Thinking about making the switch to a menstrual cup? You're in the right place. We know the world of reusable menstrual cups can seem overwhelming at first, but we promise that finding the right one is a total game-changer for your comfort, your wallet, and the planet.
This guide is here to walk you through every step, giving all women and menstruators the confidence to choose the perfect cup for their body. By understanding a few key factors, you can unlock a simpler period experience. Let's find your perfect match and explore how menstrual cups can lead to safe, comfortable periods.
First Things First: What to Look For in a Menstrual Cup
When you're shopping for period cups, a few key criteria determine how well one will work for you. Getting these right is the secret to a cup that feels like it was made just for your body.
Material: The Foundation of Safety
The single most important factor is the material. The safest and most effective menstrual cups are made from 100% medical-grade silicone [1]. This material is the gold standard because it is biocompatible, flexible, and durable. It's also naturally free of the things you don't want in your body, like BPA, latex, fragrances, or dyes.
While you may see cups made from TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), medical-grade silicone is widely trusted for its purity and track record. Be wary of extremely cheap cups made from unknown plastics, as they may not have undergone the same rigorous safety testing. At LOLA, we put your health first, which is why our Reusable Silicone Menstrual Cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone and is gynecologist-approved.
Size and Capacity: Your Flow and Your Body
Sizing is about more than just your flow. A comfortable, leak-free fit depends on a few things working together.
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Flow and Capacity: This is a great starting point. If you have a lighter flow, a smaller cup is likely all you need. For a heavy flow, a higher-capacity cup (often 30mL or more) allows more time between changes [2].
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Cervix Height: Your cervix can sit high or low in your vaginal canal. A cup that is too long for a low cervix can be uncomfortable.
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To check your cervix height, insert a clean finger into your vagina until you touch your cervix (it feels firm, like the tip of your nose). If you can only insert one knuckle, you likely have a low cervix; two is average, and three or more is high.
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Age and Childbirth: Some brands use age and whether you have given birth vaginally as general sizing guides, as these factors can affect pelvic floor muscle tone.
Firmness: The Balance of Comfort and Seal
The firmness of a cup affects both how it feels inside your body and how it functions.
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Softer Cups: These are often preferred by people who have bladder sensitivity or experience intense cramps. The tradeoff is that they can sometimes be trickier to pop open and seal properly.
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Firmer Cups: A firmer cup pops open more easily after insertion and creates a secure seal, making it a great choice for active individuals who do sports like swimming or running [3]. The risk is that some users may feel pressure from a firmer cup.
LOLA's cup was designed to strike a perfect balance, offering a comfortable firmness that is easy to insert and provides a reliable seal for all-day wear.
Finding a Cup That Fits Your Budget
Switching to reusable menstrual cups is an investment in your comfort and the planet. While price is a factor, safety and quality should always come first.
The Price Spectrum Explained
You will find that period cups generally range from about $20 to $40 [4]. While a low price might be tempting, this is an area where you should be cautious. Extremely cheap cups from unverified sellers may be made with untested materials that could contain unknown dyes, fillers, or BPA.
Why a Quality Cup Is a Smart Investment
A cup from a reputable brand represents the sweet spot of safety, performance, and long-term value. When you invest in a quality cup, you are paying for peace of mind: a gynecologist-approved design, 100% medical-grade materials, and customer support you can trust.
The savings are incredible. A single cup can last for years, replacing hundreds of dollars worth of disposable tampons and pads. This not only saves you money but also dramatically reduces waste, making it one of the most eco-friendly menstrual cup options available. If you're curious how different brands compare, our transparent review of top menstrual cup brands can help guide you.
Use-Case Recommendations: Which Cup Is for You?
To make your decision even easier, here are some recommendations based on common user needs.
For the First-Time User
If you're new to cups, look for a straightforward design and balanced firmness to ease the learning process. Most importantly, be patient with yourself. It can take a few cycles to get the hang of it, and we have resources to help you learn, from everything you need to know about using a cup to a simple guide on how to insert it.
For a Heavy Flow
If you have a heavy flow, your main focus should be capacity, measured in milliliters (mL). A higher-capacity cup will allow you to go longer without emptying it. Many cups hold two to three times more fluid than a super-plus tampon, offering you greater freedom and peace of mind on your heaviest days.
For an Active Lifestyle
For those who love to run, swim, or do yoga, a slightly firmer cup is ideal. It will pop open reliably and maintain its seal during movement, giving you leak-free confidence no matter what you are doing.
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Think of us as your knowledgeable friend helping you sidestep a few common pitfalls on your journey to finding the perfect menstrual cup.
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Choosing a size based on flow alone. Remember to also consider your cervix height. A cup that fits your body's unique anatomy will always be more comfortable.
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Giving up too soon. It is completely normal for it to take one to three cycles to feel like a pro. Experiment with different folding techniques before deciding a cup isn't for you.
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Forgetting to check the material. Always confirm the cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone and is free from dyes, plastics, and other unwanted chemicals.
Your Questions, Answered (FAQ)
Let's clear up a few more common questions.
How do I know which size to get?
To choose your size, consider your flow, cervix height, and any brand-specific guidelines. LOLA offers two sizes to keep it simple. We generally recommend our Small cup if you have a light to normal flow or are a first-time user, and our Regular cup if you have a heavier flow or have given birth vaginally.
Are reusable menstrual cups safe?
Yes. When made from 100% medical-grade silicone and cleaned properly, reusable menstrual cups are a very safe period care option [1]. For your peace of mind, the LOLA Menstrual Cup is also FDA-registered.
Can I use a menstrual cup with an IUD?
It is generally safe to use a cup with an IUD, but we always recommend checking with your doctor first. When removing your cup, make sure you break the suction seal completely to avoid tugging on the IUD strings. You can find more details in our menstrual cup help center.
How is a cup different from period underwear?
A menstrual cup is worn inside the vaginal canal to collect fluid, while period underwear is worn externally to absorb it. Each has its benefits, and many people use both for total coverage. You can learn more in our detailed comparison of period underwear vs. menstrual cups.
You have taken the first step toward a more empowered, sustainable, and comfortable period. Choosing a menstrual cup is a personal decision, and you now have the information you need to select the best one for your body.
If you are ready to get started, the LOLA Reusable Silicone Menstrual Cup is a safe, reliable, and comfortable choice. We invite you to explore it and our full line of organic period products designed with your body in mind.