Ladies, would you use a menstrual cup? [Archive]

Storm

07-28-2010, 03:07 PM

Yeah, I have used them. I use the disposable kind, not the non-disposable. Although I wouldn't be opposed to the non-disposable if I saw one for sale. Seems like a great way to save money.

They are great. They last longer, you can do more activities with them (including sex with the disposable ones), and they are even more comfortable than a tampon, most of the time.

I've only had one problem with them, if they become misplaced or if you are experiencing cramps, they can make cramps worse.

If you think you'd like to try one, Wal-Mart carries the disposable Instead brand. I don't know any other big name store that carries them.

altoid

07-28-2010, 08:15 PM

I've used the Instead brand and like it for the same reasons Storm mentioned - it lasts longer, more comfortable, allows for sex. I love them, although they can be a little more awkward to get into place than is a tampon. I would absolutely try the non-disposable kind.

khadi

07-28-2010, 08:58 PM

I use a non-disposable cup. It is ideal.

Many women and girls will never hear of menstrual cups, partly because they're not advertised. One is all you need. They're not conducive to habitual consumption, unlike tampons and pads. I agree that girls should be told that these things exist. I wish I'd known back then.

InfiniteLoop

07-28-2010, 09:28 PM

I'd try it, but it's not something that sounds all that appealing to me - I'm not big on touching menstrual blood and the idea of handling a cup full of it is kinda squicky to be honest. I don't like the tampons you insert with your finger either, for the same reason. I also bleed really, really heavy and had to go on birth control just to control the heavy bleeding (I'd bleed like two weeks in a row, off and on really heavy - and then next cycle it'd be a three-day period, and the next would be normal. A complete toss-up on how heavy I'd bleed); even on it, I still bleed heavy enough that I'd require above a Super absorbency tampon. I'm not so sure I'd be able to go all day in it without taking it out and cleaning it a couple times, not on a heavier blood load. Also, I think the tampons I use are rather comfortable (they're a sports variety and work *really* well for me), but your mileage will vary.

firebee

07-28-2010, 11:20 PM

I've got an IUD and am conservative as all-get-out concerning the technology that stands between me and conspicuous staining (the last permanent change that I made in this regard was going to Always-with-wings over wingless, at the age of 11 or so), so I haven't quite gotten around to holding an audition yet. However, I'm thinking that some of the features of the menstrual cup may manage to overcome my lack of being impressed with the vaginally-inserted genre of period-management devices.

adastra

07-29-2010, 08:30 PM

I use a non-disposable. I think it rocks. It's saved me lots of money over the years and it's environmentally friendly.

Silverity

07-29-2010, 08:45 PM

Question for all of you who use them, how compatible is it with work and school-- places where there are only public bathrooms (not single stalls with a sink inside, all shared facilities).

I had a friend who used the cup and she also had a couple reusable pads. I think I'd be more inclined to use the latter than the former.

SelfMadeBum

07-29-2010, 08:46 PM

I'm just :stunned:

Not much to add other than I guess I'd try it.

Danisty

07-29-2010, 10:20 PM

Not me. I have no interest in trying this sort of thing. I'm not embarrassed or ashamed of menstruation, but I still think it's pretty icky and the potential to make a mess with a menstrual cup will keep me from trying it.

the "your first period" kits they hand out at school. :stunned: I had no idea such a kit existed. At what age do they hand them out? When did they start doing this?

Napoleptic

07-29-2010, 11:41 PM

Many women are apprehensive about the potential mess. It may seem counterintuitive, but the non-disposable cups especially are actually less messy than tampons once you get the hang of them. I've been using a non-disposable for a couple years now, and quite frankly I'm now squeamish about tampons because I find them much more messy than the cup.

You can avoid the messy trial stage by just using it on your light days the first few months until you have the chance to get the insertion and removal techniques figured out (of course if you remember the first time you used a tampon, you'll realize there was a learning curve there, too). It's also safe to insert a day or two before your period, so if you're regular enough to predict when you'll start, you can do a dry run, which will also help.

In regard to a heavy flow, I've found that the non-disposable cup will last me far, far longer than even a super tampon - 12 hours or more (technically you're not supposed to go longer than 12 hours, but I've forgotten before) with the cup vs. 3-4 hours with a super tampon on my heaviest days. Plus the volume is marked on the cup, and some women like to monitor the measurement of their flow. I haven't really seen a need for this, but it does actually make you far more aware of it than with tampons, and the more aware you are of your body, the better.

To answer the question about public restrooms, you just empty the non-disposable, wipe it down, and reinsert, and then wash it later when you have the chance. I've never had to empty it while at work, but I have a much lighter flow than I used to, so that may not be the case for everyone. With the disposables, it's really not any different than tampons. You just wrap it in toilet paper and throw it away.

I got one of the "your first period" kits around '92. If I recall correctly, they handed them out in sex ed class (we were divided up by sex the first year or two). There were a couple of booklets that came in them that answered a lot of FAQs about menstruation. I'm fairly certain the kits were put together by manufacturers of feminine products, so some of them may have something similar available through their web sites.

In case you can't tell, I'm a big fan of non-disposables. :) I have two - a neon green MeLuna ring-stem and a Diva Cup. The Diva Cup was the first one I bought and is my favorite, but I decided I'd buy a new cup every year or two to support the industry and try different brands and features (for instance, the ring-stem really makes sense to me, but there are other kinds and some women even prefer to cut them off entirely). I think it's awesome they come in colors. :laugh:

Any other questions?

Danisty

07-29-2010, 11:52 PM

I got one of the "your first period" kits around '92. If I recall correctly, they handed them out in sex ed class (we were divided up by sex the first year or two). There were a couple of booklets that came in them that answered a lot of FAQs about menstruation. I'm fairly certain the kits were put together by manufacturers of feminine products, so some of them may have something similar available through their web sites.I'm just curious what age you were at that time. What grade was this in? Mostly I'm curious to know if they actually handed those out early enough to matter.

Napoleptic

07-30-2010, 12:27 AM

I'm just curious what age you were at that time. What grade was this in? Mostly I'm curious to know if they actually handed those out early enough to matter.

Fifth grade. That was plenty of time for me at least.

Solaris

08-05-2010, 10:18 PM

I want to like the idea of this, but I cannot yet seem to do it. I use cloth diapers on my baby, but feel opposed to using cloth for myself -- mostly out of habit and social conditioning I'd say.

Feel free to try and convince me. I'm pretty into green living. I use vinegar for pretty much all household cleaning. I use it in my laundry. I use a coconut based laundry soap (Charlie's Soap). I use the greenest dish detergents I can find (currently BioKleen or Seventh Generation). We eat organic as much as possible (it's not perfect, but I like less chemicals). We designed the baby's room to be as green as possible within our budget (bamboo floors, VOC free paint, real wood furniture).

Storm

08-06-2010, 08:31 AM

kita

08-06-2010, 08:46 AM

I was all over Instead when it first came out, but had a couple of spills and went back to ob. When it worked it was great, so I'd be willing to try it again. I could have just been doing it wrong.

Archaic Smile

08-06-2010, 10:09 AM

I had issues with mine too at first, but after a while I got the hang of it. I don't think I'll ever go back to using tampons; too much waste, inconvenience, and expense.

stasis

08-06-2010, 10:35 AM

Wouldn't this be sort of like storing a bowl of soup in your pants? Doesn't it slosh around?

Silverity

08-06-2010, 10:55 AM

Wouldn't this be sort of like storing a bowl of soup in your pants? Doesn't it slosh around?

I choked on my coffee reading that. I'm going to hazard a guess that it doesn't 'slosh', I mean, one, I think that thing should be deep enough inside you that it won't move, and anything inside of it should stay where it is (gravity and all). (I'm still chuckling over your word usage)

Archaic Smile

08-06-2010, 11:01 AM

Wouldn't this be sort of like storing a bowl of soup in your pants? Doesn't it slosh around?

As long as you keep your knees locked together, no problem.

Solaris

08-06-2010, 11:31 AM

It's not cloth. It's a plastic cup that catches the blood.

Yes, I know. I'm sorry, I replied while tired and left out part of the thought there. Oops! I was getting at the idea that I find both this and reusable menstrual cloth to be not preferable.

Storm

08-06-2010, 09:51 PM

Wouldn't this be sort of like storing a bowl of soup in your pants? Doesn't it slosh around?

You push it back far enough that it sits behind the pubic bone. Plus, there isn't actually that much blood. Perhaps a few thimblefuls over several hours. Although, all women are different.

Still Standing

08-06-2010, 10:31 PM

Been using the Diva Cup for nearly 10 years now and expect to hit my menopause with it. Most of the time (except when I'm going swimming, etc.), I use it in combination with disposable pads (wouldn't dare touch the washable ones) in case of spills. Never had issues with it in public bathrooms. I just empty it, wipe it off and insert it again. Saves a lot of money, is eco-friendly, holds more liquid than the tampons and probably has less health risks (re: no toxic shock syndrome).

EDIT: And for those of you who are wondering about the hygiene and the washing of it, you clean it with soap and water whenever possible at emptying time, and after your period, you soak it in hot water and vinegar for a while, then pop it back into the cute little pouch.

LifesEcstasy

08-06-2010, 10:40 PM

I know of these devices but have no use for them whatsoever. My flow consists of one super-light pad per month for a total of one day. I've not used tampons for almost 20yrs because it's just not worth the hassle. One packet of 12 pads lasts me a year so why would I bother? Also not a big fan of jamming stuff (non-penis stuff) in my vag...call me coy.

I can't believe there is a whole blog about it, and I started reading it but it was too hilarious for words. Pee'd myself laughing. I especially like the ones with loops on the end, what so you can hang it on your keychain..?:laugh: and OMG! Did anyone check the massive size of the Yuuki cup...:scared:

Elena

08-07-2010, 04:39 AM

Heard of them, but never given them a go. Might just to see how they are.

adastra

08-07-2010, 11:19 AM

I can't believe there is a whole blog about it, and I started reading it but it was too hilarious for words. Pee'd myself laughing. I especially like the ones with loops on the end, what so you can hang it on your keychain..?:laugh: and OMG! Did anyone check the massive size of the Yuuki cup...:scared:

What's so hilarious about it? The loops are there to make it easier to remove. And the Yuuki comes in a larger size for larger women, or those who have had children. Vaginas aren't one-size-fits-all; you're female and you should already know that. But considering the fact that you think menstrual cups are "jammed" in, and you find that blog so funny...maybe it's just a question of maturity.

floramacivor

08-07-2010, 02:33 PM

I was all over Instead when it first came out, but had a couple of spills and went back to ob. When it worked it was great, so I'd be willing to try it again. I could have just been doing it wrong.

They say that whether you're successful using Instead is no indication of how you'd do with a "real" cup. Lots of people have problems with Instead(s?) but have no problems with a cup. Same concept, yet they're apparently very different.

LifesEcstasy

08-07-2010, 04:23 PM

...maybe it's just a question of maturity.

Yeah maybe, or maybe I just don't take life so deadly serious. Yes, yes I know...far be it from me to poke fun at anything related to female hygiene. :rolleyes: Now excuse me while I vacate the thread so you can all get back to being deadly serious about silicone cups.

rara avis

08-07-2010, 04:39 PM

I had a steep learning curve back in the day with tampons, which has left me leery. (I use them successfully now, of course, but I'm not too excited about experimentation. And I still can't do the ones without an applicator.)

This cup thing sounds interesting, but if anyone can get something completely stuck in there, it's me. :/

ehares

08-07-2010, 05:41 PM

I don't know what the normal version of this issue being considered is because I get stuck on my innate disgust for gobs of cloth absorbing liquids and festering.

Sure, irrational, but it spawned an immediate attachment to these cups the very second I learnt of them.

Now I am left with the awkward “cup talk” with girlfriends, as I have yet to date anyone who already used them and do at times feel the need to make such things my business.

I suppose the major drawback would be never having spare tampons/napkins to hand to someone in a dramatic ice/tension breaking moment of vulnerability in a public toilet, but so far as I can tell that only happens in ridiculous films.

Dasein

08-07-2010, 05:43 PM

Wow. I need to grow up. I saw the title of this thread, and thought a menstrual cup was something completely different.

khadi

08-07-2010, 05:58 PM

I suppose the major drawback would be never having spare tampons/napkins to hand to someone in a dramatic ice/tension breaking moment of vulnerability in a public toilet, but so far as I can tell that only happens in ridiculous films.

Oh it's happened to me.

Dru

08-07-2010, 06:27 PM

no. that's disgusting.

fokalina

08-07-2010, 06:34 PM

My flow consists of one super-light pad per month for a total of one day. I've not used tampons for almost 20yrs because it's just not worth the hassle. One packet of 12 pads lasts me a year so why would I bother?

Is that normal? If so, I'm jealous. And I'd agree that you have no use for them.

I find this thread interesting. The more I read, the more I think I may try one.

Edit: By "normal" I mean healthy, within the average range.

ehares

08-07-2010, 06:46 PM

Oh it's happened to me.

Oh, don't even tempt me!

I suppose I could stuff a small one in my pocket-sized first aid kit.

firebee

08-07-2010, 08:21 PM

Threw caution to the wind and tried the Diva Cup yesterday.

Results inconclusive; it ended up being slightly after the end of my period, so the "leaks or doesn't leak" question went essentially unanswered. I was reasonably satisfied with the general experience, although I was definitely aware of the thing; I got the same sort of vaguely pinchy discomfort with it as I usually get from having stuff up in there. Removal was a tiny bit lacking in grace, particularly as I was being quite cautious about keeping the suction released. I imagine I probably would have made quite a mess out of my hand had this been an actual period.

IUD seems to still be in place, and I don't think it's all that likely that it's really truly imperiled by the cup given a degree of sensible caution; my strings don't tend to dangle, and I don't see all that much force being applied in a IUD-sucking direction unless one just goes and pops the thing out like a cork or something. I figure this for a case of lawyeritis.

khadi

08-07-2010, 09:07 PM

Threw caution to the wind ... slightly after the end of my period

Risky, that :p

I was definitely aware of the thing; I got the same sort of vaguely pinchy discomfort with it as I usually get from having stuff up in there.

Yeah, sometimes I can feel it, sometimes not. Depends on my crampiness and placement.

Napoleptic

08-07-2010, 09:43 PM

One thing I guess I hadn't mentioned is the learning curve - it was probably into my third period with the non-disposable before I really got the hang of it. I never had leaks, but there were some awkward removals and insertions. The key is to give it a few months to get used to it. If you are particularly concerned, you can use it on your light days only or on the days that fall on weekends or even just do dry runs.

Wouldn't this be sort of like storing a bowl of soup in your pants? Doesn't it slosh around?

I hope I didn't wake the neighbors laughing! That was hilarious. And no, no sloshing. :)

My flow consists of one super-light pad per month for a total of one day.

Wow, that is just not fair! Now I know the sentiment behind the looks I get when I tell women that on the rare occasion I have cramps, it almost never feels stronger than a case of gas.

They say that whether you're successful using Instead is no indication of how you'd do with a "real" cup. Lots of people have problems with Instead(s?) but have no problems with a cup. Same concept, yet they're apparently very different.

Definitely. They're a completely different animal. The only leaks I ever had were with a disposable. The drawback to the disposables is that depending on how full your bowels are, it can affect how well the cup seals.

I'm a man, and I would drink out of a menstrual cup, because I would imagine it tastes and resembles tomato soup.

Not tomato soup, though there is a food it does resemble. I'd share, but that might be crossing the line into too much information, even for an NT. ;D

Now I am left with the awkward “cup talk” with girlfriends, as I have yet to date anyone who already used them and do at times feel the need to make such things my business.

Tampons now seem so dark ages to me that I feel like women need to be informed - it's hard to contain my enthusiasm sometimes, but when you go from heavy days where you wear dark pants and run panicked to the bathroom to forgetting you're even having your period at all, you're just not going to go back.

firebee

08-07-2010, 09:54 PM

Risky, that :p

One works with what one has; I was hoping for at least some continued period life but alas evidently not.

Oddly enough, I'm not so much concerned with suddenly becoming a horror-movie blood fountain as I am with finding myself with a new copper-plated keychain -- or worse, perpetrating a negligent anti-homicide. It does say on the package, after all, not to do the very thing that I'm taking up doing.

masterpeach

08-08-2010, 11:14 AM

I had heard about it before and, after having read this thread, ordered two. This is going to be an interesting experiment.

floramacivor

08-08-2010, 11:47 AM

I had heard about it before and, after having read this thread, ordered two.

Why two?

masterpeach

08-08-2010, 11:58 AM

Silverity

08-08-2010, 08:11 PM

I checked some other online forums and recommendations - I like to store one at the office and one at home. I just want to be prepared. (It's always good to have something in spare, like my set of freebra (To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.).)

I'm not going to lie, I burst out laughing when I read that they come in floral and heart shapes. Ohhh boy.

Though I must second, I keep extras of most things at work or school, or have little 'emergency' kits in all my bags. You never know! If not for myself then for another damsel in distress.

Aurelia

08-08-2010, 08:31 PM

Absolutely not.

countrygirl

08-11-2010, 07:31 PM

I bought one (Diva Cup) a year ago and was very excited to try it only to find out I was pregnant with my third child. However, I do look forward to trying it when my flow comes back and only using my washables at night.

dontmesswithme

08-11-2010, 08:12 PM

They sound like a great idea. I first heard of them a few months ago but I haven't got around to buying one. I really don't know that much about them. I guess I'll Google them. I'm a nude art model so I'm officially "The Queen Of Tampons" when it's my time of the month and I have to work a lot that week (not fun, but I've gotta work--male models don't know how lucky they are that they don't have to worry about these things). But I only wear tampons when I'm working, as they are not healthy to have in your body for very long. I actually get dizzy sometimes when I'm wearing them, which worries me. Pads are better for my health but it's messier and not great for the environment. The cups sound like a viable alternative. I just have to go out and buy one now.

missh

08-14-2010, 10:21 PM

Napoleptic

08-16-2010, 12:45 PM

This is quite interesting. I didn't know they existed but would definitely give them a try.

I think like most ladies mentioned here, my biggest concern would be the "spills" but wouldn't mind trying it once at least.

That's exactly why I've converted to non-disposable cups. Once I got past the learning curve, I've had no spills. None. Though obviously every woman is vastly different from the next, so everyone will need to find out for themselves.

Bottom line for anyone still thinking about it, you'll just never know unless you give it a try. ;)

elegantlyme

08-16-2010, 01:09 PM

I'm rather interested in them because you aren't throwing away so much stuff. I'd rather not throw things away, anyways.

khadi

08-16-2010, 09:55 PM

Once I got past the learning curve, I've had no spills. None.

Me neither. Though "spills" strikes me as a weird word in this context. Or are we continuing with the "bowl of soup"?

The cup can create an air- and fluid-tight seal.

I'm rather interested in them because you aren't throwing away so much stuff.

Yeah.

Anyone know how many products an average woman goes through in a year?

Still Standing

08-17-2010, 08:40 AM

Me neither. Though "spills" strikes me as a weird word in this context. Or are we continuing with the "bowl of soup"?

The cup can create an air- and fluid-tight seal.

At times I have difficulties getting it properly sealed, hence the disposable pads to play it safe. Also, if you keep it in there for too long and forget it for whatever reason, especially during the first few days, the thing does start to spill over at some point.

Napoleptic

08-18-2010, 07:22 PM

Me neither. Though "spills" strikes me as a weird word in this context. Or are we continuing with the "bowl of soup"?

Should have said leaks. Though it applies to both, really - just depends on how heavy the day in question is.

invicta

08-21-2010, 09:39 AM

I just got one, and was amused at the measurement lines on it, so that you know exactly how much fluid is in it. I giggled at the idea of using it for recipes. I like the idea of always having it 'stocked' as opposed to having to buy tampons every month. It seems a lot more efficient.

Ilara

08-21-2010, 08:33 PM

It is certainly intriguing, as I absolutely hate dealing with pads and tampons. I can with no real trouble, but somebody else already mentioned the whole 'absorbing and festering' thing, and I second the distaste for that.

I hadn't heard of such things at all. In the next little while I will be giving them some serious consideration.

Snowdragon

08-22-2010, 03:05 PM

Still Standing

08-22-2010, 03:23 PM

I first heard about them in '08. My only concerns are them getting stuck (is it really possible?) and being able to insert them (I've had the same problem with OB; just because it's invented by a woman doctor doesn't mean it's going to work.) and removing them. I might give them a shot if they came with an applicator.

No, they can't get stuck. I mean, stuck where? How? They're not tampons so they don't come with an applicator either. Fairly easy to insert too. Getting it out can be a bit tricky at first, but it doesn't require a long learning curve.

dandylion

08-24-2010, 08:23 PM

Menstrual cups really aren't as bad as I thought they were going to be. I'm somewhat afraid to use products like tampons that stay inside for long periods of time, and I was nervous about putting in a menstrual cup myself, so my boyfriend inserted one for me (he even bought the whole pack of menstrual cups without me ever asking... pffft). It kind of hurt at first, but that's probably just due to man handling and big hands; it was comfortable otherwise, and I didn't feel it in me at all. I think I'll be using this or tampons (finally tried that recently too thanks to overly helpful boyfriend) over pads from now on... at least, once I can get over putting it in myself. :scared:

firebee

08-24-2010, 09:18 PM

So far slasher movie factor is zero, and I don't yet have a new copper keychain.

It's hard to judge where I'm at in my cycle, given the novel means of measurement, but I've definitely passed the "spotting" stage and am perhaps a couple days out from peak flow (which, admittedly, is something of an "Open the faucets!" event for me) . So far, I've had no leakage whatsoever and am fairly secure that there won't be, for this level of flow and up to perhaps twice that, while emptying the cup in the morning and in the evening.

I'm not quite sure how to judge future prospects, as it's somewhat tricky to convert between units of cup and units of "practical safe use of Always long-with-wings", and I haven't yet managed to get the cup close to full so I don't know how removal goes in that circumstance. At the moment, my removal process involves substantial collapse of the cup in order to make sure I've broken the suction; my imagination somewhat boggles at the prospect of what might happen when the thing is full.

I thought before I started this experiment that I was relatively familiar with my inner bits, but apparently there are depths to which I have not been in my business before. About which... probably best to take my word for it. Weirdly, it's been kind of odd adapting to the freeeeeedom! of being definitively on the rag and yet not actually on the rag; I find myself wondering why I feel slightly off in the middle sort of region as if I'm on my period... and wait a minute, I am! And also, upon removing the cup I've a couple times started to have the reaction of "Uh-oh, I'm bleeding... have I displaced something? Oh, wait a minute, that's actually how it's supposed to work."

Ilara

08-26-2010, 09:23 AM

I've decided to give it a shot. I still have two to three decades of periods to think about, and the quantity of garbage that would entail with pads and tampons boggles the mind. If it works, I'm all for it. Will get back to the thread with assessment of functionality.

Kricket

08-26-2010, 01:50 PM

This thread inspired me; I'm trying the disposable kind now. Still getting the hang of it. Overall I'm loving not using pads (never did feel comfy with tampons). I am getting some leaks though- any common mistakes I could try to avoid to achieve better coverage?

I'm probably going to get a non-disposable cup after this. Never could fit a pad in my pocket, so at work I was always bringing my purse to the restroom and people would assume I was leaving for the day. Frustrating. I'll do pretty much anything to avoid that.

adastra

08-26-2010, 07:10 PM

This thread inspired me; I'm trying the disposable kind now. Still getting the hang of it. Overall I'm loving not using pads (never did feel comfy with tampons). I am getting some leaks though- any common mistakes I could try to avoid to achieve better coverage?

You might be doing one of these things wrong:

Wearing the wrong size - maybe you need a bigger one?
Not putting it in far enough
Not turning it slightly once it's in - this creates a seal
Not emptying often enough (it will overflow and leak if you don't)

Kricket

08-27-2010, 07:16 AM

Aha! I think it's the third thing, not turning it slightly. Or possibly not putting it in far enough... although at a certain point, it stops going in and just starts bending to accommodate my finger, and once I stop pushing it pops back into shape, if that makes sense.

floramacivor

08-27-2010, 07:25 PM

You might be doing one of these things wrong:

Wearing the wrong size - maybe you need a bigger one?
Not putting it in far enough
Not turning it slightly once it's in - this creates a seal
Not emptying often enough (it will overflow and leak if you don't)

Using the disposable kind?

I've read that the disposable kind are nowhere near as good as the regular non-disposal ones. And even the non-disposable kinds can need adjustments - like using it inside out for a better fit.

Artio

08-30-2010, 11:47 AM

I've got endometriosis and pain was too bad when using the cup.

Kricket

08-31-2010, 01:52 PM

Using the disposable kind?

I've read that the disposable kind are nowhere near as good as the regular non-disposal ones. And even the non-disposable kinds can need adjustments - like using it inside out for a better fit.

Interesting. I'm thinking I'll order a non-disposable sometime over the next month or so and see how it works out. It's difficult to judge what brand to get though... even with all the reviews I've read, it's hard to figure out what to look for.

JustMel

08-31-2010, 02:43 PM

This thread has provided interesting information for the girls in my house and family. However, it's made me glad I don't have to worry about those things anymore..

There's some unexpected side benefits to having had a hysterectomy at the age of 25.

firebee

08-31-2010, 10:40 PM

Slasher movie factor no longer zero.

Evidently my peak flow is at the point where the cup can no longer be left in overnight. Evidently also exceeding the cup's capacity at some point causes the seal to fail. Evidently also also if one is horizontal when the seal fails, the entire contents of the cup are emptied in relatively short order.

On the bright side, this makes a damn good alarm clock.

Haildancer

09-04-2010, 01:22 PM

Oh yikes, firebee! That's never a fun mess to wake up to. I'm also a Peak Flow gal...I understand completely. I get very strange looks when I buy the Extra-Super-Duper variety of tampon.

Strangely enough, when I first read the poll question I picked "ew! No way!" But after reading this thread and the DivaCup FAQ site, I think I might actually give it a try. I'm so sick of sitting in a lecture thinking "oh, shit...am I leaking?!"

Question is: Can I find it at a retail store, or do I have to order it?

altoid

09-04-2010, 01:33 PM

You can get the diva cup at wholefoods. I'm not sure what other stores may stock it.

I just picked up one myself a couple of days ago. Only one minor peak-flow-related incident so far (fortunately during the day), but I think once I'm better able to time when it should be changed it won't be much of an issue. Insertion is less goof-proof than more traditional methods, but it doesn't take too long to get the hang of it.

masterpeach

09-04-2010, 01:39 PM

I tried to use it for the first time last week. I think I ordered the wrong size (too large) or pushed it in too deep - I had a hard time getting it out again. I ordered a smaller one and will give it another try next time.

Haildancer

09-04-2010, 07:01 PM

Well, in true INTJ fashion, I just spend the last couple of hours researching.

I found a site (To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.) whose owner has tested a lot of the cups out there and posted her reviews. After reading her experiences and many of the comments on each of the products, I've narrowed it down to the Lady Cup or Fleurcup.

It's funny, when you think you don't have any other options, you just put discomfort out of your head (at least I do!). But since I've been thinking about it...I really HATE tampons and pads! I'm excited to have another option that I don't have to spend $$$$ on every month. Thanks, ladies!

Kricket

09-04-2010, 09:27 PM

For the sake of science, I have ordered a Moon Cup. Didn't get a Diva Cup because I was worried about the length (I am somewhere between average and short in that area). It should get here in another week or so... that'll give me plenty of time for a dry run test before my next cycle starts.

Ilara

09-07-2010, 09:41 AM

Am currently trying my new DivaCup out...

So far, so good. Seems like I haven't got placement quite right yet, as I had a leak overnight (and the cup wasn't even sort of close to full). Fortunately, I was wearing a pad--it seemed like a good idea on the first run, especially in my boyfriend's bed.

Hmm.

I'll see how it goes for the rest of the week.

brdmadgrl82

09-07-2010, 05:52 PM

I'm sticking to my organic min absorbancy tampons (with a string)! I'm so ocd I change them every time...I probably go through two boxes a cycle...I do enough for the environment. I was just glad I didn't have to deal with this when I was pooping in a 6in hole in the mountains where I had to take the tp back down with me.

REMwoman

09-07-2010, 09:03 PM

Napoleptic

09-08-2010, 09:32 AM

Strangely enough, when I first read the poll question I picked "ew! No way!" But after reading this thread and the DivaCup FAQ site, I think I might actually give it a try. I'm so sick of sitting in a lecture thinking "oh, shit...am I leaking?!"

Question is: Can I find it at a retail store, or do I have to order it?

If you're looking specifically for the DivaCup, try their store finder page:
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I tried to use it for the first time last week. I think I ordered the wrong size (too large) or pushed it in too deep - I had a hard time getting it out again. I ordered a smaller one and will give it another try next time.

The key to getting it out is to break the suction - push the side of the cup close to the rim inward, away from the vaginal walls. Bearing down can help, as well as drying off the stem (ball- and ring-stemmed cups give extra grip if that's part of the problem). And relax - if you start to get nervous, go do something else for a while to take your mind off it.

I found a site (To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.) whose owner has tested a lot of the cups out there and posted her reviews.

Thank you for the link! For those of you with questions on sizing - as the page states, there is unfortunately no one-size-fits-all cup - here's another link that lists length, width, capacity (note that several cups hold more than the uber tampons), and shape:
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This site also has tons and tons of information - some of it is harder to find than other, but overall a good place to go when you have questions.

And here's a spreadsheet you can actually reorder by feature:
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And if you're concerned about flexibility/firmness/stiffness of the cup, here's another link:
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What are you supposed to do, come out of the cubicle with your pants around your ankles and wash it in the basin? Or just empty it and put it back in, which is really gross.

Many women carry bottled water with them to rinse it out. Or you can wipe it down with toilet paper and reinsert it, and rinse properly later.

Also, I know this is not always a comfortable subject, so if anyone has questions you don't want the entire forum to see feel free to message me. I'm quite excited that many of you have decided to give it a try - I wish you luck in finding the perfect cup! :)

Snowdragon

09-11-2010, 07:18 PM

I've got endometriosis and pain was too bad when using the cup.

Do they really make your cramps worse? If they do, then forget it.

Ted

09-11-2010, 07:38 PM

For women who prefer to stick with pads, you should probably check this out:

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Great product by a company that's almost 4 years old. Most people would never have heard of it. There is a video in the link but I personally don't like that one too much. Definitely worth checking out though.

Napoleptic

09-12-2010, 08:55 AM

Do they really make your cramps worse? If they do, then forget it.

Some women have experienced decreased cramps with the cup (I'm one of them), and some haven't. The thing to keep in mind is that each woman is waaaaaaaay different from the next (also, Artio said she has endometriosis, so that may be an additional factor as well).

For instance, I've known women who have cramps so bad they vomit and/or pass out, but never had PMS. I, on the other hand, have never had cramps anywhere close to being that bad, but my experience with PMS leaves most women baffled - let's just say that most PMS days I'd trade it for debilitating cramps in a heartbeat; it's so bad that my boss has gone from saying PMS is all in a woman's head to keeping an eye on the calendar for my cycle. :scared:

Anyway, back to your question - bottom line, there's just no way of knowing without trying, because each woman is different (definitely talk to your doctor if you have endometriosis or any other condition!). I tried them and will never go back, but other women have tried them and went back to pads/tampons. Ultimately you have to go with what works - I mostly just want women to be aware of this option. You can't try it if you don't know it exists! :)

Speaking of unknown options, most women don't seem to be aware that you can actually make your own reusable pads. I can post info about that as well - it's actually how I found out about menstrual cups in the first place. If anyone's interested, just let me know. :)

Ilara

09-12-2010, 05:51 PM

The week using the cup was certainly interesting. I would say that overall, there's probably a learning curve.

I had some trouble getting it to open, for example. And some other trouble forming a seal. If I can work the kinks out of that, I think I'll be a happy woman. It also seems to have more than enough capacity for my needs.

I'd be interested in the reusable pads info. I'm not sure that the cup would be practical for the tail end of my period, where I just get spotting for a few days (four-day period followed by two or three days of really irregular spotting).

Snowdragon

09-13-2010, 09:11 PM

For instance, I've known women who have cramps so bad they vomit and/or pass out, but never had PMS. I, on the other hand, have never had cramps anywhere close to being that bad, but my experience with PMS leaves most women baffled - let's just say that most PMS days I'd trade it for debilitating cramps in a heartbeat; it's so bad that my boss has gone from saying PMS is all in a woman's head to keeping an eye on the calendar for my cycle. :scared:

Wanna trade?

stein

09-13-2010, 09:47 PM

I bought a Diva cup and used it for the first time last month. I bought is specifically to go camping with, I didn't want the frustration of having to deal with tampons or pads in the bush. I actually bought it the morning I left, and I was surprised at well it worked out for me. I just took a bottle of water, the soap and a little container to wash it in with me when I when I needed to and I had no problems keeping it clean. I only had a little bit of leakage on the first full day out when I had to change it in the middle of the day. Otherwise it worked very well and I won't be going back to disposables.

masterpeach

09-14-2010, 03:08 AM

The key to getting it out is to break the suction - push the side of the cup close to the rim inward, away from the vaginal walls. Bearing down can help, as well as drying off the stem (ball- and ring-stemmed cups give extra grip if that's part of the problem). And relax - if you start to get nervous, go do something else for a while to take your mind off it.

I know - but my fingers were too short to even reach the rim. Another problem was indeed to relax - I was already late. It's not the best idea to try something new when you are in a hurry. Yesterday my Fleurcup arrived. It is smaller and shorter - I am curious about the next try. I worry about the many comments on leakage though.

adastra

09-19-2010, 07:29 PM

I have used them. They often leak. I tried as many fixes for that as I could find, but no luck. As well, they are awkward to clean and reinsert unless you are at home. What are you supposed to do, come out of the cubicle with your pants around your ankles and wash it in the basin? Or just empty it and put it back in, which is really gross. Either way, it wasn't practical, so I stopped using it.

I'm not going to try to change your mind, but I will respond just for the benefit of others who might be curious. Unless you have an insanely heavy flow, you should just wait until you get home to empty it. If I'm in public, I wait. As far as work goes, after the first day, I can go a full eight hour shift without having to touch mine. If you absolutely must empty it in a public restroom then just dump it into the toilet. Wipe it out with some toilet paper and reinsert. If you carry a purse then bring some hand sanitizer and some wipes to clean things up a bit.

It's only as gross as you want it to be. Just plan ahead a little. I've never had a problem keeping things clean, even away from home.

Kricket

09-20-2010, 12:29 PM

Finally got my Keeper Mooncup in the mail and am testing it out today. Thing is awesome so far! It is about three days until my period starts- I think I'll wear it during those days just to get used to inserting.

Comfort: much more comfortable for me than the disposables. Not that the disposables were bad, it's just that with this I don't have ten minutes of feeling awkward pressure after putting it in.

I did make one mistake when inserting the first time. I had a really bad grip on the folded cup, and it popped open just past the labia, which caused some pain because things were getting stretched that are not used to getting stretched. I took a moment to relax, re-inserted expecting similar pain, and was pleasantly surprised when I could barely feel it open in the correct position. It really feels great.

I'll probably snip off some or all of the pull tab eventually, but it doesn't even bother me at full length. If the cup works well during my actual period I think I'll get a second one to keep at work. Currently I have a compulsion to make dozens more adorable little keeper bags...

ShuTheDoor

09-25-2010, 04:15 PM

I'm not thrilled at the idea; I'm squeamish enough at the thought of dealing with tampons. It might be best considering the lower back pain I get each month tends to be considerable; my girlfriends used to be jealous of my cramp-free periods until they learned that I couldn't knock out the back pain with heating pads and ibuprofen. I'll be sticking with pads.

adastra

09-26-2010, 08:42 PM

Ilara

10-05-2010, 05:40 AM

A question for the women who're more experienced with these things:

It seems to be putting pressure on my bladder. Placement issue, or just the nature of the cup?

ShuTheDoor

10-06-2010, 12:39 AM

I don't mean to jump in your business, but have you been checked for endometriosis? Lower back pain is a common symptom.

It's been suggested to me before, but I don't have reason to think it applied to me. I've had back pain instead of cramps since I began menstruating; and back pain is only one of many symptoms and I don't have any of the others.

Thanks for the thought though! :cool: Never hurts to inquire.

amanda

10-06-2010, 04:58 PM

non-disposable and it has changed my life. i haven't bought tampons in about 8 years. I thought it'd be gross too, but it really isn't bad at all. I would say its not half as messy and gross as tampons/pads sitting in your garbage can or clogging your plumbing. I've never had a problem using it where ever I've been - even went horseback riding Jamaica and had to empty it in an outhouse. Piece of cake - if there's toilet paper, there's no problem.

Napoleptic

10-08-2010, 06:29 AM

A question for the women who're more experienced with these things:

It seems to be putting pressure on my bladder. Placement issue, or just the nature of the cup?

I haven't noticed that being a problem for me, but a quick search online reveals that it's a fairly common problem. Women who've had to figure that out suggest placing it slightly higher or being sure to insert the cup so that there's a slight tilt to it toward the small of your back, rather than having it sight completely vertically. It sounds like it's just a placement issue, but if you can't get it figured out, you could call the manufacturer or post your question on a menstrual cup forum.

masterpeach

10-20-2010, 03:33 AM

After some misadventures with my LadyCup, I ordered a FleurCup (To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.) - the ridges of the stem make it easier to get the cup out again. It's still a hassle, but I guess I just need some practice. No spills so far during wearing it overnight.

I think I am going to like it (although I am not sure how it will work when I am in the outdoors).

Vogue

10-20-2010, 09:08 AM

I have a friend who is an avid outdoorswoman and she swears by menstrual cups. They minimize waste during her period, and she's not much of a waster anyways.

I've thought about trying one, but there is a slight feeling of 'that might be gross' in my head.

Supaslim

10-20-2010, 10:09 AM

If I didn't live in a dorm with community bathrooms only, I would probably give it a shot. Maybe I will over the summer. I have a very heavy flow from start to finish, so I burn through 3/4 of a box of tampons a month. It would be great to break that cycle

Ilara

11-02-2010, 05:15 PM

I think I've finally gotten the hang of this thing.

Now that I'm used to it (there's definitely a learning curve; I clearly didn't know as much as I thought I did about my personal shape etc), it's fantastic. No leaks. No mess. So tidy, and none of that squicky festering fabric/cotton, which I have never liked.

Yeah, I'm very happy with my cup. If anybody else is still trying theirs out and getting leaks and whatnot, fiddle around with the placement a bit and see how that changes things. I had to adjust placement to myself personally, rather than to the instructions, but now that I've got a good sense of placement, it's great.

I'm also pretty happy with the whole no-waste thing. I used to make a lot of garbage with my pads and tampons. This is a lot less wasteful.

I've officially been converted; if I could change my vote to "using the cup now and never going back", I would.

Kricket

11-04-2010, 09:58 AM

Ditto, Ilara. Freaking awesome. I still get some leaks on the first day, but one thin travel pad lasts me all day now (vs. 5-6 overnight pads per day)... I can't wait until I can ditch even that. It used to be that I would have a mostly empty trash can in my bathroom all month, then in a week I'd empty it two or three times. Now I empty it once every couple of months and it's glorious.

New question: I'm considering getting a Mirena IUD if my doctor lets me. Has anyone ever used a menstrual cup with an IUD inserted? Would the string or whatever cause problems? I realize some people never have a period while using Mirena, but I'm not certain how it would go for me.

Napoleptic

11-04-2010, 12:57 PM

Apologies to whomever was interested in the link to making your own fabric menstrual pads - I haven't been able to find one I thought was worth posting. Most of them were "fold a towel and pin it to your panties" quality.

I think I've finally gotten the hang of this thing.

Now that I'm used to it (there's definitely a learning curve; I clearly didn't know as much as I thought I did about my personal shape etc), it's fantastic. No leaks. No mess. So tidy, and none of that squicky festering fabric/cotton, which I have never liked.

This is how it was for me - I was uncertain the first month or two I used it, but after I got past the learning curve, there's no way in hell I'll go back. It seems so dark ages now! I figured if any women were likely to test it out, it would be NT women, and I'm so glad some of you were willing to give it a shot!

Yeah, I'm very happy with my cup. If anybody else is still trying theirs out and getting leaks and whatnot, fiddle around with the placement a bit and see how that changes things. I had to adjust placement to myself personally, rather than to the instructions, but now that I've got a good sense of placement, it's great.

I ditched the MeLuna and went back to the Diva Cup, and was surprised how much higher the MeLuna sat. I had to tug the Diva Cup back down a few times because I'd gotten it in too high.

Ditto, Ilara. Freaking awesome. I still get some leaks on the first day, but one thin travel pad lasts me all day now (vs. 5-6 overnight pads per day)... I can't wait until I can ditch even that. It used to be that I would have a mostly empty trash can in my bathroom all month, then in a week I'd empty it two or three times. Now I empty it once every couple of months and it's glorious.

New question: I'm considering getting a Mirena IUD if my doctor lets me. Has anyone ever used a menstrual cup with an IUD inserted? Would the string or whatever cause problems? I realize some people never have a period while using Mirena, but I'm not certain how it would go for me.

I also like that I'm not wasting money on tampons. The cup paid for itself in a few months.

Don't know about the Mirena IUD, but you can try asking on some of the forums I posted links to.

callalilly

11-04-2010, 01:25 PM

Have never tried it, or tampons. But I think I will give both a try :)

mieu

11-04-2010, 01:26 PM

This is interesting, I'd be willing to give it a try but (of course) I use a Nuvaring as my preferred form of contraception. I'd probably have to do tampons if I'm spotting or if my period goes longer than a week. I don't like to take the risk of somehow conceiving in the window of time between when the hormone begins tapering off and when I actually get my period, so I remove the ring on-time and wait for my period--downside is that I don't want to wait longer than a week to put in a new ring (at the fervent advice of my GYN, I could ovulate after 1 week) so bleeding and 'ring in' typically overlap for a couple of days depending on how long it took me to get my period.

Something about playing musical chairs with plastic things in my coochie in a public bathroom seems to increase the likelihood that I'll get something on my clothes at some point.