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Diva International is one of the largest manufacturers of menstrual cups, reusable feminine hygiene products.
DivaCups are small, funnel-shaped cups made of clear, medical-grade silicone that’s pliable and foldable. They’re inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid.
Menstrual cups are considered an eco-friendly alternative to single-use pads and tampons, because they can be washed and reused.
Anyone with a period may be looking for a comfortable, leak-free, and sustainable way to manage their menstruation. Keep reading to see if menstrual cups, like the DivaCup, are right for you.
Pros
- reusable and eco-friendly
- may hold more than 1 ounce of menstrual fluid
- more cost-effective than pads and tampons over time
- can be worn up to 12 consecutive hours
- comes in three sizes based on age and flow
- made with medical-grade and BPA-free materials
- no chemicals, plastics, or dyes
- soft silicone is flexible and comfortable
- creates a suction to reduce leaking
Cons
- can be difficult to insert and remove
- not a mess-free experience
- may interfere with some intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- present, but low, risk of toxic shock syndrome
A DivaCup is one of the oldest menstrual cups, on the market since 2003. It’s made with medical-grade silicone that’s free of BPA, chemicals, plastics, and dyes.
One of the main advantages of a DivaCup over pads and tampons is that you can use it for up to 12 consecutive hours. The DivaCup models made for adults hold a minimum of 1 ounce (30 mL) of menstrual fluid, compared with a regular-size tampon that can absorb approximately 5 mL of fluid.
If you’re wondering how menstrual cups compare to the safety of pads and tampons, they’re just as safe and pose no increased risk of infection.
A DivaCup is leak-free, so you can enjoy activities, like swimming, yoga, running, sleeping, and more. Just don’t wear it during intercourse or when you’re not on your period.
With proper care and cleaning, a DivaCup can last for several years before needing to be replaced, making it an eco-friendly alternative to single-use feminine hygiene products.
There’s a learning curve when discovering how to use a menstrual cup. Similar to your first encounter with tampons, you may be unsure how to insert and remove a DivaCup, how often to empty it out, and how to sanitize it after use.
The DivaCup sits at the base of the vagina, away from the cervix. The flexible silicone allows you to comfortably insert, wear, and remove the DivaCup with ease, while the shape is designed to hold menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it like a tampon.
To insert a DivaCup
- Fold the cup, so the edge is curved.
- Gently separate the labia with your other hand, and push the folded cup into the vagina horizontally.
- Gripping the base of the cup, rotate the cup 360 degrees, so it becomes unfolded and creates a seal.
Removing the DivaCup is simpler, but it’s important to break the suction before removing.
To remove a DivaCup
- Pull on the stem of the DivaCup until you feel the base.
- Pinch the base of the cup to release the suction and slowly pull until the cup is removed.
- Always wash your hands before and after using a DivaCup.
A menstrual cup may be a good fit for people who care about living a more sustainable and cost-effective lifestyle. Menstrual cups can last for several years. DivaCup says that many people report their cups lasting 2 to 4 years.
Additionally, a menstrual cup like the DivaCup holds more blood than regular pads and tampons, so they may be a good option for people with heavy flows, people who travel a lot, or lifestyles that don’t allow them to change a pad or tampon with as much frequency.
The DivaCup comes in three sizes depending on your age and flow:
- Model 0: for ages 18 and under and holds just over half an ounce (20 mL)
- Model 1: for ages 19 to 30 with medium flow and holds 1 ounce (30 mL)
- Model 2: for ages 30+ or those with a heavy flow and holds just over 1 ounce (32 mL)
“I have never used anything like the cup before, but I can honestly say it is one of the most life-changing products! It has changed the way I feel about my period! The biggest plus for me has to be the no leaks at night and how long I can actually keep it in for without having to worry about leaking. It lasts almost exactly 12 hours on my heaviest day. While I still don’t love getting my period, it has made a significant improvement in my overall comfort, and I just want others to experience it too! Not to mention the good it does for the environment and your wallet!” — Shilpa Gopal
“I had never really given much thought to using tampons and the potential negative impacts of them on me and the environment. It was after talking to a few people [when] I started to do some research and realized I was putting toxic chemicals into my body every month. I had originally tried another menstrual cup brand, which resulted in some leakage and failed attempts. I switched to DivaCup and have not experienced those issues since. I advise others to learn from my mistakes. Another tip is to make sure you choose the right size DivaCup for your age and body.” — Katrina Parsons
“I decided to try the DivaCup, because it is more eco-friendly and cost-effective. I didn’t like throwing away my menstrual pads after each single use, so I like that DivaCup is a reusable option that is better for the environment. I also appreciate that I can wear a DivaCup for several hours, even while exercising! Since the DivaCup stays in one position, there’s no need to worry about leaking throughout the day. I will continue to use a DivaCup, because it is travel-friendly, more sustainable, and affordable.” — Jenny Vu
Diva International Inc. is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
In 2015, a confirmed case of toxic shock syndrome was linked to the DivaCup, according to a case presentation published in the
However, the
DivaCup receives positive reviews from customers across many retailers.
DivaCup is one of many menstrual cups on the market, though it was one of the first that was available to consumers.
Pricing guide
- $ = under $39
- $$ = over $39
| Price | Sizes offered | Extras | |
| Lunette | $$ | 2 | carry-on pouch |
| The Keeper | $ | 2 | none |
| Lily Cup | $ | 2 | none |
| FLEX Cup | $ | 2 | pull tab |
| FemmyCycle | $ | 3 | removal ring |
| Cora Cup | $$ | 2 | vegan leather clutch |
| MeLuna | $ | 4 | customizable cups |
| Lena Cup | $ | 2 | none |
There are some similarities between the various menstrual cup options, and certain features may be a better fit for you.
When comparing menstrual cups, consider features, like shape, size, and materials. Since DivaCup comes in multiple sizes, it’s suitable for a variety of people.
How do you clean your DivaCup? DivaWash is the answer.
It’s a plant-based cleanser specifically designed to clean menstrual cups. It comes in a 4-ounce, mess-free tube as well as a travel-friendly version. Plus, it’s naturally scented, cruelty-free, and pH balanced.
These products are designed for your hands, not your menstrual cup. Use the hand soap to wash your hands both before and after handling your DivaCup.
The hand lotion destroys bacteria while moisturizing your skin.
If you worry about cleaning your DivaCup in public restrooms, the DivaWipes are for you. They’re compostable wipes that can be used to clean your menstrual cup when you’re away from home and don’t want to use the public bathroom sink.
Free of perfumes, dyes, and alcohol, these wipes are made with 100 percent cotton.
DivaCup considers the Shaker Cup a “portable dishwasher for your DivaCup.” It’s a travel-friendly, collapsible container made of BPA-free silicone.
To use it, place your DivaCup inside with some water and put the lid on. Shake until the menstrual cup comes clean.
Is it safe to sleep with a DivaCup?
Yes, you can sleep with a DivaCup. It can be worn up to 12 consecutive hours and is suitable for wear during a variety of activities, including sleeping.
How do you clean a DivaCup?
There are several ways to clean a DivaCup. You can use cleaning products, like DivaWash or DivaWipes, or you can use a mild, unscented, oil-free soap. Thoroughly clean the rim of the DivaCup and the four holes near the rim. Boiling your DivaCup for 5 to 10 minutes in-between each cycle is also recommended.
Avoid placing your DivaCup in the dishwasher or using cleaning products that contain vinegar, fragrance, bleach, and other ingredients that can irritate your vagina.
How long does a DivaCup last?
The DivaCup can last for several years with proper care. The general guideline is to replace your DivaCup once a year, but it can last much longer if cleaned frequently and according to the care instructions.
If your cup shows any signs of deterioration, it may be time to replace it.
For many people who turn to menstrual cups to manage their periods, the DivaCup is one of the first brands they consider.
Though there’s usually a learning curve, many users report a positive experience with DivaCup, because it minimizes leakage and can be worn up to 12 hours at a time. It’s also more eco-friendly and cost-effective than single-use products.
However, using a DivaCup is a more hands-on experience than pads or tampons. If you’re uncomfortable handling menstrual fluids, a DivaCup might not be right for you. If a little blood doesn’t scare you, a DivaCup may change the way you view your period, like it has for others.
Lacey Bourassa is a health, wellness, and beauty writer based in Southern California. She holds a BA in English. Her work has appeared in digital publications like Livestrong, Verywell, Business Insider, Eat This Not That, and others. When she’s not writing, Lacey is likely pursuing her other interests: skin care, plant-based cooking, pilates, and traveling. You can keep up with her by visiting her website or her blog.