If you’ve ever heard someone mention a menstrual cup and thought, Wait, what even is that?, you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of those products that gets talked about more and more, yet still feels a bit mysterious until you really look into it.
So let’s break it down—clearly, simply, and without all the jargon because you deserve accurate answers if you are interested.
A Menstrual Cup Is… Exactly What It Sounds Like
At its core, a menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup that you insert into the vagina during your period. It’s made of soft, medical-grade materials like silicone, rubber, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)—all safe for long-term use inside the body.
Instead of absorbing menstrual fluid like a tampon or pad, the cup collects it. When it’s full (or after several hours), you remove it, empty it into the toilet, rinse or wipe it clean, and reinsert it. At the end of your cycle, you give it a deeper clean and store it away for next time.
That’s the basic process—and for many people, it quickly becomes second nature.
How Big Is It? Does It Hurt?
This is one of the most common questions. Menstrual cups are generally about 1.5 to 2 inches long and roughly the width of a shot glass. That might sound big, but they’re designed to fold up small for insertion. Once inside and properly positioned, you typically don’t feel it at all.
And no—it shouldn’t hurt. A properly fitted cup should be so comfortable that it practically disappears. But as with anything new, it can take a cycle or two to get used to how it works and what feels best.
Why Would Someone Use One?
Lots of reasons, actually. Some people try it because they want to reduce waste or stop spending money on disposable products. Others are looking for a more comfortable option or want to avoid added chemicals often found in pads and tampons.
Here are a few of the first-degree benefits:
- Long wear time: Depending on your flow, you can wear cups for up to 12 hours at a time.
- Less waste: Years’ worth of single-use period products can be replaced by a single cup.
- Cost savings: You buy it once, and it can last for 5 to 10 years with proper care.
- Comfort: No strings, no shifting, no bulk.
- Fewer surprises: With the right cup, you’re less likely to run out of supplies or deal with unexpected leaks.
Are All Cups the Same?
Not quite. They vary in terms of firmness, size, and shape. Some are designed for higher or lower cervixes, some for heavier flows, and others for beginners who want something softer and easier to fold.
That variety is a good thing—it means there’s probably a cup out there that fits your body well. But it can also make choosing your first one a little confusing.
How Do I Know Which One to Try?
If you find yourself overwhelmed by all of the potential, you are not isolated. That’s why menstrual cup quizzes exist. They ask simple, relevant questions about your flow, anatomy, and lifestyle, then suggest a few models that are likely to fit your needs.
It’s one of the easiest ways to get started, especially if you’re trying to avoid spending money on something that might not work for you.
In Short
A reusable, body-safe substitute for pads and tampons, a menstrual cup gathers menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it. It’s comfortable when it fits well, can be worn for hours at a time, and helps you save money while creating less waste.
If you’re even a little curious, taking a quiz can help you figure out where to begin. No pressure. Just a bit of guidance—and maybe a more comfortable, affordable period ahead.