufacturer recommendations

Cost and Environmental Impact

• Price range: $0.72-46.72 (median $23.30) 1
• Long-term cost savings compared to disposable products
• Significantly reduced environmental impact compared to tampons and pads

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Leakage issues: Try different folding methods, ensure proper opening, or consider a different size/firmness
• Difficulty removing: Relax, bear down with pelvic muscles, and break suction before attempting removal
• Discomfort: Try different positions for insertion/removal, consider a softer cup, or check cup placement

Remember that finding the right menstrual cup may require some trial and error, but the long-term benefits of cost savings, environmental impact, and convenience make it worth the initial adjustment period for many users.