With that in mind, we answer some of the most common questions about menstrual cups, including how to use one, and we test and suggest some of the best menstrual cups to try for anyone who has periods, whether you're a beginner or a pro. The length of the cup or stem you want (which differs slightly between brands) depends on how low your cervix sits during your period. This is where you might need to experiment with fit a bit. You can also use your fingers to judge how low your cervix is sitting.

Good value for money/saves money over time (46%) 'They are just like using sanitary towels and pads but cheaper – a good money-saving option.' This is one of the more obvious impracticalities of using a menstrual cup. But as they have become more mainstream, a whole mini-industry has popped up to make menstrual cup cleaning simpler. I should note that I’m a virgin and have never even used a tampon before, so don’t worry that it’ll be too big or that you need to try a tampon first or anything like that! l’Il admit that I wanted to throw it across the room at first attempt, but once I’d gotten it in for the first time, I knew I was onto a winner. (I use the punch down fold, I’d recommend it).”– LauraI can wear them for long periods of time (39%)' I think they are brilliant, last longer than a tampon and no leakage.' During your period, you can simply rinse your menstrual cup with water or wipe it with a tissue after emptying it, and reinsert it. I’ve only been using it for two cycles (never used tampons before, just pads) and I’m getting into the swing of things now. I’ve no idea how I coped with pads for so long, as this thing is amazing.

Plus, we reveal how users rated popular brands including Mooncup, Divacup, Tampax and Boots for things like comfort and leak protection, based on our unique survey of menstrual cup users. Once the Mooncup is inside it opens up and forms a light seal with the vaginal wall which holds it in place.

Why Mooncup?

In 2023, Mooncup officially join the &SISTERS family, a family-run sustainable period care brand specialising in compostable pads, tampons and liners. A menstrual cup is a small, foldable, reusable device made from silicone, rubber or plastic that collects, rather than absorbs, the menstrual blood when inserted into the vagina. Mooncup ® is the brand name of the first medical grade silicone menstrual cup in the world. What is a Mooncup?

The last few months I have been plagued with really heavy menstrual cycles, so much so I would soak a pad every hour. As I never got on with Tampons I took to sleeping in the bath. Since I discovered Mooncup I have managed to get a good night’s sleep! As the cup holds a lot more than a pad and for me has not leaked I can safely say these last 3 days have been the happiest I have been, not to mention well rested. I would recommend this to anyone with heavy periods.” – NicSu first came across a menstrual cup when she was travelling around Australia in 2000 and started to import and distribute it to friends and friends of friends when she came home to the UK. But discovering that some had a reaction to the latex in this rubber cup, she researched hypoallergenic alternatives and invented the world’s first reusable, medical grade silicone menstrual cup, trademarked as the Mooncup® in the spring of 2002.

Awkward/difficult to wash when not at home (34%) 'Great for reducing waste but not ideal for when you need to change it as some changing rooms don't have sinks to clean. But great for lighter periods.'Some cups are more soft and pliable while other are more firm. Some people might find softer cups easier to insert, and those with sensitive bladders may prefer a softer cup it won't have the same level of outward pressure as a firmer cup. Mooncup The Mooncup is designed by women for your comfort and convenience. Made in the UK, the soft medical grade silicone Mooncup holds three times as much as a tampon, making it great for heavy days. And, because it’s non-absorbent, it won’t cause dryness when your period’s light. You only need one Mooncup, which lasts for years. Suitable for women with sensitive skin and allergies. Unlike tampons, the Mooncup won’t expose your body to pesticides or bleaches, leave fibres behind or dry you out. And because there’s no string, the Mooncup is completely discreet, whatever you’re wearing. Ideal for travelling, swimming, and exercise. Thankfully, the concept has gained more widespread popularity and recognition since the early 2000s when the Mooncup menstrual cup was invented. Who invented the Mooncup?