The menstrual cups the complete guide
At Loulou, we offer healthy and eco-friendly alternatives to tampons and other disposable period products. In this guide, we answer all your questions about how to use and what’s inside our cup or menstrual cup. Tips, sizes, care, tests, reviews, purchase, price – here is our complete guide to the cup for peaceful periods, with no leaks and no stress!
The menstrual cup
What is a menstrual cup, cup or “cup”?
The menstrual cup, also called a period cup or simply a “cup,” is a type of feminine hygiene protection used during menstruation.
It usually has the shape of a funnel with rounded edges and often ends in a stem or ring to make removal easier.
The menstrual cup is placed inside the vagina, just below the cervix, to collect menstrual blood. It’s an internal device and, once in place, the menstrual cup is completely invisible.
It can be worn for up to 8 hours before being emptied, rinsed and reinserted.
The menstrual cup is reusable for several years (between 5 and 10 years). It’s an excellent eco-friendly alternative to disposable hygiene products such as tampons and pads.
What is the menstrual cup made of?
The menstrual cup can be made from rubber, latex or silicone. For several years now, latex has been phased out of menstrual cup production because it can cause allergies, unlike medical-grade silicone.
At Louloucup, we chose medical-grade silicone to minimize the risk of allergies.
Our cup is made in France under strict hygiene conditions in a factory authorized to manufacture medical applications in compliance with ISO 13485 standards. ISO 13485 certification guarantees that every Louloucup is made with the utmost care and in line with the standards set by the International Organization for Standardization.
The composition of our menstrual cup is tightly controlled.
The silicone and dyes used comply with the strictest standards – FDA, USP Class VI, ISO 10993-6-10, REACH and RoHS. Louloucup contains no phthalates and no bisphenol A. It is latex-free and fragrance-free.
When you buy a Louloucup, you can be sure that:
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The composition of our menstrual cup is impeccable: it's healthy and free of toxic substances.
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Made in France, 100% medical-grade silicone and a clean composition are strong arguments against critics who link menstrual cups to Toxic Shock Syndrome. Read our article on the topic to learn more about TSS.
Louloucup, your best friend during your period
Louloucup adapts perfectly to your body’s movements thanks to its flexibility. Once in place, you forget it’s even there. You don’t feel it and you experience no discomfort. Painless, invisible and truly discreet, it ticks all the boxes! You’re completely free to move and feel great in all your clothes (even the tightest ones). Menstrual cups are perfect both at night and for swimming. Highly reliable throughout your entire cycle, they quickly become indispensable! But above all, our cup is a powerful ally in helping you get to know yourself as a woman. It provides information that’s sometimes hard to access about your menstrual flow and how your body works.
Why choose a menstrual cup for your period?
• For greater comfort! First of all, a menstrual cup is very comfortable. It is much more comfortable than a tampon because it does not dry out the vaginal flora. You can even use it on the last day of your cycle when your flow is very light.
• The cup is perfect for heavy flows and even for very heavy bleeding since it can hold up to 4 tampons’ worth
• The composition of our menstrual cup is completely transparent and safe. Unlike pads or tampons, Louloucup contains no carcinogenic agents or endocrine disruptors.
• It’s a very eco-friendly protection. The cup is the most environmentally friendly period product on the market. Our menstrual cup can be used for between 5 and 10 years.
• It’s an ultra-economical hygienic solution. The menstrual cup is the most economical option. Our cup costs €28.90 for 5 years, whereas buying tampons can cost around €90 per year.
The menstrual cup: a true intimate revolution
Who can use a menstrual cup?
Absolutely any woman who has her period. Our cup is suitable for all women, including teenagers. You can start using a menstrual cup whether you’re 13 or 50. Its flexible material adapts to every anatomy and will sit slightly differently for each person. Different sizes are available to suit all body types.
There are no hard and fast rules – you just need to feel comfortable with your body.
However, for anyone with an intrauterine device (IUD), whether hormonal or copper, it’s recommended to ask your gynecologist or midwife for advice. Even though the suction effect is minimal when removing the cup, every woman is different. Get your doctor’s approval before buying a menstrual cup. They may be able to trim the strings a little shorter as a precaution. For more information on this topic, check out our article “Are my IUD and my cup good friends?”
Which menstrual cup should I choose?
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
• Do you have a heavy or normal flow?
• Do you have sensitive anatomy?
• Are you a virgin? Are you comfortable with your body?
• Do you do any sports that strengthen your pelvic floor?
Which menstrual cup size should I choose?
There are two sizes and two levels of softness for Louloucup menstrual cups so they can adapt to every body shape.
Most women can wear either size S or M. In general, women with a heavy flow are advised to choose size M, and those with a normal or light flow to choose size S—but don’t rely on this criterion alone!
Size S allows for easy insertion into a vagina with a particularly toned, youthful pelvic floor.
Conversely, a size M cup (standard size) will suit less narrow, more relaxed vaginas with a less toned pelvic floor, for example after a vaginal birth.
It’s therefore important to consider your own situation and choose a cup that suits your anatomy, not just your flow. It’s better to choose a cup in the right size that’s easy to wear and insert than a poorly sized cup that will be painful. A correctly sized cup causes neither discomfort nor leaks.
There are two sizes and two levels of softness for Louloucup menstrual cups so they can adapt to every body shape.
Most women can wear either size S or M. In general, women with a heavy flow are advised to choose size M, and those with a normal or light flow to choose size S—but don’t rely on this criterion alone!
Size S allows for easy insertion into a vagina with a particularly toned, youthful pelvic floor.
Conversely, a size M cup (standard size) will suit less narrow, more relaxed vaginas with a less toned pelvic floor, for example after a vaginal birth.
It’s therefore important to consider your own situation and choose a cup that suits your anatomy, not just your flow. It’s better to choose a cup in the right size that’s easy to wear and insert than a poorly sized cup that will be painful. A correctly sized cup causes neither discomfort nor leaks.
| DIMENSIONS | Louloucup Small | Louloucup Medium |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 42mm | 46mm |
| Length | 45mm | 50mm |
| Stem | 25mm | 20mm |
| Volume | 25ml | 30ml |
Which level of softness should I choose?
At Louloucup, your comfort is our priority. Our cups are available in two levels of softness:
The blue menstrual cup, which is softer, is ideal for women with a more sensitive anatomy.
The pink menstrual cup is a little firmer. It’s perfect for women who exercise regularly.
At Louloucup, your comfort is our priority. Our cups are available in two levels of softness:
The blue menstrual cup, which is softer, is ideal for women with a more sensitive anatomy.
The pink menstrual cup is a little firmer. It’s perfect for women who exercise regularly.
How do you insert your menstrual cup?
STEP 1: GET COMFORTABLE
First of all, your hands must be clean before inserting or removing your cup.
Then, inserting your menstrual cup is very easy, and you have several options:
• On the toilet,
• In the bathtub or in the shower
• Lying on the bed
• Squatting
• With one leg raised on the toilet seat or the edge of the bathtub
It’s up to you to find the position that suits you best. The position you choose matters, because it should help you relax your muscles for easier insertion.
With time, inserting your cup becomes very easy and very quick. Just a simple, everyday gesture.
If you’re scared or anxious about inserting your cup, we recommend trying it in the shower with one leg raised on the edge of the bathtub. Take time to breathe and move gently.
In any case, you need to be comfortably settled and, above all, relaxed!
STEP 1: GET COMFORTABLE
First of all, your hands must be clean before inserting or removing your cup.
Then, inserting your menstrual cup is very easy, and you have several options:
• On the toilet,
• In the bathtub or in the shower
• Lying on the bed
• Squatting
• With one leg raised on the toilet seat or the edge of the bathtub
It’s up to you to find the position that suits you best. The position you choose matters, because it should help you relax your muscles for easier insertion.
With time, inserting your cup becomes very easy and very quick. Just a simple, everyday gesture.
If you’re scared or anxious about inserting your cup, we recommend trying it in the shower with one leg raised on the edge of the bathtub. Take time to breathe and move gently.
In any case, you need to be comfortably settled and, above all, relaxed!
Step 2: Fold your cup
Folding your menstrual cup is very simple:
Fold the menstrual cup using the folding method that works best for you. Here are a few examples of folds:
Try several folding techniques and choose the one that works best for you, the one that opens most easily inside you and best suits your anatomy. Insert the folded cup gently while holding the labia apart. Slowly insert the folded menstrual cup into the vaginal opening with small movements. Then release. The cup will open inside your vagina, forming a reservoir that prevents blood from flowing out.
Once inserted, you can gently rotate your cup one way and then the other, holding it at the base. This helps you make sure the cup has fully opened. If the cup is not positioned correctly, there may be a risk of leaks.
The first insertions can be a bit hit-and-miss, and that’s normal. You need time to get to know the cup and how it works. To check that your menstrual cup is correctly positioned, insert a finger to feel whether the base is fully open and not folded. If the base of the cup feels round, it’s in the right place.
At first, if inserting the menstrual cup makes you feel stressed or anxious, no pressure! Take all the time you need. Try, experiment, and if it doesn’t work out, you can always try again another time! Once it’s in place, you’ll see just how revolutionary this protection really is. Promise! :)
Lubricant and menstrual cup: Can I use lubricant to make inserting my menstrual cup easier?
Menstrual cup positioning
Made from a very soft, flexible material, the menstrual cup sits much lower than a tampon and is placed directly under the cervix. Once correctly positioned, there is no risk of leaks.
The menstrual cup can sit in different ways depending on your anatomy. It can be completely inside, or the stem may stick out slightly. It doesn’t matter. However, once inserted, the cup should absolutely not bother you. You shouldn’t be able to feel it.
If the menstrual cup is completely inside, the stem helps you bring it down more easily when it’s time to remove it. By gently pulling on it, you can reach the base of the cup, pinch it and then take it out.
If the menstrual cup sits very high, don’t panic, it can happen! Just push it down using your vaginal muscles to bring it back within reach.
High position of the cup
High cup position
Low cup position
You should never pull on the stem to remove your menstrual cup. If the stem sticks out and bothers you, you can trim it.
Obviously, always remove your menstrual cup before cutting the stem.
How do you remove a menstrual cup?
WASH your hands
Get into a comfortable position: squatting or with one leg up on the toilet seat. Relax. If you’re tense, removal will be more difficult.
LOCATE YOUR CUP. To do this, insert your thumb and index finger into your vagina to find the base of the menstrual cup. If you can’t reach it, gently pull on the stem until you can feel the base of the cup. Don’t pull too hard. The goal is simply to reach the cup. Then pinch the base of the cup to fold it slightly. It’s important to pinch the cup to release the suction effect and let air in.
Never remove your menstrual cup by pulling only on the stem
Use your pelvic muscles to help with removal. They’ll help you push the cup out. Everything should be done gradually, gently, and without pain. Thanks to your pelvic floor and your abs, your cup will move down.
RINSE THE CUP using warm water only. During your period, there’s no need to sterilize the cup after every removal. Once emptied and rinsed, you can insert it again. You’re good to go for another 6 to 8 hours. However, when your period is ending, remember to sterilize the cup.
It is recommended to keep your menstrual cup in for 6 to 8 hours.
How do you clean your menstrual cup?
It’s important to clean your menstrual cup carefully. We recommend washing your cup with clear water and a mild, neutral soap such as Marseille soap, or a soap specifically designed for intimate hygiene.
Avoid scented soaps and creams, which can irritate the skin and vagina. These products may contain alcohol or other ingredients that are not ideal for your menstrual cup. Also avoid white vinegar or other household detergents (dishwashing liquid or similar).
Use cold water to rinse it, as this helps prevent stains from setting in.
How do you sterilize your menstrual cup?
On the first day of each cycle, make it a habit to sterilize your cup. There are several ways to sterilize a cup. You can use sterilizing tablets or boil your menstrual cup in water for 7 minutes. The pot must be tall enough for the cup to be fully submerged without touching the bottom. To prevent your menstrual cup from burning against the sides of the pot, you can place it inside a whisk so it doesn’t touch the edges.
To make sterilization easier, Louloucup offers a sterilizer. Two sterilization options are available:
To sterilize your cup in the microwave with the Louloucup sterilizer
Remove the lid from your Louloucup sterilizer and place your cup inside, stem facing down.
Cover with water and place the sterilizer in the microwave for 5 minutes at 750 watts.
To sterilize your cup with boiling water using the Louloucup sterilizer
Remove the lid and place your cup inside, stem facing down.
Cover with boiling water and wait 5 minutes.
After 5 minutes, let your cup cool under cold water before reusing it. You can store it in its storage pouch once your cycle is over. We also sell beautiful waterproof pouches that are perfect for storing your cup!
If you don’t want to buy a steriliser, the simplest option is to place your menstrual cup in a saucepan of boiling water for a few minutes. To prevent your menstrual cup from burning against the sides of the pan, you can place it inside a whisk so it doesn’t touch the edges.
My menstrual cup is stained with blood—how can I clean it?
Over time, your cup may show blood stains. This is completely normal. It does not affect how you use your menstrual cup.
If you want to remove blood stains from your menstrual cup, it’s very simple. Soak it in a mixture made of half hydrogen peroxide and half clear water. You can leave it to soak overnight. The next day, your menstrual cup will look as good as new!
You can do this hydrogen peroxide soak once a year.
How do you use your menstrual cup when you're on the go or at work?
Generally, thanks to its large absorbency capacity, you shouldn’t need to empty your cup away from home. If, however, you do need to empty your cup while you’re out, here are a few tips:
You can use accessible toilets for people with reduced mobility. These toilets are equipped with a sink, which allows you to rinse your menstrual cup just like at home!
Otherwise, you can:
Choose a pack of two menstrual cups so you always have a clean one ready.
Remember to pop a bottle of water or a small flask in your bag so you can rinse your cup over the toilet bowl.
Take your sterilizer with you: it lets you easily rinse your cup on the go. Fill it with water, place the cup inside and shake. Then simply pour the used water into the toilet.
Period Panties, instead of or in addition to the Menstrual Cup?
Period panties are the perfect complement to the menstrual cup. At Loulou, we offer a wide range of panties to suit every flow, including heavy and very heavy (haemorrhagic) flows.
If your flow is extremely heavy, the menstrual cup + period panty combo can really make your period much more comfortable.
At Louloucup, we offer both. The best option is to buy one menstrual cup and three period panties, chosen according to your preferences and needs, so you can manage your period with ease and peace of mind.
In conclusion, the menstrual cup is practical, economical, eco-friendly, hygienic, healthy, discreet, reliable, odour-free and comfortable. Convinced yet?
If you’d like to switch to a menstrual cup, we recommend our bundle: 2 cups + 1 Louloucup steriliser. 🌟
If you have any questions, the Louloucup team is always here to help. With us, there are no taboos :)
