Wondering when you can use your Mooncup again after having a baby? Or whether you'll need a different size? Let's talk about it.
Pregnancy changes your body in all sorts of ways. And once you've given birth, there's a whole new set of things to get your head around.
Postpartum bleeding. Pelvic floor recovery. The eventual return of your period. And, if you're already a menstrual cup user, one very practical question:
When can I start using my Mooncup again?
The short answer? Yes, you can use a menstrual cup after having a baby. But not straight away.
Here's what you need to know about using a menstrual cup after birth, when it's safe to start again and whether your Mooncup size might need to change.
Can I use a menstrual cup for postpartum bleeding?
No. A menstrual cup shouldn't be used to collect postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia.
Lochia is the blood, mucus and tissue your uterus sheds as it recovers after childbirth. It happens after both vaginal and caesarean births, and can last for several weeks.
Unlike a period, postpartum bleeding is part of the healing process.
After giving birth, there's a wound inside your uterus where the placenta was attached. You may also be recovering from vaginal tears, stitches or a caesarean incision.
Using internal period products, including menstrual cups and tampons, before you've healed can increase the risk of infection.
So for now, put your Mooncup to one side. It'll be there when you're ready.
When can I use my Mooncup again after giving birth?
The NHS recommends waiting until after your six-week postnatal check before using internal period products, including menstrual cups.
This gives your body time to heal and allows you to discuss any concerns about your recovery with your GP.
But six weeks isn't a magic deadline.
If you're still experiencing lochia, discomfort or ongoing healing, don't rush to start using your Mooncup again. Wait until postpartum bleeding has stopped and you've been advised it's safe to resume using internal period products.
In the meantime, maternity pads are the recommended option for managing postpartum bleeding.
Will I need a different Mooncup size after giving birth?
Possibly! And it's worth checking before your first period returns.
Pregnancy and childbirth can affect your pelvic floor muscles, which help support your pelvic organs and influence how a menstrual cup fits.
That's why Mooncup sizing takes both your age and childbirth history into account.
If you used a Size B Mooncup before pregnancy and have since given birth vaginally, we recommend moving to Size A.
Here's our general sizing guidance for the Mooncup Original:
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Size A: If you're aged 30 or over and/or have given birth vaginally.
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Size B: If you're under 30 and haven't given birth vaginally.
If you're between sizes, we generally recommend choosing the smaller size.
Remember, menstrual cup sizing isn't determined by how heavy your period is. It's about finding the right fit for your body.
What if I've had a C-section? Do I need to change my Mooncup size?
Not necessarily.
If you've had a caesarean birth, our sizing guidance doesn't automatically recommend changing sizes based on childbirth alone.
For example, if you're under 30, haven't given birth vaginally and were previously using a Size B, that may still be the right choice.
However, pregnancy itself can affect your pelvic floor, even without a vaginal birth.
So if your old Mooncup doesn't feel quite right when you return to using it, it's worth reviewing your size and fit.
And remember, postpartum bleeding happens after a C-section too. You'll still need to wait until you've recovered before using a menstrual cup again.
What if my Mooncup doesn't fit the same after birth?
Bodies change. That's rather the point.
You might find that your Mooncup feels different after pregnancy and childbirth, particularly if your pelvic floor muscles are still recovering.
If you're experiencing leaks, discomfort or difficulty keeping your cup securely in place, don't assume you just need to get used to it.
Check that you're using the recommended size and that your cup is opening and sitting correctly.
If you're experiencing pelvic heaviness, pain, urinary leakage or other persistent pelvic floor symptoms, speak to your GP or a pelvic health physiotherapist.
A menstrual cup should feel comfortable when inserted correctly. You shouldn't have to put up with pain or persistent discomfort.
When will my period return after having a baby?
There's no universal timeline.
If you're formula feeding or combining breast and formula feeding, your period could return as soon as five to six weeks after birth.
If you're exclusively breastfeeding, it may take several months or longer.
And when your period does return, it might not be exactly as you remember it.
Your flow, cycle length and period symptoms can change after pregnancy. Some people notice heavier periods, while others experience lighter or less predictable cycles.
Once you've recovered, postpartum bleeding has stopped and it's safe to use internal period products again, your Mooncup can be part of your period routine.
Just make sure you've checked your size first.
What should I use instead of a menstrual cup after birth?
While your body's recovering, external protection is the way to go.
Mooncup Maternity & Postpartum Pads are designed specifically for the heavier, less predictable bleeding that follows birth.
Extra-long and wide, with heavy-flow protection, secure wings and a soft 100% organic cotton topsheet that's gentle on tender, healing skin.
No SAPs, synthetic fragrances or dyes.
Soft where it matters. Strong where it counts.
As your bleeding becomes lighter, you may find Heavy/Night Pads or Panty Liners useful, depending on your flow.
We've also put together our Bump to Baby Bundle, with Postpartum Pads, Heavy/Night Pads, Panty Liners and High Waist Period Pants to support changing needs during recovery and beyond.
Because birth isn't where the care stops.
Your body changes. Your period care should keep up.
At Mooncup, we've been making menstrual cups for over 20 years.
And we know that what works for your body at one stage of life might not be quite right at another.
From your first period to postpartum and beyond, your needs change. Your period care should be able to change with them.
So don't worry if your Mooncup needs a size update after giving birth.
And don't feel any pressure to return to using it before you're ready.
Care for the Fourth. Your Mooncup can wait.
Explore Mooncup Menstrual Cups
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Blog disclaimer
Our blog is intended to share information and ideas around periods, health, and sustainability. While we do our best to keep content accurate and up to date, things can change over time. The information here is not intended as medical advice — for any health-related concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. For more information on our claims, please see our Claims Page, and for the most up-to-date product information, please visit our Product Pages.
