One of the most common questions people ask when switching to menstrual cups is how often to change them. The good news is, cups can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time, making them a convenient and long-lasting alternative to reusable pads and cotton tampons.
However, the exact frequency of emptying your cup will depend on factors like your flow, cervix height, and cup capacity. In this guide, we'll break down how often you should change your menstrual cup for optimal comfort and leak protection.
The 12-Hour Rule
In general, most menstrual cup brands recommend emptying and rinsing your cup every 12 hours, or twice a day. This is because leaving a cup in for longer than 12 hours can increase the risk of leaks and bad smells, as well as potentially lead to bacterial growth.
That said, if your flow is light, you may be able to wear your cup for the full 12 hours without needing to empty it sooner. On heavier days, you might find your period cup is ready to empty sooner, such as every 6-8 hours, to prevent overflowing.
How Often Should You Change your DAME Period Cup?
Depending on your flow, you can leave the DAME Period Cup in for up to 12 hours without needing to change it - just like most other cups on the market. This means you can insert it in the morning, go about your day, and not have to think about your period until the evening.
What really sets the DAME Cup apart, though, is its innovative self-sanitising technology. The cup is made from soft, flexible medical-grade TPE and features biocide-free Saniconcentrates™ that keep it naturally clean and hygienic.
This means you don't have to boil or sanitise the cup between uses. To clean your DAME period cup, simply rinse it out, wipe it down, and it's ready to reuse. The Breathable 100% cotton DAME storage bag also helps maintain the cup's freshness between cycles. With proper care, your DAME Cup can last for years, providing you with a sustainable, hassle-free period solution.
Factors That Affect Period Cup Wear Time
How often you should change your menstrual cup depends on several individual factors, including:
Flow volume
Those with a heavy flow will need to empty their cup more often than those with a light flow.
Cervix height
If your cervix sits low, your cup may fill up faster and require more frequent changes.
Cup capacity
Larger cups can hold more fluid, allowing for longer wear times. Smaller cups may need emptying sooner.
Physical activity
Intense exercise and movement can cause your cup to shift and leak, so you may need to adjust it or empty it before and after workouts.
Pay attention to your body and your cup's fullness level to determine the ideal emptying schedule for you. Most cups have markings to help you track your flow and know when it's time for a change...
Tips for Easy Cup Changes
To make emptying your menstrual cup a breeze, follow these simple tips:
- Always wash your hands before inserting or removing your cup to prevent introducing bacteria.
- When it's time for a change, relax your pelvic floor muscles and gently bear down to help your cup slide out.
- Pinch the base of the cup to break the suction seal, then wiggle it out. Avoid pulling on the stem, as this can be uncomfortable.
- Empty the contents into the toilet (you may also want to go for a pee while your period cup is removed) then rinse your cup with clean water before reinserting. If you're in a public toilet, you can wipe it out with toilet paper or a wet wipe.
By following these tips and finding the right emptying frequency for your needs, you can enjoy mess-free, stress-free period protection with your menstrual cup.
The Cup Takeaway
So, how often should you change your menstrual cup? As a general rule, every 12 hours is a good baseline to start with. However, the exact frequency will vary based on factors like your flow, your body, and the cup capacity.
Most importantly, listen to your body and empty your cup whenever it feels full or starts to leak. With a little trial and error, you'll find the perfect changing schedule for your unique cycle.
And if you're looking for a cup designed for ultimate comfort and convenience, check out DAME's menstrual cup - it might just change your period game for good!
