Photo by Lena Cup

A menstrual cup is a flexible and reusable silicone cup that’s inserted into the vagina to collect period blood.

When inserted properly, a menstrual cup sits comfortably below your cervix and gives you a leak-free period. You won’t feel a thing, bringing comfort and peace of mind. In fewer words, period freedom!

Some refer to it as a ‘tulip’ because of the stem at the bottom. The stem has its purpose, though. It helps in locating the menstrual cup when removing it from the vagina.

What are menstrual cups made of?

Most menstrual cups are made of soft, medical-grade silicone. But some aren’t, especially the cheap ones. So be sure to do your research.

Unlike regular silicone, medical-grade silicone is produced to meet the highest requirements of the medical industry, making it safe to use inside the human body for long hours. Opting for a reliable brand is vital for such an intimate product, as questionable quality may lead to detrimental side effects. 

At Bloody Goodshop, we go the extra mile in curating menstrual cups that are medically safe, tested, and made with high-grade materials only.

Are there different types of menstrual cups?

Yes! Like women, menstrual cups come in different shapes, sizes, and colours. They also differ in firmness.
 

Some period cups are made with active women in mind. So they are firmer and less prone to leakage when doing sports. An example of a firm period cup is the Lena Cup. It has a thicker rim which creates a stronger suction and helps it to stay in place, curbing any fear of leakage.

The AllMatters Cup, Lunette Cup, and Ruby Cup are softer, which make them easier to fold and insert. They are beginner-friendly period cups to try if you’re not comfortable with slipping an object into your vagina.

There is no "perfect" firmness to a period cup. It all depends on your body. A period cup that feels perfect for someone may not be suitable for you.

We did a squish test so you can get an idea of how the period cups compare in firmness. Watch more squish tests here. 

How much blood can a menstrual cup hold?

More blood than any other menstrual product out there. Period.

A typical menstrual cup holds about 25ml of period flow. There are sizes available with capacities ranging from 17 to 33ml. On average, a person bleeds as much as two tablespoons (or 40ml) per cycle.

You can typically use a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours. Of course, that depends on your flow. A heavy flow may require you to upsize or empty the menstrual cup more frequently.

Are menstrual cups sustainable?

You bet! Menstrual cups are reusable, and therefore, eco-friendly. A medical-grade silicone cup can last for as long as 10 years. That saves the earth from tons of sanitary pads and tampons wastage and saves you loads of money.

Getting started with menstrual cups

“What size should I get?”

“How firm should my first cup be?”

It’s perfectly normal to feel lost when choosing your first menstrual cup. That’s why we have the Menstrual Cup Quiz to help you find your best fit.

If we may say, getting your first period cup is a life-changing moment. Give it a few cycles, and you’re all set to live life without your periods holding you back! The learning curve is steep, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll never look back.

Did you know the menstrual cup is an age-old invention? Read to learn more.