What can you tell me about the menstrual cup?
Answer From Tatnai Burnett, M.D.
Menstrual cup
Menstrual cup
Menstrual cup
A menstrual cup is a bell-shaped device worn inside the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid. Some menstrual cups are reusable; others are not.
A menstrual cup is a flexible device worn inside the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid. Menstrual cups are an over-the-counter alternative to pads and tampons.
Menstrual cups are typically made of silicone or rubber. There are two types: vaginal and cervical. The vaginal cup is placed in the vagina, and the cervical cup is placed around the cervix, high in the vagina. If you're using a reusable menstrual cup, you empty the cup when it's full, wash it and then place it back in your vagina. Devices can last up to 10 years. If you're using a disposable menstrual cup, you discard it after using it.
The menstrual cup should be emptied every four to 12 hours, depending on your menstrual flow and the type of cup being used. Research suggests that leakage from a menstrual cup is similar to or less than that from using pads and tampons.
If you have questions about using a menstrual cup, talk to your health care provider.
With
Tatnai Burnett, M.D.
Feb. 28, 2020
- Van Eijk AM, et al. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, availability: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Public Health. 2019; doi:10.1016/S2468-2667(19)30111-2.
- Frequently asked questions: Especially for teens FAQ041: Your changing body: Puberty in girls (especially for teens). American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Your-Changing-Body-Puberty-in-Girls-Especially-for-Teens. Accessed Oct. 25, 2019.