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The DivaCup FAQ

At Lunapads, we have been using and selling reusable menstrual cups for close to a decade, and have talked to literally hundreds of women about their experiences using them. The DivaCup is a product that we believe in and know to be a fantastic tampon alternative. You'll find our answers to the most frequently asked questions about The DivaCup below. If your question isn't answered here, please send an email to info@lunapads.com.





Taking your period on the road with
Wysi Wipes and The DivaCup.

What is The DivaCup?

The DivaCup is a small, internally-worn silicone cup that collects, rather than absorbs, your menstrual flow. It is inserted in the vagina and sits at the lower base of the vaginal canal. It is worn internally, but because it is soft and smooth, it cannot be felt nor will it leak when inserted properly.

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How will The DivaCup save me money?

Calculate your own personal care savings below.
  1. Estimate your monthly spending in disposable feminine hygiene products.
  2. Multiply by 12 months.
  3. Subtract the cost of The DivaCup
  4. This total is what you will save each year by using The DivaCup.

How does using The DivaCup help the environment?

Worldwide, women use about 12 billion pads and tampons a year, filling landfill space, and letting the harmful bleaches and dioxins to absorb into the soil. Disposable pads and tampons are also the number 1 product that gets washed up on beaches. Using The DivaCup reduces your impact on the globe.

What's the difference between The DivaCup and other menstrual cups?

  • The DivaCup is made from 100% healthcare grade silicone. Some other menstrual cups are made from natural latex rubber (gum rubber), which contains a protein called nitrosomine. Women who have allergies or sensitivities to any form of latex should not use menstrual cups which are made from latex rubber. The DivaCup is a hypoallergenic alternative to these menstrual cups.
  • The DivaCup is designed to be worn lower in the vagina than other menstrual cups. Therefore, the stem of The DivaCup is shorter, and with a rounded edge, to allow for added comfort and a more secure fit with less leakage.  The DivaCup also features extra grip ridges for easier removal.
  • The DivaCup is regulated by the FDA and is the only menstrual cup that holds a valid Health Canada license. Its patent-pending design has been expertly engineered within the framework of FDA and Health Canada guidelines and is the only menstrual cup that is ISO certified.


"I recently ordered a silicone DivaCup to replace my rubber Keeper of 7 years. I love the pads and will continue to use them even though I can go back to my beloved cup!  The silicone cup is wonderful, just the right size and even more comfortable than the rubber versions I have been using for 12 years!  I will continue to shop Lunapads.com for all my cycle needs and enjoy this monthly renewal process even more than ever!" - Quinn B. 

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How is The DivaCup different from tampons?

The DivaCup offers all the convenience of tampons (no bulk or chafing, making it great for sports) without the:

  • Expense (find out exactly how much you’ll save here)
  • Waste (no more tampons in the garbage) or
  • Dryness (who hasn’t felt a bit uncomfortable taking out a tampon towards the end of their cycle?)

Plus, you don’t need to change it as often (safely leave your DivaCup in for up to 12 hours), and no more last-minute trips to the drugstore! 

The DivaCup is a quality, healthcare grade silicone menstrual cup that contains no dyes or chemicals. It is latex-free, plastic-free and BPA-free. Tampons are typically manufactured from rayon, and may also contain absorbency-enhancing gels, perfumes, bleaching agents and other chemicals.

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How do I use The DivaCup?

On your first trial with The DivaCup, make sure you are relaxed and have time to read the User Guide thoroughly.
Insertion and removal should only take a few seconds once you master the technique.

Before inserting: Wash your hands well with warm water and soap. Rinse well.

While sitting or standing in a comfortable position, insert your DivaCup following these 3 steps.  

Step 1: Fold - Moisten the rim of The DivaCup with water. Press the sides of the cup together and then fold it in half again. This should make a U shape.

 
Step 2: Hold - Hold the folded sides firmly between your thumb and forefinger, with the pinched open end at the tip of your fingers and the pull tab in the palm of your hand.

 
Step 3: Insert - With the vaginal muscles relaxed, gently separate the labia with your free hand and then push the curved edge of the folded DivaCup into the vaginal opening. You might have to wiggle it around a little, moving your fingers down toward the base as it goes deeper inside. Once it's as far in as you can get it, release your pinch and rotate it a half-turn.

 

Step 4:  To remove The DivaCup, thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap. Pull gently on the stem until you can reach the base of the cup. Pinch the base of the cup to release the seal, bear down, and slowly remove the cup. Be sure that the seal is broken before you pull it out or removal may be uncomfortable.  Simply empty the contents in the toilet, wash it well with warm, soapy water, and reinsert. It's that easy!

Please note: If The DivaCup feels uncomfortable, or is leaking, it is probably not positioned properly. In order to get the best results it is very important to insert it correctly.

See our photographic How-To Guide for further information.

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Is the DivaCup sanitary?

Absolutely. The DivaCup is made from top quality, healthcare grade silicone, which is 100% latex-free, plastic-free, BPA-free and odorless. It is non-absorbent and does not disrupt one’s natural vaginal environment.

The vagina is self-cleansing and continually producing fluid that “flushes” the vagina. Tampons (rayon and cotton) absorb this protective fluid and can disrupt the normal acidic vaginal environment.

Remember to wash and rinse your hands before inserting and removing your DivaCup. Wash your DivaCup well with The DivaWash or a low or balanced pH, unscented soap and warm water at least twice a day. The best cleaning agent to use is The DivaWash. We have formulated it to be pH balanced at 5.5, which is best for the cup and you, as it does not leave residue. Also, it should be boiled for 20 minutes at the end of each cycle.
 

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How long will The DivaCup last?

Due to government standards and the personal, hygienic nature of the product, we recommend a menstrual cup should be replaced once a year.  Ultimately, it is still up to the consumer to decide when she feels it is necessary to replace the cup. Source: www.divacup.com

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Is silicone a safe material?

Some women are concerned that silicone is dangerous because of its association with breast implants. However, there is a major difference between the silicone in breast implants, and the silicone used in The DivaCup. The older breast implants that caused all the problems were made from a sac filled with silicone gel. In the past, problems occurred when the sacs were rupturing or improperly sealed valves were allowing the silicone gel to leak into the body.

The DivaCup is made of a high quality healthcare grade silicone that starts as a liquid, and then the molecules are bound together (or vulcanized) with very high heat to form a solid, stable piece of silicone (similar to the feel of soft rubber). The DivaCup is cured after production in an oven at a very high temperature to make sure all the molecules are bound and chain linked together. The material has gone through substantial testing to make sure none of the molecules will break away from the product. Since the end product is a solid rubber-like material, there is no possible way for anything to leak into the body.

The silicone used in The DivaCup – which is 100% plastic-free, BPA-free, latex-free and odorless – is the same material and grade approved for healthcare applications. The DivaCup holds current Medical Device Licenses with both the FDA and Health Canada, and Diva International Inc. is ISO 13485 certified to meet medical device requirements of Health Canada. This certification ensures that The DivaCup is manufactured, packaged, and sold following specific procedures that assure the highest quality, safety and effectiveness of the product

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How do I clean The DivaCup?

The DivaCup should always be thoroughly cleaned. Washing the cup in mild soap and warm water provides sufficient cleansing. The best cleaning agent to use is the DivaWash, a pH balanced wash that does not leave residue. Remember to wash your hands before inserting and removing your DivaCup.

The DivaCup’s top quality, healthcare grade silicone can tolerate high temperatures. At the end of each cycle The DivaCup should be washed and rinsed as specified and then submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for twenty (20) minutes. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry. Do not use vinegar, tea tree oil, scented soap, antibacterial soap, hydrogen peroxide, bleach or harsh chemicals as these may damage the silicone and ruin the cup. 
 
We do not recommend cleaning The DivaCup in the dishwasher because chemicals, detergents and residue from previous dishwashing could harm the cup.

After use and proper cleaning, the cup must be placed in a storage that allows for air flow. The DivaCup comes with its own drawstring cotton pouch.

The four holes under the rim are of vital importance. They create the seal that secures the cup in place. If the holes or stem need extra cleaning, we suggest that you soak the cup in warm water for a few minutes then use a soft toothbrush (specifically designated only for the cup) for this. You can also use a toothpick. We do not suggest a pin as it may cause damage to the cup.

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What can I use to clean The DivaCup?

The DivaCup should always be thoroughly cleaned. Washing the cup in mild soap and warm water provides sufficient cleansing. The best cleaning agent to use is The DivaWash. It has been formulated for use with The DivaCup, is pH balanced, and does not leave a residue. Remember to wash your hands before inserting and removing your DivaCup.

The DivaCup’s top quality, healthcare grade silicone can tolerate very high temperatures. At the end of each cycle The DivaCup should be washed and rinsed as specified and then submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for twenty (20) minutes. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry. Do not use vinegar, tea tree oil, scented soap, antibacterial soap, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, rubbing alcohol or harsh chemicals as these may damage the silicone and ruin the cup. 
 
We do not recommend cleaning The DivaCup in the dishwasher because chemicals, detergents and residue from previous dishwashing could harm the cup.

After use and proper cleaning, the cup must be placed in a storage that allows for air flow. The DivaCup comes with its own drawstring cotton pouch.

The four holes under the rim are of vital importance. They create the seal that secures the cup in place. If the holes or stem need extra cleaning, we suggest that you soak the cup in warm water for a few minutes then use a soft toothbrush (specifically designated only for the cup) for this. You can also use a toothpick (discarding after use). We do not suggest a pin as it may cause damage to the cup.

Approved Cleansers:

  • The DivaWash
  • Boiling Water
  • Mild Soap
Do NOT Use:
  • Bleach, Vinegar
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Fragranced Soap
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Castile Soap
  • Tea Tree Oil
  • Antibacterial Soap
  • Dishwashing Soap

How often do I need to clean/empty The DivaCup?

This varies from person to person and will depend largely on how heavy your flow is.

The DivaCup holds one ounce (30 ml). By monitoring the fullness of the cup over a couple of periods, you will quickly learn how often to empty it according to your specific needs. Most women find that the cup is not even half full after 12 hours. For those with heavier flows, the cup is simply emptied more often.

The DivaCup is emptied, washed and reinserted 2-3 times per 24 hour day. It can be worn up to 12 hours at a time, but it must be emptied, washed and reinserted at least 2 times a day (twice in a 24 hour period). It can be worn up to 12 hours overnight. Most women need only to empty it in the morning and again in the evening.

Clean your DivaCup thoroughly at the end of each cycle so that it's fresh and ready for next month.

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What if I have to empty it when I'm in a public washroom?

Once you try The DivaCup, you'll probably find that you don't need to empty it as frequently as you might think. Most women only have to empty it a couple of times a day, and so rarely need to do so in a public washroom. If you do need to empty it in a public washroom, simply remove it, empty its contents into the toilet, wipe the rim with a piece of toilet paper (some women bring a spray bottle and/or moistened paper towel into the stall with them for this purpose) and reinsert.

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Does The DivaCup leak?

 Not usually, but this depends on how heavy your flow is and whether you’ve established a proper seal upon insertion.  When inserting the DivaCup, remember the twist to get a proper seal.  Run your finger along the top of the cup to check for folds and creases.  If you feel one, remove and reinsert till you can tell the cup is fully opened and sealed against your vaginal walls.

Keep in mind also that if you are bleeding when you insert the cup, you will have some residual blood in your vagina not caught in the cup.  If you have particularly heavy flow, the cup will overflow.  Use Lunapads Pantyliners or Lunapanties with your DivaCup as backup on heavy days or for potential leaks.

"I ordered the DivaCup and Pantyliners last month.  Yesterday was the first day I used the DivaCup and all I can say is Wow.  My sister in law and I were going to the Northwest Women's show in Seattle.  And I was a little nervous having never used the products before.  All I can say is we walked for hours and there was no leaking.  And there was no leaking overnight!!  This is a first in YEARS!  I can sleep through the night. I think this product is wonderful." - Cindy R. 

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Can you feel The DivaCup when it's inside?

If you can “feel” the cup, it has not been inserted properly. Because The DivaCup is made of soft silicone that actually softens with body heat, you really should not feel the cup at all. The DivaCup is totally different than the sensation of tampons. The DivaCup does not dry out the vagina, making it much more comfortable.

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The stem is poking out and bothering me.  Do I need to trim the stem?

If the stem irritates the vaginal opening once it is positioned correctly, you may remove the cup and trim the stem slightly. Please use a sharp embroidery or fingernail scissor to round the hard edge to prevent further irritation.

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Can I sleep while wearing The DivaCup?

Absolutely. The DivaCup can be worn for up to 12 hours before emptying, washing and reinserting for use for another 12 hours. Perfect for overnight use.

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I'm really active. Can I still use The DivaCup?

As a menstrual cup, the DivaCup is ideal for active women. Use it running, swimming, dancing, working out, climbing, hiking… any activity you can think of (well, one exception – see below)! It's great for trips because you don't have to pack pads or tampons, and you'll never run out of it. And there's no waste to deal with when you're out in the woods on a camping trip.

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Can I wear The DivaCup during intercourse?

No, The DivaCup is bell-shaped and worn low near the vaginal opening, making intercourse uncomfortable. The DivaCup is not a birth control device and should not be used for this purpose. The DivaCup is regulated by the FDA and Health Canada solely for use only as feminine hygiene protection.

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Which size should I get?

The DivaCup is available in two models:
 
Model 1: For women under 30 years old who have never delivered vaginally or by ceasarean section.
Model 2: For women over 30 years old and/or for women who have delivered vaginally or by c-section.

The Model 1 cup is 1 11/16" (4.3 cm) in diameter and the Model 2 cup is 1 13/16" (4.6 cm) in diameter. Both cups are approximately 2 1/4" (5.7 cm) in length in the body of the cup, with another 3/8" (1 cm) stem (2 5/8" total length). The stem may be trimmed to adjust for comfort.

There is a small difference between the two sizes (Model 1 is 1/8" (0.3 cm) smaller), but it is important to use the recommended sizing to prevent leakage.

We recommend Model 2 if you are 30 or over 30 years old, because as we age, our hips naturally widen and the vaginal muscles lose elasticity. Because the vaginal muscles hold The DivaCup in place, it is important to use Model 2 if you are over 30, even if you have not had childbirth.

  

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Can the DivaCup get "lost" inside me?

No. the DivaCup sits low near the vaginal opening. Sometimes it travels a bit deeper inside, but never out of reach. If you find it has moved up when you go to remove it, bear down with your pelvic/abdominal muscles to push the DivaCup downward. You can also pull the DivaCup down a bit by the stem before pinching it to release the seal.

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Can young girls and virgins use The DivaCup?

Yes. But if you have strong feelings about keeping your hymen intact, you might wait until you've had intercourse.  Using the DivaCup will not “take” your virginity.

Physically, The DivaCup is suitable for women of all ages as the vagina is made up of very flexible tissue and muscles. Women's bodies are designed this way to be able to stretch to deliver a baby. The tissue returns back to its normal size after expansion with intercourse or childbirth. It is the muscles that usually need to be strengthened after childbirth.

Many of our customers are as young as 11 or 12 years old. It is ideal for young girls who are very active (such as swimmers or gymnasts) who are looking for a more reliable method other than tampons or pads. For those concerned about the hymen, please consult your physician before use of any internal feminine hygiene protection. As for all other gynecological concerns, we suggest you consult your physician.

Everyone is unique and there are many variables. Many young women use The DivaCup. Please read and understand all of the FAQs. This will help you make an informed decision!

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I have a latex allergy. Can I use The DivaCup?

Absolutely. The DivaCup is made of Health Care grade silicone, which is latex-free.

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Can I use the Diva Cup if I have an IUD?

The DivaCup is not suggested for use with an Intrauterine Device (IUD). It is possible for the IUD to become dislodged, displaced or removed when the menstrual cup is removed by inadvertently pulling on the IUD string. As with all gynecological concerns, please consult with your physician.

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Can I get Toxic Shock Syndrome from leaving The DivaCup in for too long?

An increased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is not associated with the use of menstrual cups.  Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is considered a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by toxin-producing strains of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. TSS has been linked to high absorbency and prolonged use of tampons. There are now regulations in labeling for tampon absorbency to decrease the risk of TSS.

Symptoms of TSS often mimic the flu and can include sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, or a rash that looks like a sunburn during your period or a few days after.

We mention TSS here so that women will be aware of this serious condition. We suggest that you consult your physician concerning TSS and the use of a menstrual cup. If you have had TSS, do not use a menstrual cup. As with any gynecological concern, please consult your physician.

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Do I need to take The DivaCup out when I urinate or have a bowel movement?

No. You can comfortably keep the Diva Cup in when you urinate or have a bowel movement just as you can a tampon.

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Does The DivaCup have to adhere to governmental regulations and standards?

The manufacturer's of The DivaCup hold Medical Device Licenses with both the FDA and Health Canada. Under the regulations, and because it is a personal hygiene product, it is suggested that menstrual cups should be replaced once a year. The silicone used in The DivaCup – which is 100% plastic-free, BPA-free, latex-free and odorless – is the same material and grade approved for healthcare applications.

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