What is a menstrual cup? Simply explained
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Learn about the benefits of the menstrual cup compared to tampons and sanitary pads. The eco-friendly and economical alternative for your period.
Are you tired of old-school period products and looking for a practical, comfortable, and eco-friendly alternative? A menstrual cup could be the perfect companion for your period — safe, easy to use, and truly sustainable. In this article, you'll discover why a menstrual cup can be a game-changer for your period cycle and what makes it stand out compared to tampons and pads.
The sustainable superstar: why the menstrual cup makes a difference. Did you know that with proper care, a menstrual cup can last for several years? Unlike disposable period products like tampons and pads, which need to be constantly replaced, using a period cup saves you money and massively reduces your environmental footprint. Switching to a menstrual cup not only benefits your wallet — it’s a meaningful step towards more eco-conscious menstruation.
Why the menstrual cup is the better choice?
Tired of constantly reaching for new tampons or pads? A menstrual cup could be exactly the solution you’re looking for. Compared to traditional period products like tampons and pads, a menstrual cup offers a range of advantages that can make managing your[menstrual cycle easier — while also reducing your impact on the environment. But what exactly makes it stand out? Here are the key reasons why a menstrual cup could be the better choice for your period cycle:
1. Sustainability: less waste, more environmental awareness
A menstrual cup is an eco-friendly period product. While tampons and pads are used for just a few hours and then thrown away, a menstrual cup is reusable and can last for years. By switching to a period cup, you actively help reduce the amount of waste caused by disposable period products. Plus, you won’t have to constantly restock supplies! You’re not only managing your menstrual cycle more practically and comfortably, but also making a direct contribution to environmental protection.
2. Longer-lasting comfort: up to 12 hours of protection
One of the biggest advantages of a menstrual cup compared to tampons and pads is how long you can wear it. You can safely wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours without needing to change it — perfect for busy days, traveling, or overnight use. No more frequent changes or worrying about leaks. The menstrual cup stays securely in place and provides consistent protection and comfort throughout the day. You can move freely during everyday activities, sports, or even swimming without worrying about period blood leaks. And yes, you can swim with a menstrual cup — it keeps you protected even in the water.
3. Fewer health risks: no risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
A menstrual cup isn’t just more sustainable — it’s also safer for your health. Unlike tampons, which are linked to the risk of toxic shock syndrome, a menstrual cup eliminates this concern. It’s made from high-quality, medical-grade silicone that’s completely safe and free from harmful chemicals. You can trust that your period cup won't compromise your health or expose you to toxic substances. And don't worry: once you know how to insert a menstrual cup correctly, it will sit securely without being placed too deeply. Just remember to remove it properly and stick to the recommended wear time for safe use.
4. Cost-effective: an investment that pays off
Compared to tampons and pads, which need to be bought regularly, a menstrual cup is a one-time investment that lasts for years. Over time, this saves you a significant amount of money. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also more affordable in the long run.Instead of continually buying new period products, you can cover your entire period cycle with just one menstrual cup.
5. Comfort: barely noticeable and extremely practical
Comfort is another major advantage of the menstrual cup. It fits securely and naturally adapts to your body. Thanks to its soft and flexible material, you’ll barely notice it’s there — no annoying strings or uncomfortable edges like with tampons and pads. Whether you're working out, doing yoga, or simply going about your day, you can move freely without discomfort. And if you’ve ever wondered how long you can leave a tampon in, a menstrual cup takes that stress away — you can safely wear it for up to 12 hours without worrying about frequent changes.
6. Easy to use: with a little practice, it’s simple
At first, using a menstrual cup might feel a bit unfamiliar — but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. You just need to fold it, insert it carefully, and ensure it fully opens to create a secure seal. Removing the menstrual cup is just as easy once you get used to it. If you're unsure how to use a menstrual cup, don't worry — we have helpful guides that walk you through the process. Check out our article: “How to fold a menstrual cup” for practical, easy-to-follow instructions.
7. Flexible sizing: the perfect fit for your body
One of the biggest strengths of the menstrual cup is how well it can be adapted to your needs. There are different sizes available, depending on your body and your flow during menstruation. This means you can easily find the best menstrual cup for you — offering maximum comfort and reliable performance throughout your period cycle.
Ready to experience a more sustainable and comfortable period?
Curious about making your menstrual cycle easier, greener, and more comfortable? Take a look at our PapayaCup Size Guide and find out which menstrual cup is the perfect fit for your body and your period cycle!
Menstrual cup vs tampons and pads: a clear advantage for you
When it comes to managing your menstrual cycle, a menstrual cup offers many advantages over traditional period products like tampons and pads. We’ve put together the most important benefits of using a period cup compared to tampons and pads — so you can make a well-informed decision for your period cycle.
Criteria | Menstrual cup | Tampons | Pads |
Wear time | Up to 12 hours (depending on the strength of your period) | Up to 8 hours | 4–8 hours depending on period cycle flow |
Comfort | Barely noticeable, no strings, no discomfort | Can sometimes be felt internally | Can feel uncomfortable or shift during movement |
Eco-friendliness | Reusable, reduces waste | Disposable, contributes to landfill | Disposable, contributes to landfill |
Hygiene | Easy to clean and hygienic with proper care | Absorbs period blood but can dry out mucous membranes | Can become unpleasant if not changed frequently |
Cost | One-time investment for several years | Regular purchases needed | Regular purchases needed |
Swimming possible? | Yes, menstrual cup stays securely in place even while swimming | Yes, but can feel uncomfortable, especially with heavy menstruation | Yes, but less comfortable during intense movement |
Suitability for heavy flow | Very suitable, large capacity | Suitable, but needs frequent changing | Suitable, but needs frequent changing |
Health risks | No risk of toxic shock syndrome, made from medical-grade silicone | Risk of toxic shock syndrome, especially if worn too long | No direct link to TSS, but hygiene issues can arise |
Why choosing a menstrual cup is the best decision?
A menstrual cup really stands out when it comes to sustainability, comfort, and cost savings. Tampons and pads require constant repurchasing, contribute significantly to waste, and can often feel uncomfortable — especially during a heavy period cycle. In contrast, a period cup offers you the benefits of long wear time, easy handling, and an eco-friendly solution that also saves you money. Plus, it’s a safe and healthy choice, making it an ideal option for anyone who wants to experience their period in a more sustainable and comfortable way.
Fun fact: Did you know that the average woman has about 450 to 500 periods over her lifetime? With a menstrual cycle of around 28 days and an average period lasting about 5 days, that adds up to an enormous number of tampons or pads! By switching to a reusable menstrual cup, you’re not only saving money — you’re making a huge contribution to environmental protection too.
Is a menstrual cup suitable for everyone?
A menstrual cup is a fantastic, sustainable alternative to traditional period products like tampons and pads. But is it really suitable for everyone? The short answer is: yes — but there are a few things to keep in mind. In this section, we’ll explain who a period cup is especially good for and when it might make sense to consider another option.
1. Who is a menstrual cup ideal for?
A menstrual cup is a great choice for anyone looking for a more eco-friendly way to manage their menstruation. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate the advantages of a menstrual cup and are willing to take a little time to learn how to use a menstrual cup properly. The cup is particularly beneficial for those who prefer longer wear times: depending on your flow, you can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours straight without needing to change it — perfect for busy days or long outings.
2. Menstrual cups for beginners – tips for getting started
If you’re using a menstrual cup for the first time, it might take a little practice. Many beginners report that they initially struggled with finding the right fit or learning how to insert a menstrual cup comfortably — and that’s completely normal!
It often helps to start with a smaller-sized period cup, which tends to be easier and more comfortable for first-time users. With a little practice, you'll quickly see just how simple and practical it can be to manage your period cycle this way.
3. When a menstrual cup might not be the best choice
Although menstrual cups work well for many people, they might not be ideal for everyone. Women with specific anatomical differences — such as a very low or high cervix — might find it more difficult to position the cup comfortably. In these cases, it can be helpful to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Also, if your menstrual cycle is very irregular or changes rapidly, it could affect which size or style of period cup works best for you.
4. What happens during the menstrual cycle?
Your menstrual cycle affects how often and how long you should wear your menstrual cup. At the beginning of your period, your flow is often heavier, meaning you might need to empty the cup more frequently. Later in the period cycle, when the flow lightens, you can typically leave the cup in for longer stretches. Still, experience shows that even on heavy flow days, a well-fitted menstrual cup reliably captures period blood and keeps you protected.
A menstrual cup is a sustainable and convenient solution for many people who want an alternative way to manage their period. Beginners can quickly get used to it, and with a little experience, you’ll find that a menstrual cup makes everyday life much easier. Choosing the right size and maintaining proper care are key to long-term success.
Ready for a more sustainable period with a menstrual cup?
Imagine your period without constant changes, without uncomfortable worries, and without piling up waste. Sounds good, right? A menstrual cup is the eco-friendly way to experience your menstrual cycle— comfortable, sustainable, and practical.
Our PapayaCup, manufactured in Germany, is designed to deliver the highest quality and safety. It adapts perfectly to your body and makes your [menstruation] a more relaxed, stress-free experience — better for you and better for the planet.
Not sure which menstrual cup is right for you? No problem! Our Size Guide will help you find the best menstrual cup for your needs. In just a few clicks, you’ll know exactly which size and shape fits you best.
Visit our shop, discover your ideal [period cup], and start your journey toward a more sustainable period cycle. And if you still have questions or need support, we’re always here for you! Just send us an email at info@papayacup.com — we’re happy to help!
