What is a menstrual cup? A beginner's guide to reusable period care
Lucy MeacherWhat is a menstrual cup?
If that’s a question you find yourself typing into Google, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Menstrual cups have grown hugely in popularity over the past few years, but for many people who want to switch, they still feel unfamiliar or even a little intimidating.
So let’s break it down gently, clearly, and honestly.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual (or period) cup is a reusable period product worn internally to collect menstrual blood. Most period cups are made from medical grade silicone and can be worn safely for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow.
Unlike pads or tampons, a cup collects blood rather than absorbing it - which means fewer changes, less waste, and often a more comfortable period experience.
How does a menstrual cup work?
Using a cup can be tricky to get the hang of, but once you’ve practiced, it’s super easy!
- The cup is folded and gently inserted into the vaginal canal
- Once inserted, it opens and forms a soft seal
- It sits below the cervix, collecting menstrual flow
- When it’s time to empty, you pinch the base of the cup to remove, rinse, and reinsert
Because the cup creates a seal, it’s very effective at preventing leaks when positioned correctly. Find out more about how to use a menstrual cup, how to fold a menstrual cup, and how to clean a menstrual cup.
What are menstrual cups made from?
Eleria cups are made from medical grade silicone. This material is used because it’s:
- Super soft and flexible
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-porous (so its harder for bacteria to grow inside it)
- Long-lasting and durable
People are often surprised at how soft our period cups are!
Menstrual cups vs pads and tampons
The biggest difference between reusable cups and disposable products, such as pads and tampons, is how they manage your period.
Pads and tampons absorb blood, which means:
- They need changing frequently
- They can feel damp or uncomfortable
- They create ongoing waste (and cost a lot in the long run!)
Period cups collect blood instead. This means:
- You can wear them for longer
- There's no dryness or irritation from absorption
- Fewer changes throughout the day
- Far less waste over time (and save £££!)
Many people find cups feel more discreet and freeing once they get used to them!
Are menstrual cups safe?
Yes! Menstrual cups are considered very safe when used and cleaned properly.
Medical-grade silicone is body-safe, and lowers the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). As with any period product, good hygiene matters:
- Emptying regularly
- Cleaning between uses
- Sterilising between cycles
When cared for correctly, a single cup can last for up to 10 years! Read more on how and when to clean and sterilise your menstrual cup. Read our ‘Are menstrual cups safe?’ blog post for more.
Do menstrual cups hurt?
A cup shouldn't hurt when inserted correctly. Most people say they can’t feel their cup at all once it’s in place.
If a cup is uncomfortable, it could be due to:
- The angle of insertion
- Cup shape, size, or firmness
- Pelvic floor tension
- The cup not fully opening
These are very common issues that are almost always fixable with small adjustments! For more on this, read our ‘Do menstrual cups hurt?’ blog post.
Are menstrual cups messy?
This is another extremely common concern, that often prevent people from giving period cups a go. They can be messy whilst you’re learning, but once you get the hang of insertion, removal, and timing, most people find them less messy than pads or tampons.
Because the blood stays contained inside the cup, there’s no soaked pad or tampon to deal with - and leaks are far less common when the cup is positioned correctly.
For more information, read our ‘Are menstrual cups messy?’ blog post.
Who are menstrual cups best for?
They can work well for lots of different people, including (but not limited to):
- Beginners to reusable period care
- Students and people with longer days out/work schedules
- Those with a heavier or unpredictable flow
- People who exercise or swim during their period
- Anyone looking for a more sustainable option
There's no “right” body type or lifestyle for a cup – just a little patience while you learn what works for you!
Finally, here are some of the top reasons our customers love their Eleria cups
- Convenience: longer wear-time of up to 12 hours a day
- Confidence in leak-free protection!
- Allows them to reduce their single-use waste
- Long-term cost savings
- Freedom to travel without the stress and hassle of single-use products!
Why choose Eleria?
Eleria Period Cups are designed with comfort, confidence, and real-life use in mind.
We have a range of colours, shapes, and sizes to choose from, so there is sure to be something for everyone looking to try sustainable period products! If you’re not sure which one is right for you, take our Cup Quiz!
Paired with our Cleaning & Sterilising Case, we have created a simple, convenient system ideal for public bathrooms, work, travel, and everyday life.
Like anything new, using a period cup can take a little practice. But for many people, that learning curve is short - and the payoff is a period that feels simpler, cleaner, and more comfortable.
If you’re curious, nervous, or just starting out, we hope this guide has helped you to feel more confident in opting for reusable alternatives for your period routine!
