Switching to a menstrual cup can feel like a big leap, especially if you’ve used pads or tampons your whole life. But you’re not alone. More women in Nigeria and around the world are embracing menstrual cups as a safe, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative.

If you’re considering buying a menstrual cup for the first time, this guide covers everything you need to know before making the switch.

What Is a Menstrual Cup and How Does It Work?

A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup made from medical-grade silicone that’s inserted into the vagina to collect period blood. Unlike pads or tampons, it doesn’t absorb blood. It holds it. Once full (or after 8-12 hours), remove it, empty it, rinse it, and reinsert it. Easy peasy!

Why it’s different:

• It can be reused for up to 5 years.
• It’s better for the environment.
• It saves you money over time.
• It reduces odor, leaks, and waste.

Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup (Especially for First-Time Users)

Why so many women are switching:

• Fewer leaks and odors: Thanks to its secure seal.
• Longer wear time: Up to 12 hours of protection.
• Cost-effective: One-time purchase vs. monthly pad expenses.
• Eco-friendly: Replaces hundreds of disposable products.
• Comfortable once inserted properly; you won’t even feel it.

How to Choose the Right Menstrual Cup Size

One of the biggest concerns first-time users have is sizing, and menstrual cups come in various sizes. Depending on the brand you choose, you could have a lot of overwhelming options. For Ivy Cup, our menstrual cup comes in two sizes, a small Model A and a big Model B. We recommend taking our cup sizing quiz, but here’s a simple guide:

Small (Model A) → Light/moderate flow, low cervix, teens

Large (Model B) → Heavy flow, post-childbirth, high cervix

👉 Tip: If you’re unsure, go for our duo pack, which includes both sizes so you can try what fits best.

Things to Consider Before Buying Your First Menstrual Cup

1. Your Flow Level:
Heavy or light periods? Heavier flow may need a larger cup or more frequent emptying. With the Ivy Cup, this would be our Model B cup, which is amazingly suitable for girlies with heavier menstrual flow. You can grab your own cup here.

2. Your Cervix Height:
Knowing your cervix height can help you choose a cup that fits comfortably and doesn’t cause leaks.

How to Check Your Cervix Height:

• Wash your hands and insert a clean finger into your vagina.
• Gently feel for a soft, round bump. That’s your cervix.
• If you feel it almost immediately, you likely have a low cervix.
• If it takes more depth or you can’t feel it at all, you likely have a high cervix.
• Somewhere in between? You have a medium cervix.

👉 Low cervix = shorter cup
👉 High cervix = longer cup or longer stem

Knowing this before buying will help you avoid discomfort or leaks.

3. Your Comfort With Insertion:
If you’re new to insertable period products (e.g., tampons), give yourself time. Cups may take a few tries to get used to. Practice different folds (like the triangle fold or punch-down) and slowly learn how to insert a menstrual cup. Many users get the hang of it by their 2nd or 3rd cycle.

4. Material Safety:
Not all cups are made equal. Only buy medical-grade silicone cups that are:

• BPA-free
• Phthalate-free
• FDA-approved (or made to high safety standards)

Ivy Cup is made with 100% medical-grade silicone, designed with the Nigerian woman in mind; affordable, comfortable, and safe.

5. Where You’ll Use It:
Are you mostly at home? Or constantly on the move? If you’re away from home often, consider:

• Getting a portable cleaner for your cup, like our Ivy Sterilizer, is foldable, compact, and perfect for on-the-go cup life. Grab yours here.
• Having wipes or a backup cup ready just in case.

Frequently Asked Menstrual Cup Questions

Q: Will it hurt?
Nope. When inserted properly, you won’t feel a thing.

Q: Can it get lost inside me?
Not at all. Your cervix prevents that.

Q: Is it safe for virgins?
Yes, menstrual cups are safe for virgins. Just go slow and pick a small size to start with.

Q: How long will it last?
Most cups, including Ivy Cup, last up to 5 years with proper care.

Where to Buy a Menstrual Cup in Nigeria

You can buy Ivy Cup:

• Online via our official website
• At select pharmacies and stores in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
• On campus at Obafemi Awolowo Campus pharmacy

Look for authentic, Nigerian menstrual cup brands that understand your unique needs, aka Ivy Cup, of course!

Final Thoughts — Is a Menstrual Cup Right for You?

Trying something new always feels a little scary, but thousands of women say switching to a menstrual cup was one of the best decisions they made for their period health, budget, and the planet.

Ready to try one for yourself?

Start with the Ivy Cup Starter Kit: menstrual cup, all the essential cup accessories, easy-to-follow guides, and all the support you need to succeed from Day 1.