MENSTRUAL CUP FAQ
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a feminine hygiene device that is inserted into the vagina during menstruation. Its purpose is to collect menstrual fluid as opposed to the absorption method used with tampons and pads. Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup is made of flexible 100% medical grade silicone.
Is it safe?
Yes! Within the medical community they are generally considered safe. When used as recommended, the risks are minimal and unlikely to occur. Menstrual cups are usually made of flexible 100% medical grade silicone making it the safest option for your period.
How old do I have to be to use a menstrual cup?
There are no age restrictions on using a menstrual cup. As long as you have a menstrual cycle and are comfortable with inserting it, you can use a menstrual cup.
Can I wear a menstrual cup after experiencing childbirth?
Yes! Menstrual cups can be used after childbirth. Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup comes in two sizes. Size large is the recommended size for women that have given birth.
How long can I wear Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup?
Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup can be worn up to 12 consecutive hours depending on your menstrual flow. Do not wear your cup for more than 12 hours, it should be removed, emptied and rinsed before reinserting.
Can I use Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup with an IUD?
Yes, you can wear your Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup with an IUD. The cup and the IUD is placed in two different parts of the body through the vaginal canal. The cup is worn low at the base away from the cervix and the IUD is inserted all the way up through the cervix and into the uterus. This means that the menstrual cup should not interfere with an internal birth control device. However, please use caution because there is always a small possibility that the IUD can be dislodged. When removing the cup it is very important to break the seal (suction) properly and adhere to all menstrual cup instructions. We do recommend consulting with your doctor prior to its use.
When should I replace my Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup?
It is said to last up to 10 years but we don't recommend keeping anything used for the vagina that long. Every woman’s body is different and the lifespan of your cup can be affected by pH levels, acidity levels, vaginal bacteria, ect. The owners of Private Party personally change ours annually. However we encourage you to use your own discretion for replacing yours. It's up to you! If you notice the following characteristics it’s time for new cup:
- Strong odor
- Severe Staining
- Changes in texture or flaking
- There are visible tears and cracks
- Sudden change in functionality such as starting to leak
Could I have an allergic reaction?
It is extremely unlikely to have an allergic reaction to silicone. Most of the reactions caused by silicones are non-allergic and non-specific. It is usually plain irritation, caused by skin's properties, skin care products and hygiene, and the combination of them all. Private Party’s Happy Hour menstrual cup is latex free making it a great option for those who have latex allergies.
What if the cup gets stuck inside of me?
Converting to a menstrual cup and becoming familiar with insertion and removal can take some time to get used to. However, don’t worry because there is no place for the cup to get lost as the vagina/uterus does not connect to other parts of the body. The vaginal canal is only about 4 to 5 inches long and is elastic. If your Private Party: Happy Hour menstrual cup is unreachable just relax your muscles and give a push like you’re urinating or having bowel movement. This will help move the cup down allowing you to reach the stem.
What activities can I participate in while wearing a menstrual cup?
You can wear your Private Party: Happy Hour menstrual cup for just about any activity that you can think of EXCEPT VAGINAL INTERCOURSE. Exercise/weightlifting, yoga, running, swimming, cycling, gymnastics, camping, literally life goes on with the menstrual cup! If you have the right size and it is inserted correctly it should not move out of place or leak regardless of activity level.
There’s usually an odor when I wear tampons or pads. Is there an odor when wearing a menstrual cup?
Menstrual blood only develops an odor when it is exposed to air. Since the menstrual cup is inserted inside the vaginal canal the blood is not exposed to air at all thus it remains fresh and odorless. Don’t believe us? After removing your full cup give it a smell and you will be pleasantly shocked at how fresh it smells!
How do I dispose of my old menstrual cup?
Silicone can be recycled multiple times. However, silicone usually has to be sent to a specialized recycling company to be properly recycled. Because of this, many users will simply throw away silicone at the end of its life (where it will sit without breaking down for centuries). We encourage our customers to recycle old cups by grinding down the old silicone into small, shredded pieces. This can be achieved with either some craft scissors or a blade. The small pieces will break down quicker over time which is better for the environment.