Some discoloration is normal and depends on the uniqueness of each person’s flow. Rest assured; it does not affect the cup’s safety or performance.
To help reduce staining, rinse your cup with cold water first to remove menstrual flow before washing it with warm water and a mild, oil-free, fragrance-free cleanser such as DIVA™ Wash. Regular cleaning keeps your cup fresh and in good condition over time.
As the DIVA™ Cup is a personal care product, we recommend that you inspect your cup regularly for signs of deterioration such as a sticky or powdery film, severe discolouration, odor, etc. If you detect any deterioration, or if you experience irritation, we recommend you replace your DIVA™ Cup with a new one.
The lifespan of your menstrual cup may vary, depending on vaginal pH, how often and how well your cup is cleansed, what cleansing agents are used, etc. Our general guideline is that a DIVA™ Cup can last up to 5 years, but it is ultimately up to the consumer to decide when to replace their cup.
Yes. The DIVA™ Cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone with no added chemicals (no BPA), latex, dyes, or plastics. Also, if properly cleansed and cared for, and there are no signs of deterioration, your DIVA™ Cup is safe to use for up to several years.
It can take some time to get the hang of insertion and removal. First, don’t panic—the cup cannot get "lost" inside you. If you’re having trouble removing it, our team is here to help. You can email support@divacup.com or text 1-866-444-3482 for guidance.
If your cup has been inserted for less than 12 hours, take a deep breath — you have time. If it’s been more than 12 hours, seek medical assistance for safe removal. Never use tools like pliers or tweezers to remove your cup.
To make removal easier, relax your pelvic floor muscles. Tension can cause the pelvic floor to contract, pulling the cup higher and making it harder to reach. Try a few rounds of box breathing (inhale 4 seconds, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4) to release tension. Once relaxed, find a comfortable position — standing, squatting, or sitting on the toilet.
Gently insert your thumb and index finger until you feel the stem. Pinch the base to release the seal before easing the cup out and never pull it by the stem alone.
We recommend at the beginning of each cycle; the DIVA™ Cup may be submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for 5-10 minutes. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry.
Please know that boiling is not “mandatory”, it’s just a recommendation. Many consumers choose to just wash their cup regularly with mild, fragrance-free, oil-free soap (like DIVA™ Wash) and water, which is also sufficient to keep the silicone safe and intact.
Yes, both the DIVA™ Cup and Disc can be worn safely for up to 12 hours, making them ideal for overnight use. They do not carry the same TSS risk as tampons.
If it’s your first time using a cup or disc, we recommend trying it during the day first. This helps ensure correct placement and comfort. If inserted incorrectly, the cup or disc can move higher during sleep, which may make removal more difficult in the morning.
Absolutely. Both the DIVA™ Cup and DIVA™ Disc are designed for active lifestyles — including swimming, yoga, and sports. They stay securely in place and provide reliable leak protection through movement.
Before getting active, empty your cup or disc and make sure it’s inserted correctly. This helps maintain a secure fit and prevents leaks during physical activity.
Yes. DIVA Cup Model 0 is a great option specifically for teens and beginners. The DIVA discs can also be used by teens, though they may require more practice.
Keep in mind that internally worn products are not recommended if the hymen needs to remain intact. For personalized support, our customer service team is always happy to help you choose the best fit.
The main difference between the DIVA™ Cup and the DIVA™ Disc lies in their positioning, design, and how they stay in place.
The DIVA™ Cup sits lower in the vaginal canal and creates a gentle seal to stay in place. It is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional menstrual cup experience.
In contrast, the DIVA™ Disc sits higher in the vaginal canal and is tucked behind the pubic bone. It offers the added benefit of being wearable during penetrative sex, making it a more flexible option for some users. The DIVA™ Disc may also be a great option for users with a low cervix or IUD.
Insertion shouldn’t be painful, but it can feel awkward or uncomfortable at first — especially when learning placement and folds. It can take a few cycles to become confident with either product.
If you experience ongoing discomfort, or just need guidance, our support team is always here to help at support@divacup.com or 1-866-444-3482.
The design of the DIVA Cup hasn’t changed in over 20 years, so what you’re experiencing is normal. Silicone can feel slightly different when new, especially if your previous cup was well-worn. It can take a few cycles to adjust to a new cup, especially if you’ve been using your previous one for a few years.
A couple of tips: rinse the cup with warm water before insertion to soften the silicone and make it easier to insert. If you’d like it a bit firmer to help it open more easily, you can rinse it with cold water instead. After a few cycles, it should feel just as comfortable as your last one.
A few factors can cause leaks with a new cup, even if you’ve used DIVA before. Over time, changes such as birth control, childbirth, pelvic floor strength, and cervix position can all affect how your cup seals and sits.
Even after years of using the DIVA Cup, it’s easy to miss a small but important step during insertion that can lead to leaks. Rotation is key to helping the cup open fully. To create the seal, grip the base of the cup (not the stem) and rotate it one full turn (360°) in either direction. Running a finger around the base of the cup can also help you check for any folds or gaps.
If leaking continues, our support team can help you troubleshoot placement and fit — reach out anytime at support@divacup.com
or text 1-866-444-3482.
Meet the Original DivaCup®—learn about how to use a menstrual cup with our cycle-by-cycle guide. Transform your cycle with superior cycle care.
Learn the difference between the DIVA™ Cup and DIVA™ Disc, and find the reusable period product that fits your body and flow best.
Find Your Perfect DIVA™ Menstrual Cup. Compare sizes and discover the sustainable, reusable period cup made for every body and flow.
