In this article /
So, you decided to join the eco friendly period movement – we’re so glad you decided to join us! And we wanted to take a minute to make sure you know the ins and outs of your new cup.
The DivaCup is a reusable menstrual cup that is designed to sit low in the vaginal canal and collect menstrual fluid during your flow days. It is made of 100% medical grade silicone and holds between 4-6 tampons’ worth of flow, depending on the model you choose. It’s safe for up to 12 hours of protection. It is chemical-free, BPA-free and contains no plastics or dyes.
The DivaCup is an eco friendly alternative to disposable pads and tampons. It is a reusable period product that can be used every cycle for up to several years. How’s that for cost-effective and low waste?
Read on to discover everything you’ll need to know about using your DivaCup.
How to Prepare Your Reusable Menstrual Cup for Use
The DivaCup comes in 3 different sizes. Once you decide which model to purchase, bring it home and remove it from the box. You’ll get a DivaCup, a user manual, and the organic cotton carrying pouch to store your cup in.
The DivaCup is an internal device, and as such, needs to be properly cared for and sanitized before insertion. Before using your DivaCup, we recommend boiling it for 5-7 minutes.
Tip: Set a timer. This will prevent the water from boiling down. Also — Insert your cup in a metal whisk before placing it in the pot of boiling water. This will prevent the cup from melting by coming into contact with the side of the pot.
Insertion
Inserting your menstrual cup can take some practice and patience. Always wash your hands before inserting or removing your menstrual cup. Choose a fold; the U fold or the push-down fold. It’ll fold down to tampon size, whichever way you decide to fold it!
Find a comfortable position either sitting on the toilet or standing with one foot up on the side of the bathtub. Hold your folded cup between your forefinger and thumb. Take a deep breath, separate your labia with your free hand, and gently insert the folded menstrual cup. The open, but folded, end of the DivaCup should point towards your tailbone. Gently push it in until the stem isn’t sticking out beyond your labia.
Fingers still gripping the base of the cup, (and not the stem,) rotate it 360 degrees to create a seal. At this point, you can feel around the outside of the menstrual cup for a smooth surface to ensure that the cup is unfolded and securely sealed in place. Once inserted, you shouldn’t feel it. Now, you can go about your day as though it were a non-period day.
Tip: The shower is a great place to practice insertion. The warm water relaxes the body, and you also won’t have to worry about mess.
Removing a Reusable Menstrual Cup
When removing your DivaCup, assume the same position. Take a deep breath, relax your body, and with your free hand separate your labia. With your forefinger and thumb inserted into the vaginal opening, feel for the base of the cup. Pinch the base to release the seal, then gently move the cup side to side while pulling down. Dispose of flow in the toilet.
Note: It’s important to always pinch the base of your DivaCup and break the seal before trying to remove it. This is required for a smooth removal process!
Cleansing
Cleanse your cup with DivaWash or a similar mild, unscented, oil-free cleanser. Using a pH-balanced cleanser like DivaWash helps ensure your cup lasts its intended lifetime.
Make sure to pay attention to cleansing the four holes under the rim of your cup, as well as up into the stem. Lather well with cleanser, rinse thoroughly, and then leave to airdry.
Storage
Always store your DivaCup in a breathable cotton bag away from moisture and fragrance, and at room temperature. The medical grade silicone that we use for our reusable menstrual products is non-porous and bacteria resistant when stored properly.
Troubleshooting Your Eco Friendly Care
If you are having trouble, do not hesitate to reach out to our TMI-friendly Consumer Experience Team for individualized troubleshooting!
Welcome to the club! We think you’re really going to like it here.
