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The cervix sits at the base of the uterus and at the top of the vaginal canal. It is the connective opening of the uterus into the vagina. Depending on the height of your cervix, menstrual cups might not be a great fit for you – although there are some adjustments you can make, like trimming the stem. Menstrual discs are also a great option!
Cervix Height
The average cervix height is between 45-55mm or 1.8”-2.25”. Cervix height reflects the distance from the vaginal opening to the tip of the cervix, as it protrudes into the vaginal cavity. The tip of the vaginal portion of the cervix hangs into the vaginal cavity – it is the sphincter of the uterus.
Cervix height is not to be confused with cervix length. The cervix is a long cylindrical cavity portion of the lower part of the uterus. It is roughly 2-3 cm long and it descends into the vaginal cavity. The vaginal portion of the cervix lifts and lowers depending on which phase of the menstrual cycle you are in. The cervix length is the measurement of the long cylindrical cavity at the lower part of the uterus.
How to Measure Your Cervix Height
Cervix height measuring is done by inserting your index finger into your vagina and feeling for the tip of your cervix – it feels like the tip of a nose.
Step 1: Touch your finger to this round soft point and make note of how far your finger is inserted.
Step 2: Compare the amount of your index finger that could be inserted with a measuring tape. This is how many centimeters/inches up your cervix is.
The best time to measure cervix height is during your period when cervix height will be at its lowest.
Step 3: To get an exact measurement, measure cervix height on the first and last day of your period. Note the shortest length. This measurement, in either millimeters or inches, is the height of your cervix.
You might also determine that you have a lower cervix height through trial and error with a menstrual cup. Some symptoms of low cervix height include feeling as though you hit a “wall” when trying to insert your cup, feeling that it is too long or big to fit in, or that your cup protrudes beyond the vaginal opening leading to irritation.
If you experience any of these symptoms, reach out to our Consumer Experience Team for support. If you haven’t tried a cup or a disc before, measure cervix height before selecting the period product for you.
The Cervix and Menstrual Cups
A high cervix range is 55mm (2.25”) and more. Having a high or average height cervix (45-55mm/1.8”-2.25”) works well with a menstrual cup that has a longer catch basin.
If you’re inserting a DivaCup, wash your hands and take a comfortable position sitting on the toilet. After folding your cup, insert it gently into your vagina until the stem is no longer sticking out beyond the vaginal opening. Once inside, rotate and unfold, allowing it to be held in place by the vaginal walls. Menstrual blood will collect here, low in the vaginal canal. If it inserts and sits comfortably, but the stem sticks out beyond the labia, you can trim the stem for comfort.
The DivaCup sits below the cervix, in the vaginal canal and is held in place by the vaginal walls. If you have an average or higher cervix, there should be room for it to sit comfortably in the vaginal canal without extending beyond the vaginal opening. It comes in three different sizes; Model 0, Model 1, and Model 2 to match the width of your vaginal canal and flow volume.
Using a menstrual cup with a low cervix might feel like your cup is sitting lower and sticking out beyond the labia. This might cause irritation in and around the vaginal opening. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you might try a menstrual disc instead.
How To Insert a Menstrual Disc
If you have a lower cervix height (44mm or 1.4” or less), a menstrual disc is a great option. It has a shallow catch basin and sits higher up, beyond the vaginal canal, around the cervix in the vaginal fornix.
You can also try inserting the Diva Disc while in the shower to help relax your body. Standing up with a leg propped up on the side of the bathtub is also an option.
After folding the Diva Disc, insert it lengthwise, pushing the disc through the vaginal opening and vaginal canal, and positioning it in the vaginal fornix. Insert with the front edge of your disc with the anti-slip pull-tab pointing away from your body, so that it’s easy to reach during removal. Make sure that the disc is pushed back as far as it can comfortably go. To avoid leaks, the disc must sit around the cervix, back far enough that it is fully covering the cervix.
You’ll know your disc is in place when the front rim of the disc has been pushed up and tucked securely behind the pubic bone. Once in position, you shouldn’t feel it. The Diva Disc can be worn for up to 12 hours of continuous protection – just like the Diva Cup.
How Do I Choose Between a DivaCup and Diva Disc?
Our anatomy is unique to us, and depending on cervix height, you may need to try different options. Measure cervix height, take note of flow volume (light, medium, or heavy) and assess your options. You will find your fit in no time!
We’ve been so excited to release the Diva Disc, because it means more comfortable, reusable period care options to best suit your needs!
