- What is The DivaCup?
- What size should I choose?
- Can The DivaCup be used for heavy flow?
- Does it leak?
- Can you feel The DivaCup when it's inside?
- Can the DivaCup get stuck or lost inside me?
- Can young girls and virgins use The DivaCup?
- Can I wear The DivaCup at night?
- Does The DivaCup work for an active lifestyle?
- Can I wear The DivaCup during intercourse?
- Can I use the Diva Cup if I have an IUD?
- Do I need to take The DivaCup out before using the bathroom?
- What do I do in a public restroom?
- When should I replace The DivaCup?
- How do I insert The DivaCup?
- How do I remove The DivaCup?
- How do I clean The DivaCup?
- Is The DivaCup sanitary?
- What do I do if The DivaCup starts to discolor?
- How often can I boil The DivaCup?
- How much money will I save?
- What are the environmental benefits?
- How is The DivaCup different from tampons?
- How is The DivaCup different from other menstrual cups?
- Does The DivaCup have to adhere to governmental regulations and standards?
- Is silicone a safe material?
- Can I get Toxic Shock Syndrome from leaving The DivaCup in for too long?
What is The DivaCup?
The DivaCup is a small, internally worn silicone cup that collects, rather than absorbs, your menstrual flow. It is folded and 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.
What size should I choose?
The DivaCup is available in two models:
Size 1: For women under 30 years old who have never delivered vaginally or by ceasarean section.
Size 2: For women over 30 years old and/or for women who have delivered vaginally or by c-section.
The Size 1 cup is 1 11/16" (4.3 cm) in diameter and the Size 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 (Size 1 is 1/8" (0.3 cm) smaller), but it is important to use the recommended sizing to prevent leakage. We recommend Size 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 Size 2 if you are over 30, even if you have not had childbirth.
Can The DivaCup be used for heavy flow?
Yes. The DivaCup holds one full ounce, which is about twice as much as many high absorbency tampons. Women with heavy flows simply need to empty their cup more often than those with lighter flow. The convenient ounces and milliliters measurement feature allows women to actually keep track of flow and accurately report flow details to their health professional.
Does it leak?
Not if 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 may overflow. Use Lunapads Pantyliners or Lunapanties with your DivaCup as backup on heavy days or for potential leaks.
Can you feel The DivaCup when it's inside?
If you can “feel” the cup, it has probably 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 will not dry out the vagina, making it much more comfortable.
Can The DivaCup become stuck? If it happens, what do I do?
It is highly unlikely that The DivaCup will become “stuck”, because the vagina is only approximately 4 or 5 inches long. If The DivaCup moves up and becomes harder to reach, simply push down (or bear down) with your stomach muscles (similar to having a bowel movement). Reach inside the vagina and pull on the stem until you can reach the base of the cup. Squeeze the base.
Make sure that you are relaxed while doing this so that your vaginal muscles do not become tense. Once you have squeezed the base to release the air, pull the cup out at a sideways angle. This allows more air to enter the vagina, and it will then be able to be removed easily. If you still cannot reach The DivaCup, squat on the floor. This will automatically lower the cup because this position shortens the vagina.
The important thing to remember is not to panic as this will make the vaginal muscles very tense and can cause the cup to be harder to remove. If the stem feels “slippery”, wait a bit, relax, and try again by bearing down on the muscles. This will push the cup down to the lower part of the vagina, then you will be able to pinch the base and remove.
By following the instructions: rotating 360 degrees to make sure it has fully opened and creating the seal, and by wearing it low in the canal (not pushing it up high like a tampon), the cup should be very easy to remove.
Can young girls and virgins use The DivaCup?
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.
It is ideal for young women 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. Please read and understand all of the FAQs; and consult with your physician and parent or guardian. This will help you make an informed decision!
Can I wear The DivaCup at night?
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.
Does The DivaCup work for an active lifestyle?
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.
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.
Can I use the Diva Cup if I have an IUD?
Please use caution when using any internal feminine hygiene product with an IUD as there is a rare possibility of dislodging it. Many of our customers use The DivaCup and an IUD simultaneously and have not reported any problems, but we recommend that you become familiar with your particular IUD risks (such as the body expelling the IUD, etc.).
As with any gynecological concerns, please consult your physician prior to using a menstrual cup.
Do I need to take The DivaCup out before using the bathroom?
No. You can comfortably keep the Diva Cup in when you urinate or have a bowel movement just as you can a tampon.
What do I do in a public restroom?
Most women find that they do not have to remove The DivaCup more often than every 12 hours, and that taking it out in a public restroom does not occur very often. However, for women with heavier flows, or on the occasion you need to empty it in a public restroom, simply remove the cup, empty the contents and use a dry or damp tissue to clean the cup and reinsert. Make sure your hands are clean before going into the stall. Wash your DivaCup well with warm, soapy water at the next convenient time.
When should I replace The DivaCup?
Depending on the factors unique to each woman like vaginal pH, how well and often the cup is cleaned, what cleansing agents are used, etc. we recommend that you may want to replace it once a year. Silicone is very durable. We recommend that you inspect your cup regularly for signs or deterioration (such as a sticky or powdery film, severe discoloration or odor, etc.) or if you experience irritation. Ultimately, it is up to the consumer to decide when she feels it is necessary to replace the cup.
How do I insert The DivaCup?
On your first trial with The DivaCup, make sure you are relaxed and have time to read the User Guide thoroughly beforehand. Insertion and removal will only take a few seconds once you master the technique. If you have any questions or issues regarding insertion or removal, please contact Diva Inc. via email or phone at 1-866-444-DIVA or info@divacup.com.
Step 1: Fold
Prior to insertion, thoroughly wash your hands (15 - 20 seconds) and The DivaCup with warm water using The DivaWash or a mild, unscented soap. Hold the cup with the stem pointing down.
- Fold Option 1 (Fig.1) Press the sides of the cup together and then fold it in half again forming a tight “U” shape; OR
- Fold Option 2 (Fig. 2) Place a finger on the top rim of the cup and press it down into the center of the inside base to form a triangle. This makes the top rim much smaller to insert.
Step 2: Hold
With one hand, hold the folded sides firmly together with your thumb on one side and your 4 fingers on the other side just below the top rim of the cup.
Step 3: Insert
Take a comfortable position: either standing, sitting on the toilet, or squatting.
Relax your vaginal muscles (pelvic floor muscles). Gently separate your labia with your opposite, free hand. Insert The DivaCup into the vagina aiming it horizontally towards your tailbone (located at the base of your spine). The DivaCup will open before it is completely inserted; however, continue to insert towards the tailbone. Continue to insert The DivaCup until the stem is even with the vaginal opening and does not protrude. DO NOT push the tip of the stem further than ½ inch (1.27 cm) into the vagina. Inserting The DivaCup too high may cause leaks, and may also make removal more difficult.
Step 4: IMPORTANT
Finally, in order to create the seal with the vaginal muscle (pelvic floor muscle), grip the base of the cup (not the stem) and turn the cup one full rotation (360 degrees) in either direction or insert the cup about half way, turn the cup one full rotation and then push it in the rest of the way. It must rotate easily as this ensures that it is fully open and that it is positioned horizontally towards your tailbone. You can also make sure the cup is completely open by inserting a finger into your vagina and gently pressing on one side of the vaginal wall to create space for the cup to fully open. Failure to create a seal can result in leaks, the cup traveling too high, and making removal difficult.
Note: If the cup will not rotate easily, will not fully open, feels uncomfortable, or pinches when you are sitting, it is positioned incorrectly. Please review these instructions again. If the stem irritates the vaginal opening once it is positioned correctly, you may remove the cup and trim the stem slightly. Only trim the stem after removal. Cut the stem so the remaining stem is no shorter than one-quarter (1/4) inch (0.6 cm). Cutting the stem completely will make removal difficult.
How do I remove The DivaCup?
Thoroughly wash your hands (15 - 20 seconds) with warm water and The DivaWash or a mild, unscented soap. In a comfortable position (either standing, sitting on the toilet, or squatting) bear down with your abdominal/pelvic muscles (as if you are having a bowel movement). Insert your thumb and index finger into your vagina until you can reach the stem.
Gently pull the stem horizontally until you can firmly pinch the base of the cup. Squeeze the cup gently, and angle it slightly sideways while moving it from side to side to release the seal as you remove it.
When it is completely removed, hold the cup upright so that the contents remain inside the cup. Simply empty the contents into the toilet. Wash The DivaCup thoroughly, as directed below.
With a bit of practice as per instructions above, it should only take a few seconds to insert or remove The DivaCup.
To ensure through cleaning, The DivaCup may be boiled at the end of your cycle. Rinse, air-dry and store in a cool, dry place.
Please Note: Do not insert The DivaCup while lying down. If The DivaCup is uncomfortable or leaking, then it is not positioned properly. In order to get the best results it is very important to insert it correctly.
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. We have formulated it as a pH balanced wash that is best for the cup and you, because it 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 may be boiled by submerging in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for five to ten (5-10) 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/fragranced soap, castile/peppermint castile soap or any other oil based soap, rubbing alcohol, antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer, pre-moistened wipes, hydrogen peroxide, dishwashing soap, bleach or harsh chemicals as some have been known to damage or compromise the silicone (such as a sticky or powdery film, etc.) and may need to be replaced to avoid irritations, burning, etc. If you have cleaned your DivaCup with any of the non-recommended cleansers, replace the cup if there are any signs of deterioration or you experience irritation.
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 need extra cleaning, we suggest that you fill the cup with warm water. Cover the top with your palm, sealing it up. Turn it upside down (still sealed by your palm) and then, apply pressure to the sides of The DivaCup pushing the water out through the sides. This removes residue left in the holes. To clean the stem and/or holes, you can also 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 use a toothpick (discarding after use), as well. We do not suggest a pin as it may cause damage to the cup.
Is The DivaCup sanitary?
Yes. 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 five to ten (5 -10) minutes at the end of each cycle.
What can I do if The DivaCup starts to discolor?
Menstrual cups can sometimes discolor from the flow. If The DivaCup starts to discolor, it can be submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for five to ten (5-10) minutes. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry.
How often can I boil The DivaCup?
How much money will I save?
Calculate your own personal care savings: 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.
What are the environmental benefits?
Worldwide, women use billions of pads and tampons annually, 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.
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
- Waste (no more tampons in the garbage)
- 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 (you can safely leave your DivaCup in for up to 12 hours), and no more last-minute trips to the drugstore! The DivaCup is a quality, healthfcare 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.
How is The DivaCup different from other menstrual cups?
The DivaCup is made from soft, healthcare grade silicone. Some other menstrual cups are made from natural latex rubber (gum rubber), which contains a protein called nitrosamine. Women who have allergies or sensitivities to any form of latex should not use menstrual cups which are made from latex rubber.
The DivaCup also features extra grip ridges for easier removal. The stem of The DivaCup is shorter than other cups to allow for added comfort and a more secure fit with less leakage. Other patent-pending features make The DivaCup reliable, comfortable and easy-to-use.
The DivaCup is regulated by the FDA and is the only menstrual cup that holds a valid Health Canada license.
The DivaCup’s 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.
The DivaCup is designed to be worn lower than other menstrual cups. Therefore, the stem has been designed shorter and the rounded edge on the stem is designed for more comfort. We use the highest quality silicone (there are many grades) to assure comfort and durability.
Does The DivaCup have to adhere to governmental regulations and standards?
The manufacturers of The DivaCup hold Medical Device Licenses with both the FDA and Health Canada. 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.
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.
Can I get Toxic Shock Syndrome from leaving The DivaCup in for too long?
Please consult your physician prior to using a menstrual cup if you have any gynecological/medical concerns or conditions. Use pursuant to directions. If you experience any discomfort, discontinue use and contact your physician.
