Menstrual cup myths and facts: debunking common misconceptions

Are you nervous about using a menstrual cup for the first time? That’s totally normal. This little object can be surprising and raise questions. After decades of using tampons and pads, it’s understandable to feel unsure about this flexible, brightly colored cup.

This small medical-grade silicone reservoir, shaped like an upside-down bell, is extremely well thought out and well designed.

The menstrual cup is, above all, a true revolution for our periods: a durable, washable, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly hygienic protection that any woman can use.
Still unsure? Heard a few misconceptions but haven’t made up your mind? Feeling a bit lost? Want to know more?

To learn more, check out our article: Common Myths About Periods: Debunking Misconceptions. Not sure if you’re ready to make the switch? Before you buy, read our article, Menstrual Cups: Pros and Cons.

Let’s break down the myths and misconceptions about menstrual cups together. There are plenty! Let’s talk openly about periods, cups, cleaning, virginity, adolescence, and vaginas. Today, Louloucup is here to clear up the facts about menstrual cups for you.

Myth #1: Menstrual cups are too small to collect your period flow

"The menstrual cup fills up too quickly."

"My periods are so heavy, there’s no way I can keep a menstrual cup in for hours without worrying about leaks!"

The idea that you’re losing a huge amount of blood is actually a misconception that many women have. A woman with very heavy periods might lose up to 80 ml of blood over the course of her entire period. That 80 ml is spread out over several days. A cup can hold 25 ml of blood. Over four hours of use on a heavy flow day, the cup will be at most half full.

Of course, the amount of blood varies from one woman to another, and even from one cycle to the next. Some women naturally have heavier periods than others. In any case, the menstrual cup holds all menstrual flows— even the heaviest—safely and effectively.

Myth #2: Menstrual cups can’t be used by virgins

Internal hygienic protection and virginity is a frequently discussed topic. Since it is inserted at the vaginal opening (it’s intravaginal), some believe menstrual cups aren’t suitable for young virgins. That’s false. The so-called hymen is subject to a lot of myths and misinformation. It’s not really an impenetrable membrane that tears during first intercourse, but rather a fold of tissue, sometimes with holes. Yes, every woman’s hymen is different. The hymen is more like an elastic donut. So, menstrual cups can absolutely be used by young virgins. It’s more a matter of personal comfort and ease. It’s unique to each person.

Myth #3: Menstrual cups are more dangerous than other period products

False! A menstrual cup is no more dangerous than a tampon or any other hygiene product.
However, you must follow the instructions: wash your hands, sterilize your cup before inserting it, and don’t keep it in for more than six hours. An instruction manual is always provided—make sure to read it and don’t hesitate to review it regularly. Also check out the Louloucup Menstrual Cup User Manual.

So, the menstrual cup, which is an internal hygiene product, is no more likely to cause toxic shock syndrome than a tampon.

For more information on this topic, you can check out our articles:

•  Menstrual cup risks
• Menstrual cup and toxic shock syndrome: what’s the real risk?
• What should you know about toxic shock syndrome?

Myth #4: Menstrual cups aren’t suitable for teens

Again, that’s a total myth. On the contrary, the cup can be especially convenient for teenagers. The menstrual cup is a completely invisible period protection, which is especially reassuring for teens. It’s also super practical for swimming or sports. However, using a cup does require some comfort with your body and your period. You also need to know your flow and how heavy it is. Most importantly: brands offer smaller, softer models for easier insertion. These menstrual cups are perfectly suited to younger users’ anatomy.

Learn more:
Menstrual Cups vs. Tampons: Making the Right Choice for Your Health and the Environment as a Teen

Myth #5: The suction effect—can a menstrual cup really suck everything up?

Once in place, the menstrual cup unfolds against the strong walls of the vagina. The cup stays put with no risk of leaks. It forms a seal thanks to air pressure. Tiny, almost invisible holes allow air to escape gradually as the cup fills.

When removing, you need to break the seal by pinching the cup or sliding a finger along the side to release the suction. This term may have worried some users. There are myths about suction, organ descent, or prolapse! But nothing could be further from the truth. As with any protection, just follow the usage instructions carefully.

To learn more:
Help, my menstrual cup is full. What do I do?

Choosing the right menstrual cup is important. We highly recommend checking out a comparison of the best menstrual cups. 


At Louloucup, we offer two menstrual cup models: a soft Turquoise cup and a classic Rose cup. Each of these two models is available in two sizes: small and medium.
You can create a discounted pack: cup + period underwear so you’re ready for your next period! With Louloucup, shipping is always free in France and Europe.