everything you need to know about menstrual cups

Date Created: 8th of January 2024
Date Modified: 19th of April 2025
Read Time: 5 minutes

introduction

If you are researching reusable period care, it is worth understanding the difference between menstrual cups and menstrual discs. In Australia, many people are looking for more comfortable, lower-waste alternatives to pads and tampons. Disposable period products also create significant landfill waste, which is one reason reusable options continue to grow in popularity. This guide explains what menstrual cups are, how they compare with a reusable menstrual disc, and what to consider when choosing the right fit for your body and lifestyle.

what are menstrual cups?

Menstrual cups are reusable internal period products designed to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorb it. They are usually made from medical-grade silicone, latex, or TPE and sit lower in the vaginal canal than a menstrual disc. Many people choose a cup because it can be worn for several hours, reused for years with proper care, and may reduce the ongoing cost of period care.

types of menstrual cups and period cup alternatives

bell-shaped menstrual cups

This is the most common menstrual cup design. A bell-shaped cup sits in the vaginal canal and creates a seal using gentle suction. It can work well for many users, but it is not designed for penetrative sex and may take a little practice to position comfortably.

ring-shaped menstrual discs

A menstrual disc has a different shape and sits in the vaginal fornix, higher than a cup. Because it does not rely on suction, many people find a reusable menstrual disc easier to wear with an IUD and more comfortable once positioned correctly. For some users searching for the best menstrual disc in Australia, comfort, flexibility, and easier removal are key reasons they switch from cups to discs.

benefits of using menstrual cups

longer wear between changes

Menstrual cups can usually be worn for several hours before they need to be emptied, depending on your flow. That can mean fewer bathroom trips and less disruption during work, study, travel, or sleep.

reusable and cost-effective

With proper care, one menstrual cup can last for years. Over time, that can make it a more economical option than continually buying disposable period products each month.

higher capacity than many traditional products

Many menstrual cups hold more fluid than standard pads or tampons, which can be useful on heavier days or for people who prefer fewer changes throughout the day.

suited to active lifestyles

For many users, cups offer reliable internal protection while swimming, exercising, working long shifts, or sleeping. The right fit is important, but once inserted properly, a cup can feel secure and discreet.

common challenges with menstrual cups

there can be a learning curve

Using a menstrual cup often becomes easier with practice, but insertion, removal, and getting a proper seal can take a few cycles to get used to. This is one reason some people explore menstrual discs as an alternative.

fit matters more than many people expect

Cups come in different shapes, firmness levels, and sizes. Factors such as flow, cervix height, pelvic floor strength, comfort preferences, and birth history can all affect which option feels best.

cleaning and sterilising is important

Reusable period products need regular cleaning. Rinsing during your cycle and sterilising between cycles helps maintain good menstrual hygiene and supports safer long-term use.

safety and compatibility

toxic shock syndrome (tss)

TSS is rare, but it is still important to follow product instructions carefully, wash hands before handling your cup, and empty and clean it as recommended. If you have questions about wear time or symptoms that concern you, seek medical advice.

vaginal health and materials

Menstrual cups are commonly made from body-safe materials such as medical-grade silicone. Many users prefer them because they collect fluid rather than absorb it, which may feel less drying than some disposable products.

using a menstrual cup with an iud

Some people use a cup and an IUD without issue, but removal technique matters because cups use suction. If you have an IUD and are unsure what will suit you best, a menstrual disc may be worth considering, as discs sit differently and do not rely on suction. Speak with your doctor for personalised advice.

how to use a menstrual cup

choosing your size

Most brands offer at least two sizes. Age, birth history, flow, and anatomy can influence what feels most comfortable. If you are comparing sizes across reusable period products, you can also explore options such as a large menstrual disc for a different fit and capacity profile.

insertion

To insert a cup, fold it, guide it into the vaginal canal, and allow it to open fully. Some users gently rotate the cup or run a finger around the base to check that it has opened and sealed properly.

removal

Relax your body, locate the base of the cup, and pinch it to break the seal before removing it slowly. Empty the fluid, rinse the cup, and reinsert it if needed. Taking your time usually makes removal easier and more comfortable.

menstrual cup materials and cleaning

what menstrual cups are made of

Most menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, while some are produced using latex or TPE. Checking the material is important if you have sensitivities or want a softer or firmer feel.

cleaning tips

During your period, rinse your cup with clean water and a suitable unscented cleanser if needed. At the end of your cycle, sterilise it according to the brand's instructions before storing it in a breathable container. Avoid heavily fragranced products that may irritate sensitive skin.

environmental benefits of menstrual cups

reducing landfill waste

One reusable cup can replace a large number of single-use pads and tampons over time. For people trying to reduce household waste, that can be one of the biggest benefits of switching to reusable period care.

less frequent buying and less packaging

Because cups are designed for repeated use, they usually involve less packaging and fewer ongoing purchases than disposable products. That can make them a practical choice for people who want a lower-waste routine.

are menstrual discs a better option?

For some people, yes. While menstrual cups remain a popular reusable option, menstrual discs offer a different fit and experience. A reusable menstrual disc sits higher in the body, does not rely on suction, and can often feel more natural once in place. Many users also like that some discs can be worn during sex and may feel easier to manage with an IUD.

If you are comparing a cup with the best menstrual disc options, the right choice comes down to your anatomy, comfort preferences, flow, and lifestyle. For those looking for a menstrual disc in Australia, exploring both options can help you find the reusable period product that suits you best.