Let’s be real — periods can be a pain. Between the cramps that make you want to curl up with a heating pad forever and the constant fear of leaks, it’s a lot to deal with. For decades, the options were pretty limited: pads or tampons. But then something shifted — a quiet little revolution in period care — and suddenly we had something that could actually make life easier: the best menstrual cup for your body.
I still remember the first time I heard about menstrual cups. My immediate thought was, “You put that… up there? For 12 hours?!” It sounded a little wild, a bit intimidating, and honestly, kind of messy.
But working in sexual wellness, I’m always curious about anything that can help us feel more comfortable in our own skin. So, I gave it a try. And wow — it completely changed the game for me.
My period went from a dreaded, high-maintenance event to something I barely noticed. No more racing to the bathroom. No more wasteful wrappers. Just freedom, comfort, and way more confidence.
The tricky part? Finding one that fits you perfectly. There are so many shapes, sizes, and brands out there that it’s like shopping for the perfect pair of jeans — but for your vagina. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into today: how to choose the right one, my favorite LELO designs, and tips for making the switch as smooth (and mess-free) as possible.
Table of Content
Why Even Bother With a Menstrual Cup?
Before we talk specifics, let’s quickly touch on why so many people are calling the menstrual cup the best period product they’ve ever used.
1. Eco-Friendly
One menstrual cup can last for years — even up to a decade. That’s hundreds (if not thousands) of pads and tampons you won’t be sending to landfills.
It’s a small change with a massive positive impact.
2. Cost-Effective
Yes, the upfront cost is higher than a box of tampons. But you buy it once, and you’re good for years. In the long run, you’ll save a surprising amount of money.
3. Comfort & Convenience
This was the big one for me. Once you get the hang of insertion, you literally can’t feel it. You can wear it for 8–12 hours, depending on your flow. That means no packing a purse full of tampons, no panicked bathroom searches, and yes — you can swim, do yoga, travel, and live your life without your period dictating your plans.
4. Healthier for Your Body
Most cups are made from medical-grade silicone — hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and free from harmful chemicals or bleached fibers. Unlike tampons, they collect rather than absorb your flow, helping maintain your natural pH balance and lowering your risk of TSS (toxic shock syndrome).
Finding the Best Menstrual Cup for Your Body
Here’s where the detective work comes in. The best menstrual cup for you depends on your body and your lifestyle.
1. Cervix Height
This is crucial. A high cervix needs a longer cup, a low cervix needs a shorter one. You can check by gently feeling for your cervix during your period — it’ll feel like the tip of your nose.
2. Flow Level
Light flow? Go smaller. Heavy flow? A larger cup with higher capacity will mean fewer changes.
3. Birth & Pelvic Floor History
Vaginal birth can affect cup fit. Many brands recommend larger sizes for those who’ve given birth vaginally, and smaller sizes for those who haven’t.
My Top LELO Picks: The Best Menstrual Cup Contenders
I’ve tested a lot of cups over the years — cheap ones, trendy ones, and those “TikTok viral” ones — but honestly? LELO’s menstrual cup designs always come out on top. They’re not just functional; they’re beautifully made, body-safe, and designed with real-life use in mind.
Whether you’re trying your very first cup or you’ve been a loyal user for years, these are my personal picks for the best menstrual cup from LELO’s collection — each one perfect for different needs and lifestyles.
1. Best for Beginners — LELO Lily Cup One
If you’re new to menstrual cups, the LELO Lily Cup One is my go-to recommendation. Why? Because it’s designed specifically for first-time users who might feel a little intimidated by the idea of inserting a cup.
Beginner-Friendly Rim – The firmer rim makes it “pop open” easily once inserted, which means less fiddling around.
Mess-Free Removal Loop – No slippery fingers or panicked moments; the removal loop makes it a stress-free process.
Discreet & Portable – It folds into a tiny, discreet case that slips right into your pocket or makeup bag.
Body-Safe & Long-Lasting – Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, hypoallergenic, and designed to last up to 10 years.
💡 Tip for new users: Pair this with a water-based lubricant the first few times to make insertion even smoother.
2. Best for Active Lifestyles — LELO Lily Cup Compact
The LELO Lily Cup Compact is hands-down the best menstrual cup if you’re constantly on the go. Think gym sessions, long commutes, camping trips — this cup can handle it all.
World’s First Collapsible Cup – Folds flat into its case so you can carry it anywhere, even in skinny jeans.
Soft & Flexible Silicone – Gentle on your body, yet secure enough for movement-heavy days.
Two Size Options – So you can choose the perfect fit for your flow and anatomy.
Long Wear Time – Up to 8 hours of leak-proof protection.
💡 Perfect for: Runners, travelers, or anyone who hates carrying bulky period products around.
3. Best for High Cervix & Heavy Flow — LELO Lily Cup
If you’ve got a high cervix, a longer cup is your friend — and the LELO Lily Cup is the best menstrual cup I’ve used for this.
Elongated Shape – Designed to sit comfortably higher up without slipping out of reach.
Ultra-Soft Design – Gentle enough for sensitive bodies but still holds its shape.
No-Spill Rim – A clever feature that helps prevent accidents, even if your flow is on the heavier side.
Two Sizes Available – Size A for lighter flow/no childbirth, Size B for heavier flow or post-birth.
💡 Tip: If you’ve tried shorter cups and they always feel like they’re “too low,” this is a total game-changer.
4. Best for Period Sex — LELO Ziggy Cup 2
Want to keep intimacy on the table during your period? The LELO Ziggy Cup 2 is your answer.
Flat-Fit Disc Design – Unlike traditional cups, it sits just under your cervix, leaving the vaginal canal open.
Mess-Free Intimacy – Yes, you can have sex while wearing it — no leaks, no stress.
Petal-Thin Silicone – You barely feel it’s there, but it’s strong enough to hold up to 76ml of fluid.
Easy Removal – The new ribbed tab means no digging or discomfort when it’s time to take it out.
💡 Fun fact: The Ziggy Cup 2 isn’t just for sex — it’s also great for heavy-flow days because of its high capacity.
How to Insert the Best Menstrual Cup: Step-by-Step
Wash your hands & cup — non-negotiable.
Choose a fold — C-fold or punch-down fold is most common.
Get comfortable — squat, sit, or stand with one leg raised.
Angle toward your tailbone — not straight up.
Check the seal — run a finger around the base to ensure it’s fully open.
Step 1 – Fold It
Hold the base of your LELO Lily mensural cup, press the rim flat, and fold it into a “C” shape so it’s small enough for comfortable insertion.
Step 2 – Insert It
Relax your body, tilt the cup toward your tailbone, and gently slide it in until the stem is fully inside and you can no longer feel the rim.
Step 3 – Check the Fit
Twist the cup slightly or pull it down a little to help it open. Run a finger around the edge to confirm it’s fully expanded and sealed in place.
Step 4 – Remove It
Pinch the base to release the seal, then slowly pull down using the stem. Keep it upright to avoid spills, then empty, rinse, and reinsert.
Wrapping It Up
Switching to a menstrual cup does take a little patience — there’s a learning curve, and you might have a few “trial and error” moments at first. But trust me, once you find the best menstrual cup for your body, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
It’s not just about saving money (though that’s a big bonus) or reducing waste (also amazing). It’s about feeling comfortable, confident, and free to live your life without worrying about leaks or constant bathroom breaks. For me, making the switch was one of those small changes that ended up being a total game-changer for my period. And honestly? I’m never going back.
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FAQs About the Best Menstrual Cup
Q1: How do I choose the best menstrual cup size?
Consider cervix height, flow, and birth history.
Q2: Are menstrual cups safe?
Yes — especially those made of medical-grade silicone, like LELO’s.
Q3: Can I sleep with a menstrual cup in?
Absolutely. Wear up to 12 hours safely.
Q4: How do I clean my menstrual cup?
Rinse with water after emptying, wash with mild soap, and boil for 5–10 mins at the end of your cycle.
Q5: Can I have sex while wearing a menstrual cup?
Not with most cups — but the LELO Ziggy Cup 2 is designed exactly for that.
