Frequently Asked Questions
Product-Specific FAQs (14)
No, when properly inserted and positioned, you shouldn’t feel your cup at all. If you can feel it, it may need to be inserted deeper, rotated for a better seal, or you might need a different size or shape.
Absolutely! Many cloth pads come in longer, more absorbent overnight styles. They often provide better protection than disposables because they don’t have plastic that can create gaps.
For many people, yes! However, this depends on your flow, lifestyle, and comfort level. Some prefer to use period underwear as primary protection on lighter days and as backup with cups or tampons on heavier days.
While not absolutely necessary, rinsing in cold water before washing helps prevent staining and odors. You can store used pairs in a wet bag until wash day if needed.
Most period underwear can absorb the equivalent of 2-4 tampons worth of fluid, depending on the style. Light absorbency styles work for spotting or as backup, while heavy absorbency can handle your heaviest days. Check each product’s specific absorbency rating.
Mooncups should be cleaned with cold running water. The use of soaps or detergents is not recommended. Most Mooncups have a series of small holes just below the rim. These are vital for maintaining the vacuum and stopping leakage, so it is important that these holes are clear.
Cup sizing typically depends on age, whether you’ve given birth vaginally, and your cervix height. Most brands offer two sizes: smaller for those under 30 who haven’t given birth vaginally, and larger for those over 30 or who have given birth. However, cervix height and flow are often more important factors. We recommend taking our sizing quiz or consulting the specific brand’s sizing guide.
Look for pads with wings that snap around your underwear. The snaps should be secure but not too tight. Proper sizing for your underwear and body also helps prevent shifting.
Don’t panic! Cups can’t get lost inside you. Relax, squat, and use your pelvic floor muscles to push down while gently grasping the stem. If you can’t reach it, wait a few hours and try again when you’re more relaxed. The cup will naturally move down.
It can be easier to remove a cup by releasing the vacuum. To do this, gently squeeze the bottom of the cup. You can often hear the vacuum release, and this will make removal easier. Simply pulling the stem releases the vacuum with more of a pop, potentially causing an uncomfortable splash.
Most cups can be worn safely for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. On heavy days, you might need to empty it every 4-6 hours, while on lighter days, 12 hours is usually fine. Never exceed 12 hours to reduce any risk of infection.
We recommend starting with 5-7 pairs to get through a full cycle, assuming you’ll wash and dry them between wears. This gives you enough for rotation while some are in the wash.
Not necessarily. Over time some Mooncups may stain, but provided it’s been cleaned correctly (under cold water), the staining is effectively cosmetic. Stained cups are perfectly safe to use.
Yes! Most cups hold 1-2 ounces of fluid, which is significantly more than tampons or pads. Large-capacity cups can hold up to 3 times more than a super tampon. You may need to empty it more frequently on heavy days, but many users find cups more reliable for heavy flows.
Lifestyle FAQs (11)
Absolutely! Many athletes prefer sustainable products because they provide reliable, long-lasting protection. Cups are particularly popular for swimming and high-intensity activities since they don’t absorb water or shift during movement. Best Advice: use a softer cup for exercise and sports
Yes! They’re actually ideal for travel. Cups and period underwear take up minimal luggage space, you don’t need to find shops selling your preferred products, and you avoid disposal issues in different countries. Always pack backups and bring cleaning supplies.
Yes! In fact, many people find tracking easier with reusable products since you’re not constantly purchasing supplies. Period underwear can be particularly helpful for unpredictable spotting or irregular timing.
Sustainable products are perfect for outdoor adventures! Cups can be emptied and reinserted without running water (clean with bottled water later). Period underwear provides long-lasting protection. Pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and sealable bags for used items.
Most sustainable products are very discreet. Cups are invisible when inserted, period underwear looks like regular underwear, and cloth pads can be stored in pretty pouches. Many people find they think about their periods less with reliable, long-lasting protection.
Plan ahead by keeping a small kit in your desk or bag with wet wipes, a small water bottle for rinsing cups if needed, and a discreet pouch for carrying products. Period underwear can be especially convenient for long work days.
Share the benefits that matter to them – cost savings, environmental impact, convenience, or health aspects. Many partners are supportive when they understand the long-term benefits. Some families make it a sustainability goal together.
Cups and discs are excellent for swimming as they don’t absorb water like tampons do. Period underwear isn’t suitable for swimming, but reusable pads can work for poolside lounging (just like regular swimwear).
We would recommend removing the Mooncup if emptying your bowels. You don’t have to, but we recommend it because it can be uncomfortable. There also exists the possibility that the pressure on the pelvic area during defecation can force the cup out, resulting in a very messy retrieval process.
For cups, you can empty and reinsert without rinsing if necessary – just wipe with tissue or period wipes. Many public conveniences now have accessible sinks within stalls. Period underwear eliminates this concern entirely for most flows.
Cups can provide up to 12 hours of protection, making them ideal for long shifts. Period underwear offers similar peace of mind. Having backup products and a small emergency kit can handle unexpected situations.
Health and Safety FAQs (8)
Yes, when used properly and kept clean. Medical-grade silicone cups, organic cotton pads, and period underwear made from safe materials are all considered safe alternatives to conventional products. Always choose products from reputable manufacturers.
Most people can use sustainable products, but certain conditions may require special consideration. If you have severe prolapse, active infections, or have been advised to avoid internal products, consult your healthcare provider about which options are safe for you.
Many people with IUDs successfully use cups, but consult your healthcare provider first. Be extra careful during removal to avoid pulling on IUD strings. Some prefer shorter cups or discs, and you may need to break the suction seal more carefully.
When used with proper hygiene, cups don’t increase infection risk. In fact, some studies suggest they may reduce the risk of certain infections compared to tampons. Always wash your hands before handling, sterilize between cycles, and don’t wear for more than 12 hours.
Yes, age alone doesn’t determine safety. The decision should be based on comfort level, understanding of proper use, and ability to maintain good hygiene. Some teens find cups easier than tampons, while others prefer external options initially.
Watch for unusual itching, burning, rashes, or irritation that doesn’t resolve quickly after removing the product. Medical-grade silicone allergies are extremely rare. If you have known latex allergies, ensure your products are latex-free.
TSS risk with menstrual cups appears to be very low – much lower than with tampons. There have been very few documented cases. Period underwear and reusable pads carry no TSS risk as they’re external products. Always follow usage guidelines and watch for TSS symptoms.
Remove the product immediately and consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, unusual discharge, fever, rash, or any concerning symptoms. While serious complications are rare, it’s always better to check with a professional.