Although menstrual cups have been around for a while, they’re still not as popular as pads and tampons. Many women hesitate to try them due to concerns about hygiene, safety, and comfort—fears fueled by common misconceptions. However, there are great reasons to switch to a menstrual cup.
If you’ve ever wondered whether menstrual cups are messy, concerned about their safety, or thinking they’re just not for you, this article is here to set the record straight! Let’s bust five of the biggest menstrual cup myths so you can make an informed decision about your period care.
Myth 1: Virgins Can’t Use Menstrual Cups
One of the biggest myths is that menstrual cups are unsuitable for virgins. Many people believe that inserting a cup will break the hymen or cause pain, leading them to think only sexually active women can use one.
The Truth: Anyone Can Use a Menstrual Cup—Virgin or Not!
The hymen is a thin, stretchy membrane at the vaginal opening that naturally changes over time due to exercise, movement, and even tampon use. In fact, for many people, the hymen already has an opening large enough for a menstrual cup to pass through without “breaking” anything.
If you’re new to menstrual cups, choosing the right size is key! Ivy Cup offers beginner-friendly options designed for comfort. Check out our sizing quiz here. For smoother insertion, try different cup folding techniques like the 7-fold or punch-down fold, and always relax your pelvic muscles while inserting.
Myth 2: Menstrual Cups Can Get Stuck or Lost Inside the Body
If you’ve ever worried that your cup might disappear into the abyss, you’re not alone. Many first-time users fear they won’t be able to remove it.
The Truth: Your Menstrual Cup Can’t Go Anywhere It Shouldn’t!
The vagina isn’t an endless tunnel—it has a definite end at the cervix, which is too small for a menstrual cup to pass through. So no, your cup won’t get lost!
If removal feels tricky, try these expert tips:
- Relax and breathe—tense muscles make removal harder.
- Bear down gently—this pushes the cup lower for easier reach.
- Break the seal by pinching the base before pulling.
Choosing the best menstrual cup for beginners ensures a snug but easy-to-remove fit.
Myth 3: Menstrual Cups Are Messy and Unhygienic
Many people picture blood spilling everywhere when they think about emptying a cup. Others worry that reusable products aren’t as sanitary as disposable pads or tampons.
The Truth: Menstrual Cups Are One of the Cleanest Period Products!
A properly inserted menstrual cup prevents leaks and holds fluid securely. Emptying it is as simple as tilting it into the toilet—no mess involved.
Keeping It Clean is Easy:
- Wash your cup with mild soap and water after each use.
- Sterilize it between cycles by boiling it for 5–10 minutes.
- Store it in a breathable pouch to keep it fresh.
Since menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, they don’t breed bacteria like pads or tampons can. In fact, they’re more hygienic because they don’t trap moisture against your skin!
Myth 4: Menstrual Cups Are Unsafe
Some women worry that using a menstrual cup could cause infections or disrupt their vaginal health.
The Truth: Menstrual Cups Are Completely Safe—And Healthier Than Tampons!
Unlike tampons, which absorb everything (including your vagina’s natural moisture), menstrual cups only collect fluid. This helps maintain the vagina’s natural balance and reduces the risk of irritation or dryness.
Plus, cups are free from chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, making them safer for sensitive skin.
Do Menstrual Cups Cause Infections?
Nope! When used correctly, menstrual cups are actually less likely to cause infections compared to tampons. That’s because they don’t introduce fibers or disrupt the vaginal flora. Just be sure to wash your hands before inserting or removing your cup!
Myth 5: Menstrual Cups Are Only for People with Heavy Flow
Some believe menstrual cups are meant only for those with a heavy period, making them unnecessary or uncomfortable for light flow days.
The Truth: Menstrual Cups Work for ALL Flow Levels!
Menstrual cups come in different sizes to suit light, moderate, and heavy flows. If you have a lighter flow, you can choose our smaller, model A cup for extra comfort.
And since a cup can be worn for up to 12 hours, it’s perfect for light days—you won’t have to change it as often as you would a pad or tampon! Find your cup size here.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Myths Hold You Back!
Menstrual cups are safe, comfortable, and life-changing once you get the hang of them. Still hesitant? Start with a beginner-friendly cup like Ivy Cup, designed for a perfect, leak-free fit.
With Ivy Cup, you can enjoy a stress-free, eco-friendly, and hassle-free period. Ready to switch? Give it a try—you might never go back to pads or tampons again!