Although the first menstrual cup was patented way back in 1932, it’s only in the last few decades that the industry has boomed, and for people who menstruate, cups are a fantastic, eco-friendly, zero waste way to practice good period hygiene every single month.
However, if you’ve never used one before, getting your first cup can be a bit of a learning curve, as reusable menstrual cups can feel anywhere from a little intimidating to downright terrifying.
There are so many choices out there, with different sizes and styles, so how on Earth are you supposed to know how to find the best period cup for beginners?
Fear not, we have you covered! We’ve compiled some helpful information to get you started on the right track, along with a list of the best menstrual cups suitable for a new user.
So, whether you’re looking for the best mooncup for beginners, you’re seeking a soft menstrual cup for beginners, or have questions and require further information about period cups in general, we have everything you need to know.
Why Menstrual Cups are a Great Zero Waste Period Option
One of the first things many people ask when considering changing from sanitary pads and tampons over to a menstrual cup is, why do it?
The first good reason is health benefits. Menstrual cups are soft, non-toxic, silicone devices inserted into the vagina that collect the blood rather than absorb it, so they don’t cause bacteria, irritation, or give off any odors, making them really hygienic for the wearer.
Secondly, there’s the environment to consider. Many people don’t give much thought to how many tampons or sanitary pads they will use over the course of their lifetime’s menstrual cycle, or where the waste goes when the items are disposed of.
In fact, over a span of 10 years, the average person will go through 2500+ tampons, causing tons of waste in landfill sites. Tampons and sanitary pads don’t break down very easily either – which is why you should never flush them down the toilet!
In recent years, in London, England, something called a ‘fatberg’ was discovered blocking the sewers. This was a solidified block of waste, weighing approximately 130 tons, and it was caused mainly by tampons and sanitary products that were flushed down the toilet.
It can take an average tampon or pad several decades to fully degrade, and when you consider that one menstrual cup, when washed and cleaned correctly can last for 10 years or more, and even then, the silicone can be properly disposed of, you begin to see where even a small change can become the best option to protect the environment, not to mention save you lots of money.
Take a look below for our best menstrual cup brand for beginners (or experienced users) and consider making the change to a zero waste period today!
Pixie Menstrual Cup
Possibly one of the best feminine hygiene products on the market for beginners, Pixie Menstrual Cup also comes with instructions, an e-Book, a cotton storage bag, biodegradable wipes and some lube for insertion!
In fact, this company give a 100% happiness guarantee, and if you’re not delighted with your cup purchase, they’ll send you a new style or size for free. Pixie offers six different sizes and two styles of menstrual cups, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
These reusable silicone cups help to collect menstrual blood easily during your cycle by placing the cup into the vaginal canal. They are easy to insert and remove via a stem and have no odor, leaks or risk of TSS.
The company recommend the slim cup for those with a lower cervix or tilted uterus, and as the cups are soft, they don’t block the flow of urine, therefore, can be used seamlessly for up to 12 hours without having to remove or clean. They are a great option for those with an active lifestyle and they offer the best menstrual cup for beginners with heavy flow.
Also, every time one Pixie Menstrual Cup is purchased, they give one to someone in need, so you are making a conscious purchase too! To date, they have donated over 100,000 cups throughout the world.
Pros:
- Great soft menstrual cup for beginners
- Six different sizes for a perfect fit
- Also works as a conception cup
- Easy wear for up to 12 hours without removal
Intimina Lily Cup One
Intimina Lily Cup One is billed as the perfect starter – an ideal transition for teens and first-timers into the world of period cups.
This cup may be smaller, but it still has enough capacity to handle heavier periods, providing you with the protection you can count on all day long without rubbing, dryness or irritation, as the cup collects the blood, rather than absorbing it.
A leak-proof rim creates that all-important seal, and the Lily Cup One is also much easier to open than other competing products. To empty and clean, simply remove via the attached ring – a breeze, even for menstrual cup newbies!
The cup is manufactured from medical-grade silicone and is BPA free, phthalate free, hypoallergenic and contains zero harmful chemicals or bleaches, plus, it is reusable for up to a decade, providing it is washed properly after each use and stored correctly.
This gives you fantastic savings over the long-term on menstrual products, and you’re also doing your bit for the planet – one period at a time!
Pros:
- Collapsible; fits easily into any purse, bag or tote
- Lasts for up to ten years – washable and long-lasting
- Free of toxic ingredients, harmful chemicals and nasty plastics
- Petite shape for ease of use, ideal for menstrual cup beginners
Saalt Soft Silicone Menstrual Cup
If you’re ready to make the switch from tampons and pads to period cups, consider trying this soft menstrual cup, manufactured with 100% medical-grade silicone from Saalt.
The soft, flexible design moulds to your internal shape, offering easy insertion for first time users. It’s perfect for anybody with sensitivity or discomfort issues as it is completely free of all chemicals, BPA and harmful plastics, and this cup offers a full 12 hours of protection!
Saalt’s comfortable cup is dependable, easy to use and a great option for beginners. For teens or petite users, the manufacturer recommends starting with the Saalt small size cup, then progressing from there as you get used to using it. The small size is spacious enough to hold the equivalent of two or three tampons at one time and is suitable for light to normal flow of menstrual blood.
These softer silicone menstrual cups are also vegan and cruelty-free, packaged in plastic free, recyclable cardboard in a recyclable shipping container, making it great for our planet and saving you money on single-use period products!
Pros:
- Comes with a free carry bag for easy transportation
- Attractive eco-friendly design and packaging – inside and out
- Easy to care for – just rinse with water and mild soap after each use
- Soft, medical grade silicone, perfect for anyone with bladder sensitivities
FLEX Menstrual Cup (Slim Fit)
Whether you’re sleeping, swimming, working or exercising, FLEX has you covered. These cups are capable of holding the same amount of fluid as three super-absorbent tampons, for up to 12 hours at a time for worry-free protection, so no more rushing to the bathroom!
FLEXs’ unique design also means you never have to worry about your cup getting stuck. It’s the only cup in the world with a patented removal loop stem tab that offers easy extraction without breaking the seal, every single time.
The starter cup kits featured are uniquely customizable, ultrasoft, and the FLEX can be adjusted to be made shorter or longer, therefore, suiting many shapes and sizes. The slim fit in particular is a perfect size for anybody just starting their menstrual cup journey.
These kits are equipped with a FLEX cup, plus two FLEX discs, and they are presented in a handy carry pouch for traveling.
Pros:
- FDA registered, hypoallergenic, free of BPAs and phthalates
- Ultra soft, 100% medical grade silicone design
- Easy to remove, with no mess and no fuss
- Reusable for years to come, saving you money
Lena Menstrual Cup
The Lena Menstrual Cup sits comfortably between your vaginal walls all day long, promising to enhance the menstrual cup experience and your period.
If you’re seeking an odor-free, leak-free and irritation-free period option, and you want to save a little money too, Lena may be the right menstrual cup for you.
These cups are great for those with an active lifestyle, lasting up to 12 hours without leaking once. They allow you to run, jump, swim and even sleep in them while maintaining optimal performance at all times.
They are made using medical grade silicone in the USA and the manufacturer guarantees total biocompatibility, meaning, the Lena is free of BPA’s, latex, dioxins and is entirely hypoallergenic, plus, with the correct care, these cups can last for years.
First time users with a light, medium or a heavy period can choose the Lena small regardless of flow.
Pros:
- Choose from three colors if you need to differentiate
- Made in California, USA, cutting down on carbon emissions
- 12 hours of wear, even for those with the heaviest flows
- Soft and kinder to sensitive wearers – ideal for beginners
Lunette Reusable Menstrual Cup
It’s easy to forget that you’re wearing a cup when you choose the Lunette Reusable Menstrual Cup. It’s soft and flexible, in a range of colors, offering all-day comfort, regardless of your activity. In fact, if you’re looking for the best beginner period cup, this one ranks pretty highly on the list.
The menstrual cup is cleverly designed with a stem, ridges and larger air holes and it can be inserted and removed much easier than competing cups on the market. It’s crafted from the highest quality, BPA free natural grade silicone with a superior bell shape for a wider capacity and a more fixed placement.
The Lunette also benefits from a smooth interior, making cleaning easy, and because it collects, rather than absorbs fluids, the vaginal canal stays healthy and naturally lubricated. Unlike tampons, this menstrual cup won’t irritate you, even if you leave it in all day.
The Lunette is body safe, only requiring 2-4 empties each day depending on your flow, and it can stay in place for up to 12 hours without removal. It’s easy for beginners to use too – simply fold it up, pop it in and you’re good to go!
Pros:
- Bell shaped for more capacity and an easier fit
- Lighter, softer material, ideal for teens and beginners
- BPA, chemical free, body safe and vagina-friendly
- Medical grade silicone – soft and durable
DivaCup Model 1 Menstrual Cup
Manufactured using only medical grade silicone with zero chemicals, dyes or plastics, the DivaCup is an OG in the menstrual cup business.
It’s a popular model for first-time menstrual cup users and is specifically designed for those aged between 19 and 34, who haven’t given birth vaginally.
In short, Model 1 is the ideal fit for a smaller, tighter vagina. The company features three sizes in total, therefore, if this one doesn’t suit, you’re sure to find a cup to suit your needs.
As hygienic as it is comfortable and convenient, you can wear the DivaCup for up to twelve hours at a time. It is reusable and will last for years to come, plus, it offers leak-free comfort that changes the way you experience your periods.
A certified B Corp company, DivaCup also has a Social Impact program that helps to eradicate period poverty and improves education and resources around women’s menstrual health.
Pros:
- One of the longest-standing menstrual cup brands – dependable
- Perfect for beginners, designed for those aged 19-34
- Certified by medical professionals
- BPA, plastic, chemical and dye free – just medical grade silicone
Cora Menstrual Cup & Cup Cleanse Reusable Bundle
The Cora Menstrual Period Cup was designed by women with the intention of it being an effortless way to experience your period each month.
The reusable cup is constructed using premium, ultra-soft, medical grade silicone, free from BPA’s and chemicals and it offers all day and night protection, giving you up to 12 hours of continuous wear without any leaks.
It’s as easy as a tampon to fold and insert into the vagina, thanks to a finger indent and buttery soft silicone, and the textured, tapered base offers a slip-free grip and easy removal with no spills.
Although the cups can be reused for up to 10 years when cared for properly, if you’re not totally satisfied with the product, or its fit, the company promise to make it right, offering an exchange for a different size or full refund.
Pros:
- Every purchase provides menstrual pads and education for people who menstruate across the world
- BPA, plastic and toxin free, just soft silicone
- No-fuss Perfect Fit Guarantee
- Comes with a vagina-friendly cleaning solution that keeps the cup in tip-top condition
Dutchess Menstrual Cups
Don’t worry about leaks while jogging, doing a yoga class or swimming in the pool again, as Dutchess Menstrual Cups always stay in place, and can be worn for up to 12 hours continuously!
Made from the softest, medical grade silicone, these comfortable cups are an eco-friendly alternative to tampons and pads, plus, they also come with a handy portable pouch for travel.
The flexible cups in pink and purple are soft and easy to pop in – simply fold in half and make a U shape before inserting, and they can be removed with ease too, thanks to an adjustable stem.
The company recommends that first time users opt for size B for light to normal flow and low cervix, while more experienced cup users can choose size A for normal to heavy flow, post childbirth, as they will fit better.
With proper care and cleaning, one single menstrual cup can last for up to 10 years, that’s the equivalent of using 2,500 tampons over the same amount of time, making the cups an eco-friendly option for the environment, and your health.
Pros:
- Up to 12 hours of wear without removal
- BPA, phthalate, latex, dioxin and fragrance free
- Leakproof, reusable and can last up to 10 years
- Eradicates single use sanitary products, thanks to longevity
Athena Menstrual Cup
Reasonably priced and manufactured in colors to suit your monthly mood, the Athena Menstrual Cup has a whopping 15-year lifespan if used and cleaned correctly.
A short, solid stem and soft silicone shape makes insertion easy and comfortable, and one Athena cup of menstrual blood is the equivalent of using five tampons so you’re doing your bit for the planet too!
These cups offer 12 hour protection all day and night – ideal for those with busy lifestyles, and once the seal is formed you won’t even know you are wearing it, it’s that comfortable.
Athena Menstrual Cups come in two sizes – smaller for light or regular flow (great for teens or beginners) and a larger size (featured) for experienced users and heavy period flows.
They are hypoallergenic, BPA, phthalate, latex and dioxin free, plus, they are curated with the highest grades of silicone and dyes, putting your health and safety first.
Pros:
- Lasts for up to 15 years with good care
- Comfortable to wear for longer times
- 100% biodegradable, sustainable packaging
- Hypoallergenic, BPA and toxin free
Making The Switch – Benefits Of Using A Menstrual Cup
- Saves you money:
Instead of buying single use menstrual products on a monthly basis (or more frequently), make a one-time purchase that will last for the next five years or longer. Some manufacturers claim their cups are good for up to a decade or more!
- Safer to use than a tampon:
Because these cups collect your blood rather than absorb it, there is far less chance of experiencing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), discomfort, irritation or any of the other side effects that you get with tampons.
- Wearable for longer than pads and tampons:
As menstrual cups are shaped cleverly to hold as much blood as possible, they can be worn for far longer than single use sanitary products, even for an entire night of sleep, without any leaking.
- Can be used with an IUD:
Unlike other menstrual products that are inserted, you can use a menstrual cup whilst also having an IUD fitted, which is very convenient and a lot more comfortable.
- May reduce symptoms including cramping:
Lots of people who menstruate report that their cramps are less intense when they use a menstrual cup, although this is yet to be proven by a scientific study or any research.
- No odor:
Unlike pads and tampons, menstrual fluid collected in a cup does not develop an odor, as it isn’t exposed to any air while you’re wearing it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Menstrual Cups
Do you have to boil a menstrual cup before first use?
It’s widely encouraged that you do, and most manufacturers will put this in their instructions. When we say boil, we don’t mean literally put it in a saucepan on your stovetop, so don’t do that.
Simply boil some water separately, then place the menstrual cup in there for ten minutes and not a second longer. You need to keep a close eye on it, as it could well get caught on the bottom of the pot and melt if left alone for too long!
Is it safe to sleep with a menstrual cup?
It is! Bulky, uncomfortable, sanitary towels can leave you tossing and turning; therefore, a menstrual cup is a fantastic alternative. It’s far safer than leaving a tampon inserted for more than the recommended eight hours at the risk of developing infection or dealing with an itchy maxi pad!
One benefit of sleeping with a menstrual cup inserted is, that a cup can be worn for up to twelve hours without needing to be emptied (depending on the size, the hours of wear may vary), allowing you to get your all-important beauty sleep without having to wake up and change.
Can menstrual cups cause damage?
They don’t cause damage as long as they are used correctly. If you’re inserting and removing a menstrual cup as instructed, there’s no reason why you should suffer any side effects. However, there is evidence to suggest that when used incorrectly, there may be cause for concern.
According to the UK’s Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, menstrual cups could be responsible for those who menstruate suffering from pelvic organ prolapse. If your pelvic floor – the group of muscles and tissues supporting your pelvic organs becomes weak, it struggles to hold everything in place.
This can result in either one or multiple organs becoming displaced, pressing abnormally against your vagina and causing a great deal of discomfort. Although the symptoms are manageable with regular pelvic floor workouts and changes to your everyday routine, it’s possible that medical intervention might be necessary.