Physically, The DivaCup is suitable for women of all ages as the vagina is made up of very flexible tissue and muscles. Women's bodies are designed this way to be able to stretch to deliver a baby. The tissue returns back to its normal size after expansion with intercourse or childbirth. It is the muscles that usually need to be strengthened after childbirth.

Many of our customers are as young as 11 or 12 years old. It is ideal for young girls who are very active (such as swimmers or gymnasts) who are looking for a more reliable method other than tampons or pads. For those concerned about the hymen, please consult your physician before use of any internal feminine hygiene protection. As for all other gynecological concerns, we suggest you consult your physician.

Everyone is unique and there are many variables. Many young women use The DivaCup. Please read and understand all of the FAQs. This will help you make an informed decision!

Most women find that they do not have to remove The DivaCup more often than every 12 hours, and that taking it out in a public restroom does not occur very often. However, for women with heavier flows, or on the occasion you need to empty it in a public restroom, simply remove the cup, empty the contents and use a dry or damp tissue to clean the cup and reinsert. Make sure your hands are clean before going into the stall. Wash your DivaCup well with warm, soapy water at the next convenient time.

No, The DivaCup is bell-shaped and worn low near the vaginal opening. It should be removed before intercourse. The DivaCup is not a birth control device and should not be used for this purpose. The DivaCup is regulated by the FDA and Health Canada solely for use only as feminine hygiene protection.

The DivaCup is not suggested for use with an Intrauterine Device (IUD). It is possible for the IUD to become dislodged, displaced or removed when the menstrual cup is removed by inadvertently pulling on the IUD string. As with all gynecological concerns, please consult with your physician.

The DivaCup is worn low at the base of the vagina and is away from the cervix, it should not interfere with your Nuvaring®.

There is a possibility that the NuvaRing® can become dislodged while using any kind of internal feminine hygiene protection. Consequently, we recommend that you consult your physician before use of any kind of internal feminine hygiene product, including a menstrual cup.

Many of our customers use The DivaCup and the Nuvaring® simultaneously and have not reported any problems.

Please note: The DivaCup sits below the cervix and not up against it, so it is important to aim it toward the tailbone not “up”. It is not inserted in the same way as a tampon.

Menstrual blood is measured for health reasons. Gynecologists, physicians, naturopaths and acupuncturists will ask about flow and change of menstrual flow to determine health and hormonal factors, fertility concerns, etc. A good site to refer to is www.endometriosis.org.

Disposable tampons and pads and even washable pads are not a reliable or scientific method of determining flow, because they come in many absorbencies, contain surfactants and moisture control agents.

The 'U' Fold (also called the ‘C’ Fold):

Press the sides of the cup together and then fold it in half again.


The 'Push Down' Fold:

Holding the cup between your fingers, place your index finger on the rim of the cup. Punch down one side of the rim into the base of the cup to form a triangle. The opposite, remaining side will now appear as a small tip which is easy to insert.

To ensure proper insertion, carefully read and follow the instructions. Make sure that you aim it horizontally towards your tailbone and that you are able to make one full rotation. Also, try running your finger around the cup pushing it against the opposite side of the vaginal wall. The stem may be trimmed for comfort.

You may want to use another method – the “push down” method: push one side of the cup into itself, then pinch the sides together.  

The DivaCup sits lower than the cervix, so it is important to aim it toward the tailbone not “up”. Your cup could be positioned at an angle, so you may need to push the cup (toward your tailbone, not up) slightly further.

Please try this little tip: put the cup in about half way, turn the cup one full rotation and then push it the rest of the way in. Since it will open up before inserting fully, you will know that it is has fully opened and that you will create the seal for it to stay in place; therefore, the cup should not give you any discomfort.

With a bit of practice it will only take a few seconds to insert and remove it correctly.

The DivaCup holds one ounce (30 ml). The entire average monthly flow is approximately 1 to 1.4 ounces (30-40 ml). By monitoring the fullness of the cup over a couple of periods, you will quickly learn how often to empty it according to your specific needs. Most women find that the cup is not even half full after 12 hours. For those with heavier flows, the cup is simply emptied more often.

The DivaCup is emptied, washed and reinserted 2-3 times per 24 hour day. It can be worn up to 12 hours at a time, but it must be emptied, washed and reinserted at least 2 times a day (twice in a 24 hour period). It can be worn up to 12 hours overnight. Most women need only to empty it in the morning and again in the evening.

It is not necessary to remove it for urination or bowel movements; however, The DivaCup must be removed prior to intercourse.

If the stem irritates the vaginal opening once it is positioned correctly, you may remove the cup and trim the stem slightly. Please use a sharp embroidery or fingernail scissor to round the hard edge to prevent further irritation.

Yes, you should still purchase the Model 2. The size of a women’s body does not affect the size of a vaginal canal. Many of our customers that are over 30, with no children are very small framed and use Model 2.

Physically, The DivaCup is suitable for women of all ages as the vagina is just made up of very flexible tissue and muscles. Women's bodies are designed this way to be able to stretch to deliver a baby. After being stretched after intercourse or childbirth the tissue returns back to its normal size.

There is not a big difference between the two sizes (Model 1 is 1/8" (~0.3 cm) smaller), but it is important to use the recommended sizing to prevent leakage.

We recommend Model 2 if you are 30 years old or older because as we age, our hips naturally widen and the vaginal muscles lose elasticity. Since it is the vaginal muscles which hold The DivaCup in place, it is important to use Model 2 if you are over 30, even if you have not had childbirth.

In order to get the best results it is very important to insert it correctly. Make sure that you aim it horizontally towards your tailbone and that you are able to make one full rotation. Please review the User Guide for more tips on insertion and sizing when you get your DivaCup.

Yes, when used as directed, The DivaCup is more sanitary than tampons or pads.

The DivaCup is made from top quality, healthcare grade silicone, which is 100% latex-free, plastic-free, BPA-free and odorless. It is non-absorbent and does not disrupt one’s natural vaginal environment.

The vagina is self-cleansing and continually producing fluid that “flushes” the vagina. Tampons (rayon and cotton) absorb this protective fluid and can disrupt the normal acidic vaginal environment.

Remember to wash and rinse your hands before inserting and removing your DivaCup. Wash your DivaCup well with The DivaWash or a low or balanced pH, unscented soap and warm water at least twice a day. The best cleaning agent to use is The DivaWash. We have formulated it to be pH balanced at 5.5, which is best for the cup and you, as it does not leave residue. Also, it should be boiled for 20 minutes at the end of each cycle. Please review the Cleaning and Caring category in the FAQs for boiling instructions.

The four holes under the rim are of vital importance. They create the seal that secures the cup in place. If the holes or stem need extra cleaning, we suggest that you soak the cup in warm water for a few minutes then use a soft toothbrush (specifically designated only for the cup) for this. You can also use a toothpick (discarding after use). We do not suggest a pin as it may cause damage to the cup.

The DivaWash is a gentle, yet effective cleanser specially formulated for The DivaCup.  It does not contain any harsh chemicals and does not leave residue or fragrance.  Botanically enriched, The DivaWash leaves your Diva body clean, soft and never dry.  Use daily as a facial cleanser or as luxurious shower and bath gel.

The DivaWash is formulated as a concentrate which can reduce your eco-footprint!

Because we sell to distributors we don’t always know which stores carry which products. We suggest that you contact the stores listed on our Store Locator. You can also request that your local natural food, grocery and environmental  store or local pharmacy to carry The DivaCup and The DivaWash – they can order it for you!

If you would like to purchase The DivaWash online, you can purchase from www.drugstore.com.

The DivaWash contains the following ingredients:

water, [cocamidopropyl betain, decyl polyglucose, sodium cocoyl isethionate (coconut derived ingredients)], vegetable glycerin, caprylic/capric triglyceride, tocopherol acetate (vitamin E), ascorbic acid (vitamin C), retinyl palmitate (vitamin A), citrus officinalis (grapefruit seed extract - natural preservative and antimicrobial), xanthan gum, citric acid (pH balancer), citrus sinensis (sweet orange essential oil)

Menstrual cups can sometimes discolor from the flow. If The DivaCup starts to discolor, it can be submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for twenty (20) minutes. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry.

Anytime The DivaCup is exposed to unsanitary conditions such as a toilet, please replace it with a new one.

At the end of each cycle The DivaCup should be washed and rinsed and then submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for twenty (20) minutes. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry. Also, washing your DivaCup with The DivaWash or a pH balanced, unscented soap and warm water is a great way to keep it clean on a regular basis.

You will need to replace the cup, because the silicone is compromised once the boiling water has evaporated. Please review our Cleaning and Caring category in the FAQs.

Yes! It's fantastic for swimming, aerobics, cycling, traveling, dancing, hiking, biking, running, camping, etc. It is perfect for extreme sports also. You will feel fresh, secure, and liberated. No feminine hygiene products to pack (or run out of). No worries about staying close to a bathroom. No restrictions on physical activity. Because you can wear The DivaCup longer than tampons or pads, you have the convenience of not having to think about your period all day long!

Yes! The DivaCup is great for traveling. It weighs so little and there are no bulky supplies to pack or run out of. From business trips to family vacations to backpacking across the world, The DivaCup is all you need!

When washing in remote areas use potable water (see additional FAQs). The DivaCup really only needs to be washed well twice a day. If you need to remove it in a public place, just wipe it with tissue and replace. At the next convenient time, simply wash the cup with warm, soapy water. The most important thing to remember is to make sure your hands are clean before you insert or remove the cup.

There should be no problem using The DivaCup on an airplane. For the best results please ensure your cup has been inserted properly. 

The holes under the rim are important to secure the cup in place. If the holes need extra cleaning, we suggest that you soak the cup in warm water for a few minutes then use a soft toothbrush (specifically designated only for the cup) for this. You can also use a toothpick (discarding after use). We do not suggest a pin as it may cause damage to the cup.

Please use standard “cathole” practices. Also, observe the practice of containing the flow in a sealed plastic bag and hanging in a “bear bag” with other trash away from other animals.

Cathole: Catholes should be dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, trails, and drainages. Bring a trowel to dig the hole, and disguise it well after use.*

Bear Bag: In bear country, hang “smellables” from tree limbs 12 feet off the ground, 6 feet from the tree’s trunk, and 6 feet below the supporting limb, or store it in specially designed bear-resistant canisters or on-site lockers.*

* Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics http://www.lnt.org/

The DivaCup can be wiped out with tissue, washed and rinsed later. Please remember to wash your hands before inserting or removing The DivaCup.

The DivaCup holds one ounce (30 ml). The entire average monthly flow is around 30 to 40 ml according to the Mayo Clinic.

Theoretically, the flow could slosh around inside the cup and reverse out of the cup slightly, but it cannot travel back through the small cervical opening from which the flow expels.

It's fantastic for swimming, outdoor enthusiasts, aerobics, cycling, traveling, camping, etc. It is perfect for extreme sports also. You will feel fresh, secure, and liberated. No feminine hygiene products to pack (or run out of). No worries about staying close to a bathroom. No restrictions on physical activity. Because you can wear The DivaCup longer than tampons or pads, you have the convenience of not having to think about your period all day long!

We are a holder of Medical Device Licenses with both the FDA and Health Canada. Under the regulations, and because it is a personal hygiene product, it is suggested that menstrual cups should be replaced once a year. The silicone used in The DivaCup – which is 100% plastic-free, BPA-free, latex-free and odorless – is the same material and grade approved for healthcare applications.

Diva International Inc. is ISO 13485 certified to meet the new medical device requirements of Health Canada as of January 1st, 2003. This certification ensures that The DivaCup is manufactured, packaged, and sold following specific procedures that assure the highest quality, safety and effectiveness of the product.

ISO 13485 is a Quality Standard governed by the International Organization of Standardization in Geneva, Switzerland, and is recognized and practiced in over 160 countries around the world. ISO 13485 is the quality standard for medical devices. It has been designed to ensure that companies follow strict guidelines to ensure the highest quality of their products, as well as meeting applicable government requirements.

Some women are concerned that silicone is dangerous because of its association with breast implants. There is a major difference between the silicone in breast implants and the silicone used in The DivaCup. The older breast implants that caused problems were made from a sac filled with silicone gel, a different material to what we use for The DivaCup. In the past, problems occurred when the sacs ruptured or improperly sealed valves allowed the silicone gel to leak into the
body.

The DivaCup is made of a high quality, soft healthcare grade silicone that starts as a liquid. Then the molecules are bound together (or vulcanized) with very high heat to form a solid stable piece of silicone (similar to the feel of soft rubber). The DivaCup is cured after production in an oven at a very high temperature to make sure all the molecules are bound and “chain linked” together.  Since the end product is a solid material yet flexible and durable, there is no possibility for anything to leak into the body (no leaching).

This form of silicone is odorless, has antibacterial properties, is latex-free, plastic-free and BPA-free. It has been used safely in healthcare applications for over 50 years. Our silicone is approved for use in The DivaCup as feminine hygiene protection by the FDA and Health Canada.

The FDA has cleared The DivaCup for use by the FDA for use as feminine hygiene protection. It also holds a current Health Canada medical device license.

More about silicone:

The three most common elements found on earth: hydrogen, carbon and silicon are combined to create silicone. Silicon is the second most abundant element in the earth's crust and found in sand, quartz and rocks.

Silicone products have been shown to be biocompatible (i.e. accepted by the human body without adverse reaction), durable, flexible, and easy to sterilize. Silicone materials have been extensively tested in laboratory studies, as well as clinical studies that study human health.
Silicone comes in oil, liquid, gel and solid forms. Solid silicone differs from the silicone gel used in breast implants. The DivaCup is made from top quality, healthcare grade silicone in the solid form where the molecules are chain-linked and bound together. Solid healthcare grade silicone does not leach into the body and has been used for over 50 years for medical procedures.

Because silicone is manufactured in various forms, it appears in a wide variety of products that most of us use every day. Hairsprays, medicines, cosmetics, suntan lotions and moisturizing creams are just some of the consumer products that contain a form of silicone.

The DivaCup is made from top quality silicone – the same material used in healthcare applications for over 50 years.

Silicone is phthalate-free, latex-free, plastic-free and BPA-free!

There are no acrylics or acrylates in the silicone or in the manufacturing process of The DivaCup!

We took a hard look at offering The DivaCup in colored silicone but decided against it.

Brightly colored silicone is fun but artificial, chemical-based dyes are used to create it. We chose the clear silicone cup because the skin, including the sensitive skin of the vaginal walls, should not be exposed to dyes, chemicals, etc.

The DivaCup is made from only top quality silicone, a material used in healthcare applications for over 50 years.

Physically, The DivaCup is suitable for women of all ages as the vagina is made up of very flexible tissue and muscles. Women's bodies are designed this way to be able to deliver a baby. After being expanded, after intercourse or childbirth, the tissue returns back to its normal size.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is considered a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by toxin-producing strains of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. TSS has been linked to high absorbency and prolonged use of tampons. There are now regulations in labeling for tampon absorbency to decrease the risk of TSS.

Symptoms of TSS often mimic the flu and can include sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, or a rash that looks like a sunburn during your period or a few days after.

If you have had TSS, do not use a menstrual cup. As with any gynecological concern, please consult your physician.

An increased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is not associated with the use of menstrual cups. We mention TSS in our literature so that women will be aware of this serious condition.

We suggest that you consult with your physician concerning TSS and the use of a menstrual cup.

Yes, The DivaCup can be worn for women with a tipped or tilted uterus. Since it is worn lower in the vaginal canal it does not interfere with the position of the uterus. Of course, as with all gynecological concerns, please check with your physician first.

The DivaCup is worn low in the vaginal canal collecting the flow far away from the cervix. The DivaCup does not cause retrograde menstruation. Remember that retrograde menstruation does not even refer to the flow going upwards from the vagina into the cervix, but actually from the uterus into the fallopian tubes. In this case, the actual form of feminine protection used has no impact on retrograde menstruation. As we mentioned earlier, this happens in the majority of women.

We have had many customers over the years that suffer from severe endometriosis (including some doctors) who have reported amazing success with The DivaCup and even some relief. Since endometriosis causes heavy bleeding, our customers report that The DivaCup is able to support their very heavy flows with minimal to no leakage.

Please consult with your physician concerning any gynecological concerns.

There is no increased risk of yeast infections with the use of menstrual cups if they are cleaned properly. Please see cleaning and boiling instructions in our FAQs.

The DivaCup has been cleared for marketing by the FDA and Health Canada. Menstrual cups have undergone rigorous reviews for over 30 years. These government bodies determine safety and efficiency.

There is no evidence that menstrual cups increase the risk of yeast or bacterial infections, but we do suggest using The DivaWash (or a pH balanced soap), because it does not leave a residue. Soap residue can cause irritations. As for all gynecological concerns, we suggest you consult your physician.

Menstrual cups are regulated by the FDA and Health Canada for use only as feminine hygiene protection. They are not to be used as a birth control device and do not protect from Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STDs).

The DivaCup must be removed prior to intercourse.

One could have a sensitivity to any substance, but it is extremely rare to have a sensitivity to silicone. Studies indicate that silicone is biocompatible with the body. This is why silicone has been used in healthcare applications for over 50 years.

If you experience a skin sensitivity, we suggest that you not wear the cup for a full  24 hours – especially on light days. It may be best to “take a break” for this period of time.

Should you have any concerns, we suggest that you check with your physician or dermatologist.

Please note: the cup can be submerged in an open pan of boiling water (continuous rolling boil) for twenty (20) minutes before use. Do not leave the boiling pot unattended and use enough water so that the pan does not boil dry.

Should you have any concerns about allergies, please consult your physician.

No, it is best to discontinue use until the infection has cleared up completely. Because we are not medically staffed, we do not know if yeast (Candida albicans) can be killed with boiling. Consequently, we suggest replacing the cup with a new one once the infection is completely clear.

Also, never use the cup at the same time topical medication is being used. The medication may compromise the silicone and ruin the cup. If this has happened, please replace the cup with a new one.

There is no increased risk of yeast infections with the use of menstrual cups if they are cleaned properly. Please review the Cleaning and Caring category in the FAQs.

For further questions concerning vaginal infections, please contact a physician or healthcare provider.

The DivaCup is made from soft, healthcare grade silicone that is 100% hypo-allergenic. Some other menstrual cups are made from natural latex rubber (gum rubber), which contains a protein called nitrosomine. Women who have allergies or sensitivities to any form of latex should not use menstrual cups which are made from latex rubber.

The DivaCup also features extra grip ridges for easier removal. The stem of The DivaCup is shorter than other cups to allow for added comfort and a more secure fit with less leakage. Other patent-pending features make The DivaCup reliable, comfortable and easy-to-use. 

The DivaCup is regulated by the FDA and is the only menstrual cup that holds a valid Health Canada license.

The DivaCup’s patent-pending design has been expertly engineered within the framework of FDA and Health Canada guidelines and is the only menstrual cup that is ISO certified.

The DivaCup is designed to be worn lower than other menstrual cups. Therefore, the stem has been designed shorter and the rounded edge on the stem is designed for more comfort. We use the highest quality silicone (there are many grades) to assure comfort and durability. It is a reliable alternative to pads and tampons.

At first glance it may seem that The DivaCup is expensive compared to buying a box of tampons or pads.  However, every DivaCup user will attest that it is worth every penny. The best part is that The DivaCup pays for itself in just a few months since it is a reusable product. You no longer have to purchase endless menstrual products.  Switching to The DivaCup is a small investment (the cost of a moderately priced blouse or a dinner out) and yet it can save approximately $100.00-150.00 U.S. a year.

You can locate an authorized seller closest to you by visiting our Store Locator. You can also order online from www.drugstore.com (U.S.) or www.lunapads.com (Canada). Retail price ranges from $32.50-40.00 U.S. This amounts to a savings of $100-150 U.S. a year when compared to using disposables. Additionally, The DivaCup is the most economical and environmentally responsible feminine hygiene choice, because it is reusable!

We suggest that you follow the lead of thousands of others: tell all your friends and most importantly, request that your local natural, environmental and drugstores carry The DivaCup. We can only advertise and publicize so much, yet having The DivaCup on store shelves makes it more visible to more women than any other medium. 

Please ask your local natural food, environmental, or drugstores to carry The DivaCup and give them our sales contact information. www.divacup.com and 866-444-DIVA (3482).

Because all menstrual cups are regulated by the U.S. FDA, Health Canada and regulatory bodies in respective countries, we must adhere to specific regulations and standards in every aspect of our marketing and sales. Consequently, we cannot allow consumers to sell to other consumers, or create/use advertising or promotional materials of any type. You may contact us directly for any specific needs you may have!    

We do not have coupons per se, but our retailers and www.drugstore.com often run specials.

Reminder: the Suggested Retail Price is $32.50-40.00 U.S. This reflects a savings of $100-150 U.S. a year when compared to purchasing disposables. Additionally, The DivaCup is the most environmentally responsible feminine hygiene choice because it is reusable!

Because of the amount of energy and resources expended to send an individual order, we encourage consumers to make an effort to order from a local retailer. This is the most environmentally-friendly method of purchasing The DivaCup. Also, other women who see it on the store shelf, become curious, and they investigate this revolutionary, modern alternative.

Our goal is to make The DivaCup visible to as many women as possible and to support our retailers and e-tailers. These stores share the vision for The DivaCup concept – both from an environmental and health point of view, so we greatly appreciate their understanding of the importance of the concept. .

We market The DivaCup as a way for women to lessen their own “eco-footprint” and we, as a company, are doing this also by encouraging purchase through a local retailer or any of our e-tailers.

Please see a list of retailers/e-tailers and their locations on our Store Locator. For international vendors click here.

We have a PDF that we can email or mail to you. Please contact info@divacup.com.

We find that once most women learn the knack of using The DivaCup they do not want to return it, so we offer continued assistance on how to use the cup should one need more information.

We do not offer returns or refunds. We require the cup be returned in the seldom case of manufacturer defect. Please contact info@divacup.com.