A menstrual cup is a flexible, bell-shaped or funnel-shaped device inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. Made from medical-grade materials such as silicone, rubber, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), it offers a modern, reusable alternative to traditional absorbent products like pads and tampons. The cup sits low in the vaginal canal and is held in place by a combination of pelvic floor muscle tone and a gentle suction seal against the vaginal walls. This design is focused on collection rather than absorption, which is a fundamental difference from traditional products.
Menstrual cups are primarily available as reusable devices, which can last for several years with proper care, greatly reducing long-term costs and waste. Some manufacturers also offer disposable, single-use cups, which are typically made of softer plastic materials. The reusable nature of the cup is a significant part of its appeal, offering an environmentally conscious choice.
Defining the Menstrual Cup
The physical composition of a menstrual cup is key to its function, with most models utilizing medical-grade silicone for its durability and biocompatibility. This material ensures the cup is flexible enough to fold for insertion yet firm enough to spring open and form a seal once inside the body. The bell-shaped design features a rim that creates the seal and a base that tapers into a small stem or loop for easier removal.
Unlike absorbent products, the cup does not interfere with the vagina’s natural moisture balance or pH levels. It simply catches the menstrual flow, which can be worn for up to 12 hours before needing to be emptied. The capacity of a cup often exceeds that of multiple super-absorbency tampons, allowing for extended wear time. The two main styles are the traditional bell-shaped cup and the menstrual disc, which is a shallower, wider ring-shaped device that tucks behind the pubic bone.
Practical Use and Maintenance
Insertion of the cup requires folding it into a smaller shape to slide into the vaginal opening, with the two most common methods being the C-fold and the punch-down fold. The C-fold involves flattening the cup and folding it in half to create a “C” or “U” shape, which allows the cup to pop open easily once released inside. The punch-down fold involves pushing one side of the rim down into the cup’s center, creating a smaller, narrower insertion point that many beginners find more comfortable.
Once inserted, the cup should sit entirely within the vagina, positioned lower than a tampon. A gentle twist or run of a finger around the rim ensures it has fully opened to create the necessary seal. A properly formed seal provides a vacuum that prevents leaks, which can be checked by gently tugging on the stem to feel resistance. When it is time for removal, it is necessary to first break the suction seal to prevent discomfort.
Breaking the seal is achieved by inserting a finger to pinch the base of the cup, not the stem, which allows air to rush in and release the vacuum. Using the pelvic floor muscles to gently bear down can also help lower the cup to an accessible position. After removal, the contents are emptied into the toilet, and the cup must be rinsed with water before reinsertion. Between menstrual cycles, the cup should be sterilized by boiling it in water for five to ten minutes to maintain hygiene.
Choosing the Right Cup
Selecting the correct cup depends on individual anatomy and lifestyle, making size and firmness the two most significant factors. Sizing is often related to flow volume, age, and childbirth history; larger cups are generally recommended for those with a heavier flow or who have given birth vaginally. The height of the cervix is an important consideration, as it varies throughout the menstrual cycle and impacts the necessary length of the cup.
Cervix height can be estimated by inserting a clean finger into the vagina during menstruation. If the cervix is felt quickly (like the tip of a nose), a shorter cup is required, while a high cervix allows for a longer cup. Cup firmness also plays a role in comfort and function. Softer cups are ideal for people with a sensitive bladder or a tendency toward cramping. Firmer cups are better for those with strong pelvic floor muscles or who engage in vigorous physical activity, as they are less likely to be crushed and will pop open more easily upon insertion to form a reliable seal.
Advantages Over Traditional Products
The primary benefits of switching to a menstrual cup are financial and environmental. A single reusable cup can last up to ten years, offsetting the recurring expense of disposable products. This long lifespan drastically reduces the amount of waste generated, offering a substantial ecological advantage over single-use pads and tampons. The cup’s capacity allows for up to 12 hours of wear, which is significantly longer than the four-to-eight-hour limit for tampons, offering greater convenience.
Since the cup collects fluid instead of absorbing it, it avoids the dryness and irritation sometimes associated with absorbent products, which can alter the delicate vaginal microbiome. Menstrual cups are made from inert, medical-grade materials, and they do not contain the fibers, bleaches, or chemical additives found in some disposable options. Many users also report a reduction in menstrual odor, as the fluid is not exposed to air until the cup is emptied.