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General questions about MeLuna menstrual cups

What is the lifespan of my MeLuna menstrual cup?

Depending on appropriate use and maintenance, MeLuna have shown in a wear test conducted by a third party lab that they can withstand a minimum of 3 years of wear. Many users have kept their MeLuna in great shape for many more years! Due to FDA regulations we can only claim use life that has been substantiated in third party testing. Testing is expensive. That's why we only tested for 3 years.

Excessive exposure to UV rays will cause MeLuna to get brittle, which is why it should be kept out of the sun.

How long can I wear the MeLuna menstrual cup for?

MeLuna cups should be removed, emptied and cleaned at a minimum every 8-12 hours. New study results suggest that changing the cup every 6 hours is preferable.

I am currently using a copper IUD or a hormonal IUD for contraception. Can I use a MeLuna menstrual cup?

All bodies are different and different IUDs have different guidelines. Please consult your gynecologist for further input to find out if cup use is compatible in your case. In most cases at a minimum shortening of the string will be required.

I am a virgin. Can I use MeLuna menstrual cups?

Yes, you can. In fact MeLuna carries one of the narrowest menstrual cups on the market, uniquely suited for new menstrual cup users. Please keep in mind that your hymen may tear.

Can I use my MeLuna as a contraceptive?

No, absolutely not! MeLuna is not an effective contraceptive device

Can I wear my Menstrual Cup when I have sex?

No, absolutely not! Wearing the MeLuna during sex can lead to internal injuries

Is it possible to get Toxic Shock Syndrome with menstrual cups?

Yes. TSS cases in menstrual cup users are not common but they are possible

Recently a French study indicated that frequent disinfection may decrease infection risk. The study suggested to change to a fresh cup every 6 hours. To make this practical it would be best to have 4 cups in rotation and disinfect them once a day. We do offer a 4-cup combo deal is for users who would like to follow this approach.

The Consumer Reports summary can be found here 

Some things to keep in mind:

1) There are very few cases of TSS in menstrual cups on record

2) The study identified that the bacteria associated with TSS clings much less to TPE than it does to silicone. MeLuna cups are made from the safer TPE material- not silicone!

3) MeLuna cups original cleaning instructions of cleaning with Cetaphil and disinfecting only twice during each cycle was verified to be sufficient in an independent lab study for our FDA clearance

4) If you have had TSS before any internally worn menstrual device (cup or tampon, etc) is NOT recommended

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Questions about the material of MeLuna

What is my MeLuna made of and how is it produced?

The material used in MeLuna is medical grade TPE. We chose TPE for the following reasons:

 

• TPE has a lower incidence of causing an allergic reaction than silicone.

• TPE is also a very pliable material that readily conforms to its surroundings for an even more custom feel for the wearer. You may find that over time your TPE cup becomes a bit more oval in shape after adjusting to its wearer’s shape. This is nothing to worry about. The cup will again conform to your shape the next time you wear it. If you ever would like to return the cup to its original completely round shape, simply boil the cup in hot water.

• Recent studies have shown that the bacteria that is associated with TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome )is less likely to cling to TPE than it is to silicone cups. MeLuna cups are NOT made from silicone

Clearing up some misconceptions:

It is not cheaper to manufacture medical grade TPE cups than silicone cups. Medical grade TPE and especially medical grade colorants for TPE are very costly. Cost reduction is not a reason for choosing TPE

TPE cups are not less durable than silicone cups. As mentioned above use-life declarations are tied to testing and testing is linked to cost. We can only claim a use-life substantiated by testing. Manufacturers not bound by FDA regulations can claim whatever as they don't have to substantiate their claims with testing.

I have a latex allergy. Can I use MeLuna?

Yes, you can. MeLuna is not made from latex, but from TPE.

Is it possible to have an allergic reaction against MeLuna?

The raw material of MeLuna, TPE, does not contain any proteins, PVC, latex or silicone. Thus, an allergic reaction is not likely

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Questions about sizes and use of MeLuna menstrual cups

What is the right size for me?

This depends on several factors. We have compiled information about the size for you. Check out our Size Calculator 

MeLuna seems very complicated to handle, will I be able to do it?

Only patience and practice are required. After one or two menstrual cycles you will have mastered the handling of your MeLuna. 

 

How do I use my MeLuna?

Comprehensive information on the use of the menstrual cup can be found on our website

My MeLuna leaks. What can I do?

Are you using the right size? The largest diameter has to seal the vagina to prevent leaking. If the cup is too small, it will not sit tight enough. Does the cup unfold inside the vagina? If not, your MeLuna is probably too large for you. Please contact us for trouble shooting help

Help! I can not remove the MeLuna!

Using a menstrual cup requires new skills for many. Some users have problems, to remove the cup during the first attempts. Please give yourself enough time and keep calm. Our pelvic muscles  can unfortunately respond to mental stress by tensing up . That does not make things easier. Go into a squatting/sitting position. Try to press the menstrual cup outward gently by using your pelvic floor muscles (like a bowel movement).  After several attempts, removal will be as easier as the insertion.

What are safe lubricants to use with the MeLuna?

Lubricants can be used to simplify insertion. Since MeLuna is not made from silicone, the material itself should not be affected by silicone-based lubricants unlike other menstrual cups made from silicone or latex for which silicone based lubricants are not recommended. Please do not use oils or fats.on your Meluna. Food oils like coconut oil can turn the Meluna black. Petroleum based oils can make the Meluna floppy.

For that reason we recommend water based, safe lubricants such as Sliquid, which we offer in our webshop.

I don't like the way the handle feels. Can I turn the MeLuna inside out?

Please do NOT turn the MeLuna inside out. Pointing the handle towards your cervix can result in injury and is not a safe way to use your menstrual cup. The MeLuna is also molded in its original shape and turning the cup inside out will result in a reduced uselife due to the strain on the material. If you wish you may remove the handle, following the instructions on our Instagram and Youtube channels.  

How do I clean my MeLuna?

There are different methods for cleaning menstrual cups. Please see the Instructions Page for detailed information on cleaning care for your MeLuna, as well as valuable tips. 

My MeLuna is smelly!

Unpleasant odors can be prevented. MeLuna should be removed at a minimum every 8 to 12 hours. Some users have reported temporary changes of smell, which are likely due to various proteins in the blood. A menstrual cup may suddenly assume a different smell, although it has been cleaned as usual. Usually odors disappear when you place your disinfected MeLuna in a dry, well-ventilated place for several days. 

Can I use MeLuna while engaging in sport?

Yes, of course you can also use your menstrual cup when exercising. Because of its flexible material, MeLuna will fit your vagina perfectly and will not affect your movement. For users participating in sports that particularly involve the core muscles we recommend the MeLuna Sport cup.