What is a Menstrual Cup?
Menstrual Cups have been around for quite some time now. MeLuna USA received FDA clearance in 2014 in the US for example and has been in existence in Europe since 2009.
They are a safe and effective alternative to other menstrual products.
If you are wondering what a menstrual cup is exactly and how it can make your period more convenient, more economical and more eco-friendly then this article is for you!
What is a menstrual cup?
Menstrual cups are small cups made from silicone or TPE, designed to collect menstrual fluid during your period. They are periodically emptied and are meant to be reused rather than thrown away like Tampons.
What are some advantages of using a menstrual cup?
One of my favorite things about menstrual cups is that you never run out! Your menstrual cup is right there when you need it. No need to rush to the store for more.
Of course this results in less waste, which makes menstrual cups a lot more eco-friendly than disposable options.
Speaking of waste... buying less disposable products and reusing one product over and over also saves you money.
Menstrual cups really are a more convenient, more eco-friendly and more economical alternative to disposable menstrual products.
Where is the menstrual cup worn?
Menstrual cups are worn inside your vagina, below your cervix. If you are familiar with using tampons, using menstrual cups should feel fairly familiar.
How do you use a menstrual cup?
To use a menstrual cup you have the option of several different folding techniques. This makes the menstrual cups smaller during insertion and more comfortable to insert. Once inside your body the cup will open and settle into place.
Since it is located right beneath the cervix where the menstrual fluid is expelled, the cup now collects the fluid. It will be necessary to empty and clean the cup at least every 8-12 hours. This ensures that there is no bacterial growth or odor and you should do this even if your cup does not fill completely.
Of course if you do have a very strong flow with large volume of fluid you may need to empty the cup more frequently.
If you are curious about inserting and removing a menstrual cup you can find more info here: Inserting Your Menstrual Cup or Removing Your Menstrual Cup
How do you take care of a menstrual cup?
Since the menstrual cup is reusable it will be important to clean it properly to make it safe for reusing. Ideally you rinse and clean the cup every time you empty it with cold water and a mild detergent. Of course while you are out and about this may not always be possible and its fine to use travel accessories like disposable wipes.
Once each cycle you should disinfect the menstrual cup.
There are different ways to accomplish this and you can read more about cleaning and disinfecting menstrual cups here: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Menstrual Cup
Who can wear a menstrual cup?
Generally speaking, if you have a vagina and a menstrual period you likely can wear a menstrual cup!
At MeLuna we offer more sizes and heights than other cup brands so there are MeLuna cups for every body.
Teens can wear menstrual cups. People who have not had intercourse can wear menstrual cups. People who have had intercourse but do not have children can wear menstrual cups. People who have given birth can wear menstrual cups. In fact MeLuna USA offers an award winning low cervix cup called 'Shorty' that is very popular with people who have given birth and experience a lower than average cervix after childbirth.
Who should not wear a menstrual cup?
People who have suffered from TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) in the past should not wear ANY internal devices as they may be more prone to staph infections in the future.
This includes ALL internal menstrual products regardless of material or manufacturer:
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual Discs
Diaphragms
Tampons
How to find your menstrual cup size?
You can simply use one of our Menstrual Cup Size Charts or get a more personalized recommendation by using the Menstrual Cup Quiz.
Take the Menstrual Cup Quiz!
What if the menstrual cup you choose doesn't fit?
Menstrual cups are considered a medical device and of course not returnable or re-sellable once worn. You should not share your cup or reuse somebody else's cup.
If the cup you chose there are some things you can do to make the existing cup fit better. For example if the handle is too long you can shorten it by simply cutting it off with scissors.
MeLuna USA Menstrual Cups are unique in 2 ways:
1) MeLuna USA has more models, sizes and options than any other menstrual cup brand so it's possible to find a well fitting menstrual cup for any body.
2) MeLuna USA also offers a special discount program that guarantees 50% off a second cup, if the first cup is not a perfect fit, including troubleshooting to ensure your second MeLuna will be perfect for you.
You can learn more about it here: The MeLuna USA Guarantee
Still have Menstrual Cup Questions?
We look forward to answering any other menstrual cup questions via live chat Monday through Friday between 9am and 5pm or via email anytime! Email us here
Ready to Try a Menstrual Cup?
Find your size and model using the Menstrual Cup Quiz , then use coupon code TRYACUP for 10% off during checkout!