For the Ladies only

[AJ]

Potential TMI warning - reader discretion advised...

The post that mentioned bidets inspired me to get a little personal. I made the switch from disposable pads and tampons to a Diva cup a couple years ago and I would never go back! If you're not squeamish about your own body, I highly recommend giving it a try. It feels cleaner than having cotton up in there getting gross,  I don't have to think about it all day, and I don't have to buy disposables anymore. If you can get past the cultural weirdness, I can't recommend it highly enough :)

[Orvell]

Seconded to the MAX.
I switched to a moon cup (UK variety) two years ago and will never, ever go back. It cost $35 and doesn't seem to be exhibiting any wear at all. In terms of down payment for comfort, sustainability, and frugality, it wins on every single level.
It's basically the best kept secret of the bio-female world!

[arebelspy]

Showed the wife, she had never heard of it (nor had I, naturally).  She also said "I don't know if I can get past my cultural qualms about that" but she's usually willing to try something new, so we'll see.  Thanks for the idea anyways!

[Mrs MM]

I got one based on the recommendations from the blog and let's just say it didn't go very well... perhaps I'm missing something?  I had really high hopes and I really wanted it to work for me.

I am not squeamish at all and I think I gave it a good go.  Let's just say removal was ... well ... very complicated.

[Sunflower]

I have a lot of friends who tried them (went to a women's college, we're not squeamish about this sort of thing!) and it seemed like some people loved them and others didn't. One major problem cited was that its hard to change during the day if you don't have access to a private bathroom. But, I'm glad you like it and it's definitely something I'd like to try someday. :-)

[MEJG]

I had one for 3 months in my early twenties.  I could feel it, even when properly inserted and even though I had the correct size.  I'm open to trying again, perhaps it will be more comfortable now that I've had a child.

[chrissyo]

I made the switch to the Moon Cup a few years ago, too, and really like it. I very occasionally have issues with incorrect placement, and can feel it, but I just either deal with it for an hour or two or will remove and re-insert until I get it right.

Mrs MM - I've found removal can sometimes be er... messy (particularly 2-3 days in)... but once you get the technique down, it's usually not much of an issue, IME. I definitely wait to clean it out until I'm in a private bathroom with a sink rather than attempting using a public toilet and water bottle as the packaging suggested I could though!

[October]

Soooo glad I got the hysterectomy. :)  I still feel like I won the lottery.

My partner, however, still has to put up with the monthlies.  I will ask if she's ever considered this as an option.

[Sir Sideburns 'Stash-a-lot]

I know, I know.  Sir Sideburns 'Stash-a-lot is clearly not a lady and was warned to keep out.  You should know that just such a warning will almost surely lead me in though.

Now that I'm here, and since I happen to know a thing or two about the subject, I felt I needed to chime in on behalf of my lady, who has used the Keeper (http://www.gladrags.com/p-17-the-keeper-the-keeper-kit.aspx) for the last several years and loves it.

She actually got a Keeper for all of our lady friends and family for Christmas a few years back and it was received with mixed reviews.

No toxicity worries, it's reusable.  If I were Seņora Sideburns 'Stash-a-lot, I would definitely use one too.

[Mrs MM]

Mrs MM - I've found removal can sometimes be er... messy (particularly 2-3 days in)... but once you get the technique down, it's usually not much of an issue, IME. I definitely wait to clean it out until I'm in a private bathroom with a sink rather than attempting using a public toilet and water bottle as the packaging suggested I could though!

Thanks chrissyo!  The messiness of the removal is not the issue for me.  The issue is gettin' the f'n thing out!!  I might have to get graphic here, but let's just say the diva cup is way too high and way too squeezed in.  I thought I'd be stuck with the thing for the rest of my life.  Removal (the 3 times I attempted it) had me on the verge of tears and was extremely frustrating.  When I finally did grab a hold of the sucker, it seems to be suctioned cupped up there so hard that it was really just sheer luck that I managed to get it out.  I'm talking like 10 minutes or more of working on this task.

Some kind of string attached to the stem might be handy for me, but even so, the suctioned aspect might prove to be a problem.

Insertion is easy, but there's no way I can rotate that thing 360 degrees... it gets sucked up to the void with no chance of twisting or anything.

Anyway, I'm assuming all ladies are sized differently and maybe the size 2 (older than 30, had child) is not right for me?  I'm going to contact the company and see if they'll send me a size 1 to try (since I obviously can't return it).

Did anyone else have this issue?  The whole idea behind this thing is brilliant, so I'm happy to give it another go.  If someone sent me samples of all different kinds, I bet I could find one that worked, but otherwise, the search could be expensive...

[Sparrow]

Diva Cups are fabulous! I've been using mine for two years, and will never go back! One less thing to remember at the store.

Just like trying tampons for the first time, there is a definite period (hah, pun) of initial frustration and failure- it took me about three months to get the technique down.  That sounds really unfun though, Mrs. MM. The only thing I can think of is that maybe the little holes that are there to help reduce the suction were blocked? Filling it with water and capping the top with your hand, then forcing the water out the holes helps with that.

To satisfy the frugality urge for number crunching:
In ten years, you might use around 1680 tampons. Depending on what kind you prefer, that's $200 - $400, for not much effort or sacrifice at all, as I see it!

[kolorado]

Cloth pads are also an option for those that don't like a reusable cup. I made my own from cotton t-shirts and flannel clothing items. I wash cloth diapers so it's no extra effort or energy to have reusable products. ;)
As long as we're getting a bit graphic, it's easier to remove a cup in a squat position. Great for birthing, great for removing the cup. Bear down a little and it should be easy to grab.

[AJ]

I could feel mine when I first got it. Different brands are supposed to feel different, but I was too cheap to keep buying new ones to test that. The Diva Cup had a little plastic nub on the end (ostensibly to help with removal), and I cut this off as short as I could. Voila! I can't feel it anymore (when properly inserted). But, of course, everyone is different. When I was on birth control I used the Nuva Ring without issue, but my BFF couldn't get the thing to stay in. She doesn't want to even try menstrual cups, and I don't blame her.

As far as removal, I wouldn't try to just pull it straight out. I hate the suction feeling (ouch!). I push on one side near the top to break the seal. Then it comes out pretty easy (for me, anyway, ymmv.)

I know, I know.  Sir Sideburns 'Stash-a-lot is clearly not a lady and was warned to keep out.  You should know that just such a warning will almost surely lead me in though.

I'm not bothered by the men-folk...I just wanted you to be properly warned! :)

[chrissyo]

Mrs MM - I've found removal can sometimes be er... messy (particularly 2-3 days in)... but once you get the technique down, it's usually not much of an issue, IME. I definitely wait to clean it out until I'm in a private bathroom with a sink rather than attempting using a public toilet and water bottle as the packaging suggested I could though!

Thanks chrissyo!  The messiness of the removal is not the issue for me.  The issue is gettin' the f'n thing out!!  I might have to get graphic here, but let's just say the diva cup is way too high and way too squeezed in.  I thought I'd be stuck with the thing for the rest of my life.  Removal (the 3 times I attempted it) had me on the verge of tears and was extremely frustrating.  When I finally did grab a hold of the sucker, it seems to be suctioned cupped up there so hard that it was really just sheer luck that I managed to get it out.  I'm talking like 10 minutes or more of working on this task.

Some kind of string attached to the stem might be handy for me, but even so, the suctioned aspect might prove to be a problem.

Insertion is easy, but there's no way I can rotate that thing 360 degrees... it gets sucked up to the void with no chance of twisting or anything.

lol at 'sucked up to the void' :)

The UK version (Moon Cup) has a little stem on the bottom, which you can trim depending on your size. I'm not sure if the Diva Cup is similar? I've found the best technique is to do a bit of pushing (kegals), and then when it gets within fingertip reach, I pinch the cup to break the suction, fold it a little (ie pressing against the middle of the cup with my index finger and then gripping/folding with my thumb and middle finger) and extract. I think mine came with a little diagram illustrating that technique (not sure if yours would have, too?). I'll try Googling for the image later (when I'm not sat in the middle of my office) and post it if I can find it.

Hopefully you''ll have some luck with the company, especially if you make mention of being a blogger :)

[Mrs MM]

lol at 'sucked up to the void' :)

The UK version (Moon Cup) has a little stem on the bottom, which you can trim depending on your size. I'm not sure if the Diva Cup is similar? I've found the best technique is to do a bit of pushing (kegals), and then when it gets within fingertip reach, I pinch the cup to break the suction, fold it a little (ie pressing against the middle of the cup with my index finger and then gripping/folding with my thumb and middle finger) and extract. I think mine came with a little diagram illustrating that technique (not sure if yours would have, too?). I'll try Googling for the image later (when I'm not sat in the middle of my office) and post it if I can find it.

Hopefully you''ll have some luck with the company, especially if you make mention of being a blogger :)

Thanks guys.  Believe me, I bore down hard.  That was the only way I could get the thing out.  The "stem" was useful to some degree, but you can't really use it to remove the cup.  I feel like I was doing things the right way, but that maybe things may be high and tight up in there...

When I finally got the thing out, I was sore from my efforts for a while, but I am willing to try again.  I thought it might be a matter of practice, but after the 3rd attempt I decided to put it on the shelf until next time.  I think I'll go e-mail the company right now, since it's on my mind...

[abitha]

Hey Mrs MM,

I had a lot of trouble when I first started trying to use MoonCup - getting it in was painful and damned near impossible, and getting it out was even worse! Perseverance eventually won out, and now I love it and use it every time. It definitely took an awful lot of practice though.

It might be worth experimenting with different ways of folding it - this site has some pictures for guidance: http://menstrual-cups.livejournal.com/453392.html (I use the 'origami' fold). It sounds like getting it in wasn't the problem for you, but I suspect the insertion method has an effect on the cup's eventual position as well, so it might help to try a couple of different ways. As for the 'suction' problem, mine does that too sometimes, and I have been worried occasionally that I'd never get it out. If that happens, don't even bother pulling on the stem, cos that just creates more suction and doesn't work at all. You need to break the seal. I find the easiest way to do that is to stick a finger up behind the cup as far as it'll go, and push the cup forwards and slightly downwards against my pubic bone, whilst simultaneously bearing down. Sometimes this takes several attempts before the seal breaks. Others may find different ways to do it (e.g. reaching up with 2 fingers and squeezing it?), but I find this way quite good because it means I can kind of fold the back of the cup down again as it comes out, making it smaller and less uncomfortable to remove. Eventually it will tend to break its own suction anyway (i.e. when it's full of blood and starts leaking) - obviously you don't particularly want to wait for it to do this, but it's reassuring to know that it can't get permanently stuck!

Hope this is helpful (and not TMI). If cups really don't work for you, did you know there are also washable and reusable sanitary towels? I actually own some, although I've never used them because I bought them just around the time that I finally got the hang of MoonCup. Have heard others say they are pretty good though.

[RoseRed]

Oh, do try it again. It took me around 3 months to get the hang of mine, but now that I have done, I find tampons incredibly uncomfortable in comparison. The first time I put mine, I panicked and thought I would have to go to a doctor to get it fished out, and I tugged and pulled and it hurt! But there is a knack to it, and once you have it, it's really easy.

I think that I do a sort of bear down and twist to get it out.

Also, my very much TMI top tip for newbies is that if you are finding insertion tricky and it leaks because you've done it wrong, if you have an orgasm shortly after putting it in, your muscles seem to automatically get the cup in the right position.

[Mrs MM]

Thank you!  After reading up more on this and hearing what you guys have said, I will definitely try it for a while longer and see.  It seems many have issues in the beginning.  Maybe I'll be an old pro in a few months.  :)  I guess my expectations were that it was easy right from the beginning...

Oh, and I like your orgasm tip, RoseRed!!  :)

[ferfischer]

OR.  You could just keep getting pregnant.  Or, an IUD.  I think I've had 3 periods in 6 years.  I'm totally getting another IUD after this baby - it eliminates periods entirely for me.  But, I'm not sure if this is the same, but I did like the "Instead" cup, so i think a divacup would be fine for me as well.  Interesting topic - I always used OB tampons which don't have a ton of waste, but I hope to never deal with it again.

[Osprey]

I wanted to add that disposables are also very hygienic, since the cup can be boiled/autoclaved (if you happen to have an autoclave lying around in your kitchen...) and the liners can be bleached.

It took me about two cycles to get used to my Divacup (I ended up cutting the end bit and using the origami fold). But I am also on the Mirena now and only get occasional spotting, which I use washable pantyliners for. It's fantastic how much money and waste we can save over the years!

[HeidiO]

I tried the keeper, but I found it uncomfortable, prone to leaking, etc.  What I went to was the "Instead" cup. ( I am grateful that I had an ablation and I no longer have a period.) It is supposed to be single use, but I figured if you could reuse the keeper, why not the Instead?  I would use 1 a month, then throw away at the end of the period.  I also liked that I could bear down (when on the toilet) and it would tip the cup, and the liquid would empty.  That way, I didn't have to remove and empty it when in public restrooms.  I also always used a pad w/ it.  My favorite re-usable "pad" was a black wool sock folded to the right size.  No bleaching necessary.

[lastwaysleft]

Agreed! I've been using the Diva Cup for 3 years now.  I take care of it well and boil it and scrub it (with a clean rag and Dr. Bronner's soap) regularly, and it's still in tip-top shape.

If you have had trouble with it being uncomfortable, try cutting the stem shorter.  I used to be able to feel my stem when I would sit down, but I cut it shorter and it's much better, it won't get lost as you just have to bear down to get it out.

Another thing I've used are sea sponges, they're little sponges from the sea-floor that are reusable for about 3 months.  These are nice because they aren't nearly as prone to leakage as the cups are.  Also if you're having trouble getting your cup out, the sea sponges are nice because you can sew a string into them to help with removal.  They have to be rinsed out as often as tampons, though, which is super hard for me since I'm used to the 12-hour cup.

I love my diva cup and rarely use the sea sponges (I got them because I wasn't allowed to use my diva cup for 3 months after I got my IUD, which is another amazing money-saving device, no contraception costs for 10 years and no hormones with the copper one!).  There is occasionally spotting, but I just have some black underwear that are designated for that time of month, and find that's all I really need.  The thing I love best about the diva cup is that I empty it in the morning, and empty it before bed, and don't ever have to worry about changing it in public or during the day.

[Melissa]

All of you ladies have me interested.  I have never used one before so I have some questions.  How long do you find that you could keep it in for?  The first day of my period is always VERY heavy so I am not sure how often I would have to empty it.  Did you have to worry about any leakage?  I would probably use pantiliners while trying it out.  I saw the Diva cup at our natural health food store and thought about buying it but I don't think I could use one when out and about (I am finishing school and don't think the large communal bathroom is a great place to clean it!)

[AJ]

How long do you find that you could keep it in for?  The first day of my period is always VERY heavy so I am not sure how often I would have to empty it.

I leave it in for 10-12 hours at a time, even through heavy flow. I was really surprised at how little fluid is actually generated when it is collected in a cup like that rather than being absorbed. You can always do it more often the first few months until you get a feel for your own cycle.

Did you have to worry about any leakage?

I did worry, and I wore pantiliners at first. But the only leak I had was when I inserted it wrong (specifically, it was to the side of my cervix rather than covering it. Oops...) I don't know if it would leak if it were totally full, I've never had it get totally full before.

(I am finishing school and don't think the large communal bathroom is a great place to clean it!)

Yes, that could be awkward :/ If I am not at home and I need to empty it, I just dump the contents into the toilet and put it back in, then wash it as soon as I have access to a private restroom or shower. I wouldn't be comfortable cleaning it around other people.

[Putski]

Hey Mrs. MM, I too had a terrible experience trying to remove my diva cup!  It happened 6 months or so ago, and I've been terrified to try it again.   I was about to leave to go to work a 12 hour shift, and I couldn't get it out. Here I was, panicky, crying, trying to get the stupid thing out..no luck.  I finally got it out that night after I got home, but man, what a day.  I've wanted to give it another try, but it's going to have to be a designated day when I know I'll be close to home...   

[chrissyo]

All of you ladies have me interested.  I have never used one before so I have some questions.  How long do you find that you could keep it in for?  The first day of my period is always VERY heavy so I am not sure how often I would have to empty it.  Did you have to worry about any leakage?  I would probably use pantiliners while trying it out.  I saw the Diva cup at our natural health food store and thought about buying it but I don't think I could use one when out and about (I am finishing school and don't think the large communal bathroom is a great place to clean it!)

Similar to AJ, I find I can easily leave it in for 10-12 hrs during my heaviest days, and will only empty it daily on my lighter days, and have experienced little/no leakage (definitely less than I would experience with even the most absorbant tampons on my heavy days). I typically just empty it in the morning after waking up, and then again when I'm home in the evening if necessary. If I know it's one of my heavier days, I'll empty it again if I happen to be in a public bathroom that is self contained (ie a single room with the toilet and sink) or look for a disabled stall that has a sink in it.

The (lack of) changing frequency is actually one of my favourite parts about using the Moon Cup, as it doesn't create any awkward or anxious moments in the middle of the day at work running off to the bathroom with tampons. I also don't have to worry about forgetting to bring extras if I decide to go out for a long walk, or if DH and I decide to go out for dinner/drinks after work, etc. 

[MEJG]

Ok Ladies,
    You've inspired me to try again.  Just one question left- what do you do overnight?  Can you use one of the cups overnight? and if not do you go to washable pads?  Any recommendations for those?

[chrissyo]

Ok Ladies,
    You've inspired me to try again.  Just one question left- what do you do overnight?  Can you use one of the cups overnight? and if not do you go to washable pads?  Any recommendations for those?

I haven't had any issues wearing my cup overnight. If you're particularly worried about overnight leakage, I think trying a pad (disposable or otherwise) for a couple of nights would be a good idea. I don't have any recommendations for washable pads, I'm afraid; my flow has always been pretty heavy, so I've never felt comfortable with any 'external' solutions :)

[Melissa]

You ladies have convinced me.  Tomorrow is a designated errand day so I will be heading out and buying one too, and just in time.  All the signs are there that it will start tomorrow.  I will posthow the first time using it goes.

[AJ]

The (lack of) changing frequency is actually one of my favourite parts about using the Moon Cup, as it doesn't create any awkward or anxious moments in the middle of the day at work running off to the bathroom with tampons. I also don't have to worry about forgetting to bring extras if I decide to go out for a long walk, or if DH and I decide to go out for dinner/drinks after work, etc. 

This is one of my favorite parts as well. I'm really self-conscious about taking my purse with me to the restroom at work (when I don't other times), or trying to sneak a tampon in my pocket or shirt sleeve :) I'm not sure how other women handle that sort of thing, but I never perfected it. It is so relieving to not have to even bother with it during the work day.

For reusable pads, I can say that they are much softer and more comfortable than disposable, but I've never used them on heavy days, so I can't speak to their absorbancy. Also, I'm not sure how the logistics would work if you had to change it mid-day away from home. I've only worn them on light-flow days, when I can keep one on all day, or when I'm not exactly sure when my period will start and I just want some insurance.

[Mrs MM]

Hey Mrs. MM, I too had a terrible experience trying to remove my diva cup!  It happened 6 months or so ago, and I've been terrified to try it again.   I was about to leave to go to work a 12 hour shift, and I couldn't get it out. Here I was, panicky, crying, trying to get the stupid thing out..no luck.  I finally got it out that night after I got home, but man, what a day.  I've wanted to give it another try, but it's going to have to be a designated day when I know I'll be close to home...

Glad I wasn't the only one!  I feel your pain.  I will try again though.  It seems many had problems at the beginning...

[bogart]

Minimalist mom wrote about this recently and, as here, it got mixed reviews in the comments.  With some minor edits, mine read -- I use one but give it mixed reviews; I’ve had problems with leakage and have occasionally found the thing slips up high enough that it’s been difficult to get it out (basically the stem wedges behind my pubic bone). Plus there is, indeed, the nuisance of changing it out in a public (multi-stall) restroom, and washing it. I do find dumping the contents and wiping it out with toilet paper works OK, though wouldn’t want to use it repeatedly without being able to wash with soap and water. Over several days I find it can get a tad yeasty, and I suspect not being able to wash it thoroughly might make that worse.

Ages ago when I was relying on a diaphragm for birth control I used it for this purpose too and honestly found it much easier than I’d find the cup. I’d recommend anyone with decent health insurance coverage start with the diaphragm, which should be a covered cost, and see how that works, before buying a Diva. I may myself ask to be fitted next time I have a doctor’s appointment.

The whole post + comments appear here:  http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2012/03/22/game-changer/#comments

[Mactrader]

Here's me entering this thread.


(j/k ladies, couldn't resist!)

[Able was I ERE]

(Another non-squeamish male entering the thread.)

My wife has tried to Diva Cup, but likes the miacup (http://www.miacup.co.za) better due to it being softer and easier to insert/remove.  They have a 6-month, no-questions-asked return/exchange guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

Anyway, I'm assuming all ladies are sized differently and maybe the size 2 (older than 30, had child) is not right for me?  I'm going to contact the company and see if they'll send me a size 1 to try (since I obviously can't return it).

My wife says to pay attention to your body for sizing, not necessarily to the charts---some women will feel more comfortable with a smaller/larger size than specified on the company's sizing chart.

[clarkai]

I started with the diva cup, but felt that it was too long and big for me, so I got a yuuki cup. That thing is awesome.

If you think your cup is too big, too wide, too small or whatever, there are many, many, many brands out there. This <a href="http://menstrualcups.wordpress.com">website</a>  reviews cups, and gives oodles and oodles of information in many metrics. I'd highly recommend giving it a look if you aren't happy with your first cup.

[fidgiegirl]

(Another non-squeamish male entering the thread.)

My wife has tried to Diva Cup, but likes the miacup (http://www.miacup.co.za) better due to it being softer and easier to insert/remove.  They have a 6-month, no-questions-asked return/exchange guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

Anyway, I'm assuming all ladies are sized differently and maybe the size 2 (older than 30, had child) is not right for me?  I'm going to contact the company and see if they'll send me a size 1 to try (since I obviously can't return it).

My wife says to pay attention to your body for sizing, not necessarily to the charts---some women will feel more comfortable with a smaller/larger size than specified on the company's sizing chart.

Thanks for the tip, man :)

I had one, but also disliked, and did not persevere.  Finally I threw it out after a few years of taking up space in my drawer.  But maybe I would try again with this company if I knew my money wouldn't be wasted if it went poorly yet again.

[poko]

Or, an IUD.  I think I've had 3 periods in 6 years.

Yeah, seconded. I have the Mirena, and it's awesome. My periods have pretty much disappeared. Sometimes just a small amount of spotting -- and I can just use a pantyliner in those instances. Though, I hear the copper ones cause extra bleeding, so I'd beware of those.

Plus, no babies! :D

[daymare]

I'm on the fence about the diva cup -- grew up wishing I could use tampons (was stuck with pads b/c I couldn't stick the tampons in) and finally was able to in college.  Then I read about the diva cup and used that for a few times before changing my BC (and now I don't get a period - thanks Junel Fe).  I was actually hoping to get a non-hormonal IUD but won't be able to due to ordering issues, so now I'm planning on switching to a lower hormone BC.

So this post is very timely -- pulled out my old cup from the closet and I plan on trying it out again.  My periods on BC are not very heavy and pretty short, and I use OB tampons -- so the cost isn't that bad.  Obviously in the long run, the diva cup is the better value.  What I really love about the cup (as others have said) is that you can keep it in for the entire day and not worry.  I'm too paranoid to do that with a tampon, and not having to worry about getting to the bathroom in the middle of the day is great.  I work at a software company, and there are ... not many women.  And on client visits, my period is not something I want to think about.  I've had issues (similar to what others have posted) with getting it out the couple of times I used it, but sounds like things get easier with time.  Can't believe my first post on this forum was about things I put in my vagina. =P

[windawake]

I am such a huge fan of the DivaCup I can't even communicate it properly.  My enthusiasm is four-fold: It's way more convenient and easier to use, it's healthier for your body (no chemicals from tampon/pad bleaching processes), healthier for the environment (little to no waste), and it's way more cost efficient.  Plus it makes you a less squeamish person.

I recently started a blog and one of my first posts was about the DivaCup: http://windawake.wordpress.com/2012/03/21/get-excited-about-your-period-use-a-menstrual-cup/

Probably one of my favorite discoveries of all time.

[nolajo]

I'm actually using a DivaCup for the first time right now because of the advice in this thread and it's been pretty positive. Unfortunately, nothing on its own can cope with the first couple of nights of my period, so pads will probably never be fully out of the picture, but I should be able to reduce my use of them by a lot. It's also still a little awkward to put in and take out, but I'm sure that will get better.

If anyone is a little squeamish or uncertain about getting that up close and personal with your lady bits and is hesitant about plunking down $35 for something kind of foreign, I'd suggest trying out SoftCups. Similar principal, though the actual technique involved is a little different and somewhat reusable. I've been starting to see them in most drug stores and there's less investment, which you may appreciate if you're not convinced on the matter. (Also, if it matters to you, you can have sex while wearing one without your bed looking like a crime scene haha.)

Anyways, I'm now convinced on the DivaCup as my main menstrual go-to. Anything to make periods suck less!

[travelbug]

Yes, I am on board with this too. Diva cups are awesome. The first two cycles are trickier with having your body in your face but I would sooo not go back now. Yuck!
C

[skandrae]

I started using the Diva Cup back in 2005, when I was living in Japan and all my friends in Canada were tired of mailing me tampons ^_^ The Cup, combined with home-made washable cloth pads, have made my life so much easier, I couldn't imagine going back to disposables.

[Monkey stache]

Tampons make me squirmish so I've never tried the diva cup but I do use Luna pads and I love them!

[Mirwen]

I bought the Diva Cup a few months ago, but it didn't fit well for me.  It worked and I had no issues inserting or extracting it.  However after the protracted labor (4 days) with my son I have a significant prolapse. So, even properly inserted the tip of the cup is visible and I can feel it.  I was inspired by the info and chart here to try a shorter version.  I just ordered the Meluna soft basic from Germany and I can't wait to try it.  I never thought I would look forward to my period.

[redeyedtreefr0g]

Wow, I get a warning when I try to reply here- this topic has not been posted in for at least 120 days... please consider starting a new topic.

NO!

This topic is perfectly fine and should not be allowed to die, so say I.

Did anyone else have this issue?  The whole idea behind this thing is brilliant, so I'm happy to give it another go.  If someone sent me samples of all different kinds, I bet I could find one that worked, but otherwise, the search could be expensive...

I use the Keeper Mooncup http://www.keeper.com/
They have a 3 month no-questions-asked return policy (they destroy them, of course). Their only condition is that you not trim off more than half of the stem on your cup. I was fanatical about giving myself a true chance to get used to the cup- I really really wanted it to work for me because I simply LOVED the idea of it.
So, I trimmed off only 1/4 inch at a time, keeping the pieces to be sure I didn't go over half. The stem poked and rubbed at me, and at first was so long that sitting down would sometimes cause the cup to be shifted- how paranoid I was!! After the second month I could tell that the stem was the only thing keeping me from really being able to use the cup, so I chopped it off. There is now only 1/4 inch left on the bottom, and that is simply to help me feel when I don't have it inserted properly.

I'm sure other companies must have a trial-period return policy or they aren't worth your time. Testing shouldn't be an expensive endeavor at all!

All of you ladies have me interested.  I have never used one before so I have some questions.  How long do you find that you could keep it in for?  The first day of my period is always VERY heavy so I am not sure how often I would have to empty it.  Did you have to worry about any leakage?  I would probably use pantiliners while trying it out.  I saw the Diva cup at our natural health food store and thought about buying it but I don't think I could use one when out and about (I am finishing school and don't think the large communal bathroom is a great place to clean it!)

I insert my cup early to prevent any surprises- it hurts nothing by being in there before you're actually bleeding, which is one of the best things about it. I will insert it in the morning and check it midday. My first few days are the heaviest flow days for me, so I empty the cup in the morning when I wake up, then again at midday and lastly before bed. I have no problems with wearing the cup overnight, but more than 8-10 hours and I'm asking for a leak. After the first few days I only empty it when I wake up and before bed.

Leaking will occur if:
your cup has caught as much blood as it can hold and overflows
you've inserted it improperly
sometimes a bowel movement or other muscle changes in that area can dislodge it (I haven't had this happen, personally, though tampons would do this to me all the time)

Pantyliners worked great for me and I would recommend them. The first few months are trial-and-error as you learn the trick of inserting the cup properly, knowing when it is inside you correctly, and how long you can go before you need to empty it.

I was also nervous about having to empty the cup in a public restroom where there was no handicap stall available with a sink. It's been a year and finally I've had this happen at my new job. I always make sure I have a good grip on the cup (I have a fear of dropping it into the toilet). You can wet a paper towel and take it with you into the stall- this helps with cleaning but is completely not necessary. I dump the blood from the middle of the cup and wipe the outside to clean it. I'll lay it on top of a layer of toilet paper while I take care of wiping my body, then I'll simply refold the cup and insert it, throw away the extra paper, and I'm done!  I'll say using my own sink is much better and faster, but this was NOT the nightmare I had been dreading.

Ok Ladies,
    You've inspired me to try again.  Just one question left- what do you do overnight?  Can you use one of the cups overnight? and if not do you go to washable pads?  Any recommendations for those?

Of course I use mine overnight! That is the best part of a menstrual cup- you don't have to change it nearly as often as a tampon, and a cup doesn't care if you have sudden gushes that might overwhelm an exterior pad. The only issue I can see if if you have an extremely heavy flow- I mean heavy!- and can't go very long before needing to empty it. Then I might use a backup pad. I tended to wake up when a tampon got full enough to leak (though I usually didn't recognize that as the cause before my underwear got soiled, /sigh. Cups are SO much better!). I like being able to sleep naked now if I want to without stupid strings hanging out :)

This is one of my favorite parts as well. I'm really self-conscious about taking my purse with me to the restroom at work (when I don't other times), or trying to sneak a tampon in my pocket or shirt sleeve :) I'm not sure how other women handle that sort of thing, but I never perfected it. It is so relieving to not have to even bother with it during the work day.

I never did either!
And then I was always trying to hide the evidence in the trashcan, even when it was wrapped up as neat and discreetly as possible. My husband frankly LOVES the lack of trash. I laughed at him the other day because I threw a booger-tissue into the trashcan after my twin sister had visited- he'd been trash-free of that variety for so long that he actually asked me if I had put it in there, because he wasn't sure and it grossed him out to think of what it might have been.

I'll also share a story- we used to live with my brother-in-law and they got a new puppy. That stupid thing would routinely drag the bathroom garbage all over the house, and every single female including myself was regularly shamed, because try as we might to keep the door closed, to empty the trash regularly, it didn't work. Be glad you were not a male OR female in that situation!


For those that have trouble with removal- there are several tips you can find both from manufacturers and from users reviewing the products. My cup can vary widely in where it sits- sometimes low enough to grab easily, and sometimes pretty high in there. The twisting method of checking to see if the cup if inserted properly is not entirely accurate. I just had to learn it for myself. Sometimes I can spin in, sometimes doing that just dislodges the position I had it in and i have to start over. You get a feel for it.
Whether I have to fish for the cup or not, I always pinch the bottom to release the suction (and ensure I have a good grip). Usually this doesn't break the seal completely if its far up inside, but it will loosen the cup enough for me to pull it down to where I can finally tilt it out. The recommendation of squatting helps, and I also remove a cup easier with one leg up while in the shower.

It really helped me out immeasurably to learn about all the different parts of me down there. Please check out http://www.beautifulcervix.com/.
This is a website about a woman who photographed herself throughout an entire month- you see what I imagine a gynecologist sees. I learned so much from reading this, such as what in the hell that thing in the middle of me WAS- it's my cervix! During menstruation it hardens and lowers closer to the bottom of your vagina, with a tiny opening. Sex during this time of the month would be very uncomfortable for me because there isn't a lot of room in there and my husband's penis has to shove the hardened cervix to one side to even fit. Who would have thought?? During your most fertile days, the cervix is the softest and highest with the largest opening- theoretically so that sperm has more of an area to collect in and can more easily reach the egg.

Anyway, the website was extremely informative to me personally and I thought it was worth sharing.

I hope anything I said helps others.

[N]

I also use a diva cup, however mine just broke! it developed a crack near the bottom. hmph. I started using one about 7 years ago, but had about 3 years of not using it due to pregnancy and breastfeeding. So I guess I only got 4 years use out of mine. But I still think its better than the alternatives and is worth it.

btw, if you are part of a frontier co-op I have seen them there for half price.
https://wholesale.frontiercoop.com/

I change mine usually in the shower in the am (after wearing it overnight) and then perhaps in the late afternoon/evening if its a heavier day.
I am not a fan of trying to empty it when not at home. I find that many times, when removing it, that my menstrual fluid is mucousy and it can be a real mess to take it out. I also spilled it once into my pants in a public restroom. so not fun.

I also use cloth pads, sometimes, but the Diva is much neater and cleaner. easier to take care of, too.

[Tradies wife]

Diva here too.... and cloth pads. :)

[SJ]

My wife first tried the cup many years ago (I believe the Mooncup, but can't recall now) and she ended up not being able to use it due to leakage and difficulties dealing with it when not at home.  Due to extremely painful periods she went from regular oral BC to the new type that allows a period only every 3 months, which has been a Goddess-send for her.  But maybe she can try her cup again now that her periods are much lighter (for the most part).  I'll have to send her the link to this thread.

[N]

I forgot to add that Diva Cup used to have a one year money back guarantee.
I havent checked the refund policy/ procedure in years, it may have changed.

[Zaga]

I use the Lunette small, bought it 4.5 years ago.  It's the most awesome thing!  I also made up several cloth pantiliners for backup.  You really do want to know about your own body before picking a cup, according to their charts I should use a large, but there's just no way!

I also recently bought a LadyCup so I'd have a backup, and I wanted one that was even shorter.  I did have one instance of super suction and I never thought I'd get it out, but I learned that I didn't have enough air in it initially.  By making sure there's plenty of air I haven't had a problem since so I now have my backup.  Although I prefer the Lunette.