Periods 101
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How to choose the best menstrual cup for you
Switching to a menstrual cup is one of the smartest things you can do for your body, your wallet and the planet. But with so many period cups out there - different sizes, shapes, materials, even glittery ones (why?) - it can be hard to know which one’s actually safe, comfortable and right for you.
Here’s what you need to look out for to find the best menstrual cup for your body - and what to avoid.
First: what is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup (or period cup) is a small, reusable cup worn internally to collect menstrual blood. Most are made from medical-grade silicone and can last up to 10 years if cared for properly.
Unlike pads and tampons, menstrual cups don’t dry you out, don’t end up in landfill after a few hours, and don’t cost you a fortune every month. Just wash, reuse, and go.
What to look for in a good menstrual cup
Made from high-quality medical-grade silicone
Not all silicone is created equal. Look for platinum-cured, medical-grade silicone - not food-grade or the cheapest option on the market. This is about your vagina, not your lunchbox.
Trusted brand with proper safety standards
In Europe, period products aren’t subject to strict regulations. So choosing a brand that voluntarily holds itself to high standards is key. The Mooncup is made in the UK under ISO-certified quality control. No shortcuts.
Real support, not just a chatbot
Learning how to use a menstrual cup can take a few cycles. Look for a brand that offers proper support - not one that leaves you to figure it out via Reddit. We’re here to answer all your questions.
Does size matter?
Yes - but maybe not in the way you think. Most period cups come in at least two sizes, usually based on whether you've given birth vaginally or your age. But anatomy varies, and so do your flow and cervix height. The right fit means comfort and leak-free protection.
The Mooncup comes in two sizes:
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Size A for those 30+ or who’ve given birth vaginally
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Size B for those under 30 who haven’t
And we also offer the Mooncup Original and Mooncup Beginner.
Are all menstrual cups eco-friendly?
They should be - but greenwashing is real. Some brands throw around words like “organic” and “natural” without backing it up.
⚠️ FYI: No menstrual cup made from silicone can be organic.
"Organic" refers to carbon-based materials produced by living organisms. Silicone is lab-made. If a brand says their cup is organic? Walk away.
A truly eco-friendly menstrual cup is:
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Made to last (10 years)
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Packaged plastic-free
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Ethically produced
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Shipped responsibly
The Mooncup ticks all of those boxes - and has since 2004.
Can menstrual cups leak?
Any menstrual product can leak if it’s not fitted or emptied properly. The right size, correct fold, and a little practice will get you leak-free faster than you think.
Tip: We recommend emptying the Mooncup every 4–8 hours. Not because it’s full, but because it’s safer and more hygienic. Some brands say 12 hours, but medical guidance from places like ANSES (France) and the TGA (Australia) say stick to 8 max. We agree.
Do those online cup quizzes actually work?
Some are helpful. Many aren’t. The most popular menstrual cup quiz online doesn’t even include most UK or EU-based brands (like Mooncup). Plus, many quiz sites make their money through affiliate links - so their “best menstrual cup” might just be the one that pays the most.
Take quizzes with a pinch of salt - and trust your body instead.
Menstrual cup comparison: how does Mooncup measure up?
| Feature | Mooncup Original | Other cups |
| Made in the UK | Yes | Often made in China/USA |
| Medical grade silicone | Yes | Varies (some are food grade) |
| Vegan certified | Yes | Not all are |
| Customer support | Yes | Not all offer additional support |
| Plastic-free packaging | Yes | Varies |
So… how do you choose the best cup?
Don’t get distracted by colours, influencer reviews or TikTok hacks. The best menstrual cup for you is:
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Safe
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Comfortable
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Backed by experience
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Aligned with your values
The Mooncup has been around for 20+ years, trusted by millions, and still stands for everything we started with: better for your body, better for the planet, and no marketing BS.
Thinking about making the switch?
We’re here to help. No jargon, no judgement - just honest answers and support to help you have a better period.
