Looking to cut waste, save money and feel good while bleeding? Let’s start with the basics. Menstrual cups are a reusable alternative to pads and tampons — but not all cups are created equal. Here’s everything you need to know about menstrual cups, how the Mooncup came to be, and why it’s been trusted by millions since 2002.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, soft, foldable cup made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, or plastic that’s inserted into the vagina during your period. Unlike tampons or pads, a cup collects menstrual blood rather than absorbing it.
Once full, the cup is removed, emptied, rinsed and reinserted — ready to go again. Menstrual cups are designed to be washed and reused, making them an eco-friendly and cost-saving alternative to single-use period products.
What is the Mooncup?
The Mooncup is the original medical-grade silicone menstrual cup — designed by people with periods, for people with periods.
Launched in 2002, the Mooncup was the first silicone menstrual cup in the world. Hypoallergenic, latex-free and endlessly reusable, it offers a safe, sustainable, and zero-waste alternative to tampons and pads. Today, it’s trusted by millions of users across the globe.
Mooncup users have already helped divert more than 3 billion disposables from landfill and the ocean. That’s the power of choosing better period care.
And if you’re still on the fence? We offer a Satisfaction Guarantee — because we’re that sure you’ll love your Mooncup.
Who invented the menstrual cup?
The first-ever menstrual cup was created in 1937 by American actress and inventor Leona Chalmers. Made from rubber, her early design was practical and innovative — but unfortunately, it didn’t quite take off at the time. The outbreak of World War II led to rubber rationing, and the rise of the disposable tampon (complete with shiny new applicators) pushed the cup out of sight and out of mind.
Who invented the Mooncup?
Fast-forward to the year 2000, and Su Hardy, a British entrepreneur, discovered a rubber menstrual cup while travelling in Australia. Seeing its potential, she began importing it back to the UK. But when she noticed some people experienced irritation from the latex, she set out to find something better.
In 2002, Su invented the Mooncup — the world’s first reusable menstrual cup made from medical-grade silicone. And the rest, as they say, is bloody brilliant history.
Got questions about how to use a menstrual cup or whether the Mooncup’s right for you? We’ve got you. Reach out to our friendly team at customercare@wearemooncup.com — we’re here to help.
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.
