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Using the DivaCup
January 24, 2019 8:00 am | by
What's the deal with menstrual cups? A real review of the Diva Cup

using the divacupAlright, everyone. I made the switch. No, I didn’t switch from Verizon to T-Mobile. Or coffee to tea (pffft.. yeah, right!). I started using the DivaCup.

At first, I was unsure. No, scratch that. At first, I was REALLY unsure. And didn’t want to do it. Ever. But then I changed my mind. In fact, my feelings of uncertainty shifted significantly, and I became certain I WANTED to use the DivaCup. So I did. Now, I’m sharing my thoughts so you, too, can decide if you want to try this product.

How it Works

If you don’t know what the DivaCup is, you can learn more here. However, if you don’t feel like clicking that link, I’ll give you some insight: The DivaCup is a reusable menstrual product that is an alternative to disposable pads or tampons. It is a bell-shaped cup that is worn internally and sits under your cervix to collect menstrual flow, as opposed to absorbing it like other products.

Why I Use the DivaCup (and Why You Should Consider)

When I tell people I use the DivaCup, their first question is typically, “Why?” Well, for me, there are many reasons why I wanted to use the DivaCup, so let me explain.

  1. First, read this article. It’s scary. I want NO part of that — and neither should you!
  2. Second, disposable menstrual products give me TERRIBLE headaches. Every. Single. Time. Perhaps it’s because these products are filled with harmful chemicals like Dioxin. As you can imagine, using the DivaCup does not.
  3. I save money. I’ve been using the DivaCup for a few months, but I’ve already saved more than $50 on menstrual products. I’m literally flushing and throwing away money every time I use disposable pads and tampons. Here’s a fun fact: The average woman will use nearly 10,000 pads or tampons if she menstruates for 40 years and uses at least 20 products per cycle.
  4. The DivaCup is eco-friendly. I can sleep a bit better at night knowing I’m not creating unnecessary waste.
  5. It’s reliable. My DivaCup is here when I need it. I don’t have to run out to the store to stock up on pads and tampons in the middle of the night. It can also be worn for 12 hours, so I know I’m covered most of the day and don’t have to worry.
  6. I get a GOOD, leak-free fit. We’ve all been there – we had a leak, especially when your flow is heavy. It’s embarrassing. It’s messy. And it’s confusing. If you frequently shift around with your cup in, it won’t move out of place, decreasing the possibility of a leak. Can you say the same for pads?

What’s it made of?

  • The DivaCup is made from the highest-quality healthcare grade silicone
  • Free from latex, plastic, PVC, acrylic, acrylate, BPA, phthalate, elastomer, polyethylene, as well as colors, fragrances and dyes.

Is using the DivaCup hard?

Honestly, no. At first, I was nervous. I didn’t think I could do it. But let me tell you: If I can do it, anyone can. Follow the instructions because when you do, the DivaCup is actually pretty easy to use. For me, it was just as easy as using a tampon.  Here’s are some abbreviated instructions.

  1. Go to the bathroom with your DivaCup
  2. Wash your hands
  3. Fold the cup in half or into a “U” shape
  4. Insert and seal — make sure you have a good fit. Your cervix should be covered, with the “stem” of the cup near your tailbone.
  5. Go about your day like normal

Is it comfortable?

Yes! The first couple days after my switch took a bit of getting used to, but after a few cycles, I became so used to the DivaCup that I didn’t even feel it. It’s soft silicone — there are no strings, no bulk, no uncomfortable cramps. Since you can wear the DivaCup for 12 hours, it’s easy to forget about. Whether I was doing yoga, hanging out around the house, working, or running errands, I didn’t feel my cup — or experience leaks, which is super important to me. I felt comfortable physically and emotionally.

How do you clean it?

Most of the time, I removed and cleaned my cup in the shower. This was the easiest method for me. I also used this wash to clean it. If I were using the DivaCup away from home and had to remove and wash it on the go, I used this thing called the sink. Paper towels or personal cleansing wipes helped, too. Pro tip: Make sure to DUMP out the cup in the toilet before cleaning it in a sink. That brings me to another point. See below.

What do you do if you’re in public?

First off, I’d recommend empty and cleaning your cup at home, so you don’t have to deal with it while you’re out. But if you can’t, using your cup in public is no different than using it at your house. Just be sure you master the removal process. Seriously. Get the angle right. You DO NOT want to spill the contents on yourself, especially if you’re out in public. Don’t worry, though. This is a lot harder to do than you’d think. Also, in case you’re wondering, the DivaCup DOES NOT affect your ability to go to the bathroom. That’s one of the most common questions I get 🙂

What else do I need to know about the DivaCup?

  • Yes, it will fit. There two different sizes to choose from: Pre or post-childbirth.
  • No, it won’t get lost in “there.”
  • Yes, you can swim with it, just as you would tampons.
  • Practice makes perfect. You will get it right, but not on the first try.
  • It’s a cup that’s filled with your menstrual flow. Don’t be surprised when you remove it. The DivaCup can hold up to 30ml.
  • Give it a test run when you’re not on your period. You’ll get a better idea on how to use your cup and see what it feels like.
  • Store it in the cotton bag when not in use!
  • Just get over it. Make the switch already.What's the deal with menstrual cups? Pros and cons for trying the Diva Cup.

About the Author

Brittney is a social media coordinator for Cotton Babies. She has three sisters, loves pizza and enjoys listening to obscure bands no one has heard of. Outside of posting on the Cotton Babies Facebook and Instagram pages, she babysits a few cloth diaper-wearing kids and likes playing with her dogs.

Comments

2 Comments

  • Crystal Myers said...
    February 6, 2016 at 7:28 am

    I use something similar to the Diva cup too. I LOVE it! I always felt sick about how much waste was going into the landfill on my behalf. I’ve used my cup for about a year, and I’d never go back. Thanks for posting. We need to share the word on these little jewels! Thanks!!

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    January 29, 2016 at 7:46 pm

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