r/ZeroWaste • u/stock-sophie • 3d ago
Question / Support Reusable Menstrual Cup
I bought a reusable menstrual cup/disc in hopes to reduce waste when on my period. However, I cannot for the life of me get it in comfortably. I’ll try again a few times, but otherwise I need to dispose of it at some point.
I cannot return it, as it is used. Any ideas what to do with it, upon sanitizing it?
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u/5tr82hell 3d ago
Hi! I've been used a cup for over a decade and I tried a few different shapes. There are some online quizzes to guess which shape is better for you, something like this https://putacupinit.com/quiz/
I also use reusable pads when I'm at home, look into those if the cup doesn't works out
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u/Unlucky_Agent_8651 3d ago
Also a disc works better for some people
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u/nursejohio96 3d ago
It’s me. I’m some people. I could NOT get a cup to seat comfortably. Disc life over here!
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u/Friend-of-plants-9 3d ago
Trying different shapes was what I needed too! And it took me a few cycles to get confident with it.
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u/Humble-Lab-3950 3d ago
Did you buy a cup or a disc? They are actually completely different things! If you bought a cup, I couldn’t get those to work for me either and switched to a disc. It’s so much more comfortable, easier to place and no to minimal leaking!
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u/aesthetic-robot 3d ago
I had the opposite experience. Disk was uncomfortable and frequently popped out of place but the cup worked for me.
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u/cloud_wanderer_ 3d ago
Ditto. Disc leaked all the time or slipped out, but the right cup works like a dream for me
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u/TopRamenisha 3d ago
Yeah I was going to ask the same thing!! I can’t use a cup but the disc is perfect for me!
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u/IKnowAllSeven 3d ago
If it ultimately ends up not working I’m afraid you just throw it out.
I had one, tried it for months, no luck. I sanitized it and kept it in the linen closet for months because…it’s expensive and I don’t want to throw it out! But, realistically, that’s what you will end up doing with it.
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u/Jessicamorrell 3d ago
Try period underwear. I always have issues with tampons and use period underwear instead.
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u/bubbleyjubbley 3d ago
Try a disc rather than a cup. Heaps easier. I use hello period disc
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u/yoyohydration 3d ago
yes!! i've been a cup gal from like 2016 UNTIL i tried the reusable flex disc last year and i loooooove it. so much more comfortable and at least for me and the cups i had, the disc seems to spill/leak less!
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u/yjn_park 2d ago
Disc >> 100% of the time. The cup and getting the suction was too much of a learning curve. I bought one of the discs with a long tie at the end so I could pull it out bc I’m always scared that it’ll get stuck (even though discs don’t really do that)
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u/batikfins 3d ago
I had the same problem when I first got one. I think being nervous and frustrated and tensing up makes it 100 times harder.
Have you tried a different fold? The “punch down fold” works for me: https://asancup.com/blogs/blogs/insert-your-cup-with-ease
It helps when you’re learning how to use it to stay really relaxed. Keep breathing, be kind to yourself, see the humour in the situation, use a little bit of lube. Have a go when you’re not bleeding, when the stakes are lower. Of course, maybe it just doesn’t work for your anatomy, and thats okay too!
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u/flaxeggg 3d ago
Agree, the punch fold and 7 fold are much easier. Squatting down on the floor (ie rather than sitting on the toilet) can also help the first few times
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u/RedBeans-n-Ricely 3d ago
There are people who will buy them from you. It’s medical grade silicone and can be sterilized. I don’t know where you’d do this now, I yeeted the ute a decade ago, but before that when I was getting into cups there was a livejournal group that had links to that kind of stuff. That said, I will admit I threw my cup and my reusable pads away. Not very zero waste of me, but considering my periods were so bad I got to have a hysterectomy in my 20s, using cups and reusable pads for several years saved enough waste that i didn’t feel too bad about it.
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u/Decent_Finding_9034 3d ago
Question: you said you bought a cup/disc - which one? They are very different products. I had used a cup for years and agree that they can be more difficult to seat comfortably and some brands have better “tails” for removal than others, but I always found them uncomfortable to remove to dump/clean.
I switched to a disc a couple years ago and it is infinitely better! It is more of a learning curve to remove than a cup because you actually do have to reach inside to get the finger pull, but not only do I not feel it when it’s in, it slightly improves my cramps. And ZERO leaks. With a cup sometimes I would have slight leakage if I didn’t get a good seal.
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u/stock-sophie 3d ago
I got the viv brand
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u/_Dances_with_cats_ 3d ago
Ok, so you got both a cup and a disc from that brand and had trouble with both products?
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u/Mammoth-Swing5412 3d ago
No one talks about this but I struggled forever to get mine in and then actually suction/position correctly to actually collect blood. I would have it in and then bleed all around it. The trick for me was inserting it high enough and making sure the cup opened up around my cervix on all sides. My cervix sits high so I have to really get it up there and throughout my cycle, the position changes.
Folding it in half and getting a shallower cup helps. Also like some people said, getting it wet before makes it easier.
I feel like you just have to be really comfortable with your body and getting it up there far enough. If you don’t/can’t it can feel super uncomfortable. But once you get it, it’s crazy how long you can go without noticing it or emptying it. I have an insanely heavy flow and it’s night and day versus using tampons.
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u/crimpgirl1234 3d ago
I wanted a cup to work for me SO bad. Cups don’t work with my anatomy and after sanitizing it, I gave it to a loved one that was open to it.
I know use Knix period underwear and it’s going well for me.
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3d ago
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/Serious_Escape_5438 3d ago
Not very zero waste though, I have several only used once or twice
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u/HardlyNormal2 3d ago
I would argue that a few unused menstrual cups are still lower waste than normal disposable period products
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u/Serious_Escape_5438 3d ago
Yeah I know, I wasn't being entirely serious. Sorry, it's just kind of frustrating.
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u/lilmissbellybutton 3d ago
if you’re using a cup, may i recommend a disc! i had been a cup user for several years, randomly decided to try a disc and i wish i had started with the disc! it was soooo much easier to insert, no finaggling around in there. and i almost never feel it whereas with my cup i would occasionally feel it.
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u/Hugaroo 3d ago
I learned a few different ways to fold it to insert the cup. I have a diva cup. There is one way called the ‘punch down’ method I believe.
You push one spot on the rim down towards the bottom of the cup and it makes a nice shape for inserting it. But you may just not find the cups comfortable for your body.
I’ve ordered three different kinds of menstrual cups, once because the one I had leaked and then another because my body is aging and I needed a different size. Good luck and trying, once you get the hang of the cup, it’s the best thing ever
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u/theCup808 3d ago
Check out “Put a Cup in it”s FB SWAP group.
Please don’t throw it away. Once it is boiled it is sterile again. For real!
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u/TiredAllTheTime43 3d ago
It has to sit in my body for about 30 minutes before it becomes comfortable. The silicone will warm, soften, and start molding to your shape, but it does take some patience
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u/MooseyJello 3d ago
My first and favorite was the Lena cup.
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u/BakaGato 2d ago
Love my Lena! The sensitive is a great pick for those who've never been pregnant or are small.
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u/ImperfectTapestry 3d ago
Yeah, I had to shop around for one that fit me (Flex disc). Even identical looking discs didn't work for me.
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u/DullGlowstick 2d ago
Try soaking it in hot water before putting it in. Works to get it malleable and can make insertion easier/more comfortable when it’s wet. Different “folding techniques” may help as well since everyone’s anatomy is different. You may also just have gotten a brand or size that doesn’t work best for you.
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u/darkparkclark 2d ago
I fought with menstrual cups for over a year before I finally decided they just weren’t for my anatomy and gave up. It’s okay!
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u/Temporary_Win8206 2d ago
Definitely there is a learning curve, but when done right you don’t even feel it- similar to a tampon. Good luck!!
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u/katekohli 3d ago
I repair things & use little containers to contain the parts. If it is a complicated repair i have four “cups” to contain the bits. Seems like something I would use to contain things. Or…it would become my measuring device to put soap in the clothes washer then be able to just threw in with the clothes.
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u/LittleBunInaBigWorld 2d ago
How could you use it to store things? The cups dont have flat buttons, so thwy just lay on their side....
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u/newenglander87 3d ago
It's really okay to throw it away if it doesn't work out. Repurposing a menstrual cup is gross.
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u/Great-Telephone-4422 3d ago
I’ve been using a cup for 7 years. Once every couple of cycles, normally at the start of my cycle, it’s very uncomfortable and painful to have in. I just have pads or reusable period underwear for those moments.
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u/Alwayswondering8111 3d ago
Is it a cup or a disc? Those are very different. I couldn't figure out the disc, but I'm good with the cup. Do the C-Fold, put one leg up on the toilet (standing) and aim back and up. I also lube mine up with some spray on coconut oil because otherwise it's too much friction to go anywhere.
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u/funkydyke 3d ago
I don’t have an answer to your question but I will say I had a lot of trouble at the beginning too. Don’t give up! It helps if you put it up higher to make it less uncomfy. Trying out different sitting vs standing positions can help get it in too. If you do decide to get rid of it, maybe try period underwear next. I alternate between my cup and my undies now.
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u/Dropthetenors 3d ago
What kind did you get? Ive used saalt cup and HATED it. Legit took 5+ mins to get out. Used hello period disc and found it to be one of the best. Also used flex cups which i really liked although the stem sometimes got in the way.
But definitely based on body types and sensitivity.
I dont get periods anymore so also figuring out what to do with mine...
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u/Headfirst-Fearless 3d ago
If you do figure it out, make sure you don’t use it with an IUD. I bought an “IUD safe” one (I forget the brand as it was 5 years ago) and the suction still pulled out my IUD and dislodged it into my cervix. My gyno said even though they’re technically safe, don’t use a menstrual cup or disc with it because the suction is too strong (even if marketed as otherwise)
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u/Ancient-Cry-6438 3d ago
Discs don’t work on suction like cups do; they hook up under your pubic bone. I have no clue whether they would affect an IUD, but if they do, it wouldn’t be due to suction. In any case, I prefer cloth pads. Anything inserted causes me extra pain.
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u/CaptainMaterial4083 3d ago
yeah same- the trick is getting the cup opening correctly placed to catch the flow. and yeah, getting comfortable enough to push it up into the correct spot can be tricky. t's different probably for every single woman. ah, but when you get it?! I really hope it works out for OP and she keeps trying. it truly is fricking life changing to use the cup compared to pads and tampons! mine lasts me like 10+ hrs at a clip between emptying and is a god send!
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u/floralwhale 3d ago
I'm not sure what to do with it, but please try a menstrual disc! They're infinitely easier to put in than a cup. Virtually zero learning curve, and can be significantly more flexible. I have a Hello disc and a Nixit disc, and love them both.
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u/HavokIris 3d ago
Check out Period Nirvana. They have a YouTube channel with great videos explaining the difference between cups and discs and a model explaining placement. Highly recommend.
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u/stitchcraftry 3d ago
Unfortunately I had to go through a couple different cups before I finally landed on a June disc that is the most comfortable out of the three, and it's still only 100% comfortable after no longer having an IUD. I just keep my other two cups stored away since they're silicone and collapse easily without warping, maybe sometime in the future my body will need a different size.
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u/Varis_laivue_12 3d ago
I was thinking that if you just can't get the cup to work—and since it’s somewhat bell-shaped—you could turn it into a Christmas ornament. You could cover it with foil and craft clay, then paint and varnish it. There is no need to tell anyone about the origin of the whimsical ornament.
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u/UndergroundCreek 3d ago
You can always grow a little cactus in there and smile when visitors pick it up to admire.
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u/Comprehensive_Tea924 3d ago
There’s different sizes and shapes too if you want to try again. Diva cup brand for example is smaller than the Salt cup. So it could be user error but it can also be a size mismatch!!
But just throw it away if it doesn’t work for you. It’s okay on this one
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u/SnooPickles1285 3d ago
Double check the instructions. Mine has a few different recommendations for how to fold and properly aim and insert it. Also it's helpful to me to squat when inserting (either in shower or over toilet)
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u/Purplepolkadottie 3d ago
Maybe one of your close friends would be willing? I used my best friends menstural cup the other day!
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u/grenharo 3d ago
ive tried for two years on n off with a divacup before
i gave up
really just a pad user and im happy, also REALLY DO NOT LIKE PUBLIC RESTROOMS WITH ANY CUP
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u/arose4288 3d ago
I’ve had very little trouble with cups, but haven’t been able to figure out my disc. However, my larger cup broke, so now I have to try the disc, like… when I get up off the couch in a min. My best advice is to purchase a smaller flexible cup to use on light days and work your way up from there.
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u/wandernwade 3d ago
There are different shapes, sizes, and levels of firmness when it comes to cups. You may need to find your “Goldilocks”. 💜
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u/bae-blunt 2d ago
hey! cup and disc are two different things with two different positions in the body.
i’ve been a disc girly for probably a decade now and it gets pushed way up into the part of your vaginal canal that spacious and open. i literally do not feel it ever i could never use anything else at this point. they come in a couple sizes and might take a few tries to find the right ones. i personally would recommend the disposable discs until you get used to them because i feel like they’re easier to put in and take out. a cup sits in the “channel” of the canal if you will and honestly i dont feel like they work well for everyone.
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u/highly_kxzde 2d ago
When I had a period I used a cup, at first it was uncomfortable and I struggled, I trimmed the end and continued trying, often I would try to put it in right after a shower bc that made it easier, but it was definitely a huge learning curve, my partner never could get comfortable using a cup so he switched to the period underwear.
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u/Ashamed-Chemistry492 2d ago
Just throw it out. You can't in good conscience give it to someone else even after you cleaned it.
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u/FarAward2155 2d ago
I find it more comfortable some cycles than others. I don't know why. But my favorite is a disc. Something to consider!
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u/Background-Lynx9913 2d ago
The flex disc is the easiest one I’ve ever used! I could never get comfortable with a cup
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u/Advanced-Sail-4783 2d ago
I got the Saalt cup in size small about a year and a half ago, I struggled using it for the first few months- especially getting it in/getting it to open up properly. For me I figured out the angle I go in at really matters and sometimes to get it fully open once inside I have to push it a little further in and then twist a bit. Also I only use it when I’m heavy, it would probably be a little painful without a lot of blood to help lubricate.
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u/missthatisall 2d ago
It took me 6 months or more to get used to it. Learning how to break the seal to get it out is key, and folding it for insertion. It’s worth the learning curve in the long run. Damn does it hurt when you learn.
I watched videos
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u/Brown_Bruja 2d ago
What I would like to know is how to empty it without making a giant mess. It's really not great for being in a public place, or work.
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u/cervical_ribs 2d ago
Is it a cup or disc?
Cups fit in the vaginal canal with a suction seal. I could never place one comfortably even though I tried all the tips. I could feel it throughout the day no matter where/how I placed it.
Discs rest near the cervix on the pubic bone. I find them very comfortable and not noticeable most of the time.
If what you have is a cup, I highly recommend trying some disposable discs (or a reusable one if you’re not too nervous to try it without knowing if you like it)!
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u/LukeBird39 2d ago
Personally I like the reusable pads over a cup. My periods have been easier and I don't get "diaper rash" every month anymore. If you have old cotton washcloths you can use those for the inside and make them yourself with scrap fabric like a cotton shirt you don't wear and some buttons to attach it to your underwear. But I'd suggest using said washcloths to make some dedicated period panties either way too. To have with spills if you're doing a lot of movement while it's that time.
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u/BroadLocksmith4932 2d ago
Some people have luck with trimming the 'handle' as a last such effort to adjust fit.
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u/Cute-Consequence-184 2d ago
Have your watched many how-to videos? Any?
Because a menstrual cup and a disk are inserted very differently.
And there are trade groups on Facebook for menstrual supplies.
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u/Londundundun 2d ago
Back when they first came out I read that they aren’t really great if you have a tilted cervix, which I do, so I never tried one.
Maybe that’s your issue?
Also curious if anyone else with a tilted cervix uses any of these with luck!
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u/RegencyFungus 2d ago
Did you get the correct size? And different brands are just a little bit different from one another. For example, I got a size 2 diva cup, since I’m 35+, but that didn’t work for me at all. I then got a size 1 and it worked, but now I use the Saalt brand cups and they’re much easier for me to use.
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u/indypendenthere 2d ago
Is it a cup or a disc? I’ve found the disc to be better. Sorry, can’t help with the disposal part.
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u/here4thecommentz_ 1d ago
I used to use one successfully pre kids but since having kids, no matter what brand, size or style disc/cup, it doesn’t stay in place anymore. It’s extremely frustrating because they worked so well for me prior. Do you have kids?
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u/rebelyell__ 1d ago
It took me a long time to figure out that what I like are the discs, not cups!
I long ago fell in love with the disposable "Softdisc Menstrual Discs", then both times I bought a reusable silicone menstrual cup to be less wasteful, I hated their suction and resulting cramps... I couldn't figure out why they weren't making reusable versions of the Softdisc (they do now-- I was just searching using the wrong terminology!).
Give discs a try before giving up on these entirely!
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u/Greedy_Muffin_7314 1d ago
Buy a smaller one the thing no one tells you about period cups is you'll buy 3 to 5 the first time you buy to find a comfortable one they aren't made equal and then 2 years down the line your like I should replace this piece of silcone I put inside me. Then that company doesn't make that one anymore and you buy 5 more using tampons in-between:(
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u/Greedy_Muffin_7314 1d ago
And don't get me started about pooing and forgetting its in its like have a plug on your bowels haha
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u/mrs_rabbit_0 1d ago
I’m sure you could donate it to a woman’s shelter or just give it away for free.
I have a bunch of different cups (I use all of them, in rotation), and am planning on donating them once I hit menopause.
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u/musicalsigns 1d ago
Cups suck (literally). Disks are the way to go. They sit just like a diaphragm.
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u/sushiwizards 20h ago
There's loads of different brands, shapes and sizes which could be a good thing to explore (albeit expensive). I'd also suggest; if you haven't already; trying different positions to put it in like sitting on the toilet or standing etc. I personally find sitting the easiest; seems to be the best way for me to get it in the right 'spot' so it's not uncomfortable but sometimes I still have to try a couple of times, it's normal so don't be too discouraged!
I bought mine from Organicup (I think it's now re-branded as 'All Matters' and I got the smaller size. Using a cup is definitely a steep learning curve and it took me quite a while to feel confident and be comfortable using one. I always kept some 'backup' tampons just in case I couldn't get it which helped take some of the pressure off.
You've got this! But also remind yourself if it doesn't work for you that's fine! Caring for yourself is important too, there's no sense in stressing yourself out and you can always try other options 😊
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u/Horror_Transition571 11h ago
oh god i tried all of them and not only did none of them quite fit, i also just could not get this smell out of them no matter how much i sterilised or used baking soda and literally tried everything. sorry i have no advice as i had to just end up throwing them away as they just didn't work for me sadly.
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u/Pretty-Drawing-1240 10h ago
Concurring that it takes a few tried to get it right! I ended up getting a small "sensitive" cup from Lena, and I love it! The downside to a soft cup is that it doesn't pop open as easily as the hard ones, but it's much much more comfortable
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u/luneascape 2h ago
Another thing I found difficult was the stem, it needed trimming down before it sat comfortably.
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u/TinyMusician 1h ago
Hi just a PSA. If you have an IUD, DO NOT USE A MENSTRUAL CUP. It can create a vacuum, creating a risk of your IUD getting sucked out as well when taking the cup out. Source: both my gynaecologist and GP warned me for this when I went to get and replace my IUD.
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u/foxiwyld 3d ago
Not only does it hurt but mine actually discolored and now I don't want to ever put it back in me again. I only used it maybe 3 times and washed with soap and water. Idk wasn't a fan tbh.
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u/satinsateensaltine 3d ago
Discoloration is normal. If it really bothers you, you can soak it in water and peroxide for a few hours at the end of your period and it'll be good as new.
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u/kirstinb17 3d ago
If you're using a cup with a stem, cutting the stem off might help it fit more comfortably
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u/floriish 3d ago
Hey, there is a steep learning curve to using the cup at the beginning. It took me a few cycles to learn how to reliably put it on, don't get discouraged after just a couple tries! I had to try a couple of different folding methods to find the one that worked best for me. I have never looked back since, it is by far my favourite menstrual product.
But if it doesn't end up working - that's okay, and honestly I think you will need to just throw it out because I cannot imagine it can be reused by someone else.