You have questions, we have answers.

• How long can I wear my DivaCup?

  The DivaCup can be worn for up to 12 consecutive hours, depending on your flow. It should be emptied, washed and rinsed a minimum of two to three times per 24-hour period.

• Can I wear the DivaCup when I _______?

  You can wear the DivaCup for any activity you participate in while menstruating, except for vaginal intercourse. This includes swimming, scuba diving, camping, sleeping, running, yoga, weightlifting, gymnastics – you name it! If you are using the correct size and have inserted the DivaCup correctly, it should not move out of place or leak no matter your activity level.

  NOTE: The DivaCup should be used during menstruation only, and should not be inserted at any other time.

• I have an IUD (intrauterine device)/NuvaRing®. Can I still use a DivaCup?

  The DivaCup is worn low at the base of the vagina and away from the cervix, which means that it should not interfere with an internal birth control device. However, please use caution when using any internal menstrual care product with an IUD, as there is the possibility that the IUD can be dislodged, depending on how recently your IUD was implanted. As with any gynecological concerns, please consult with your health care provider prior to using any kind of internal menstrual care product, including a menstrual cup.

  When using the DivaCup, it is important to carefully follow the directions in our User Guide, paying close attention to inserting the DivaCup low in the vaginal canal and breaking the seal (suction) before removal. Many of our customers use the DivaCup with an IUD or NuvaRing® simultaneously, but we recommend that you become familiar with your birth control device’s risks (such as the body expelling the IUD, etc.). Our blog post on using the DivaCup with an IUD can provide more information. 

• Is it messy?

  Using the DivaCup does require you to get a little more up close and personal with your flow, but it is clean and comfortable to use. Be sure to wash your hands well before inserting and removing, as well as after you’re finished reinserting.

• What if I can’t get it out?

  It can take some time to get the hang of insertion and removal. However, the vaginal canal is an elastic, muscular tube only about four (4) – five (5) inches (10.2 – 12.7 cm) long – there is nowhere for the DivaCup to get “lost” inside you, as the vagina does not connect to other parts of the body.

  When inserted correctly, the DivaCup should sit low at the base of the canal, away from the cervix, making it possible for you to reach the stem and grip the base to remove it. Making sure you keep your muscles relaxed for removal is key!

  Watch a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist walk you through removal here.

• How do I clean my DivaCup in a public washroom?

  When in a public washroom, some consumers are not comfortable washing their DivaCup in the sink out in the open. If this is the case, wash your hands thoroughly before entering the stall, empty the contents of your DivaCup into the toilet and simply use a dry or damp tissue to clean the cup. At the next convenient time, clean as per the User Guide instructions.

  Always wash your DivaCup using potable water that is safe to drink, including when traveling or camping.

• What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

  Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare, but serious disease caused by toxin-producing strains of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. In extremely rare cases, the strain may present itself with infection linked to the use of internal menstrual care products or as a result of surgery or burns. When exposed to the strain, TSS may affect a small number of people (including men, women and children). As we are not medically staffed, we recommend talking to your doctor with regards to any gynecological/medical concerns or conditions. Our User Guide and website include detailed instructions for use and maintenance, and it is important to use the DivaCup pursuant to these directions. Use caution to thoroughly wash your hands prior to insertion and removal and wash the cup with warm water and the DivaWash at least 2-3 times a day (every 10 – 12 hours).
  
  We recommend that you consult your physician prior to using the DivaCup if you have been previously diagnosed with TSS. Discontinue use of the DivaCup and contact your health practitioner if you experience any of the following symptoms: sudden vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, headache, sunburn-like rash, muscle aches, confusion or seizures.

• How should I get ready to use it for the first time?

  Before your first DivaCup use, submerge the DivaCup in an open pot of boiling water for 5 – 10 minutes, using a stainless steel pot that is designated to boil your DivaCup. This is a mandatory first step.

  It is not necessary to boil your DivaCup between cycles, as regular cleaning can be sufficient. For more information on proper care and cleaning, visit here.

• When should I replace my DivaCup?

  While medical grade silicone can last up to 25 years, the silicone in a DivaCup deserves special consideration because it is used in the vagina. Each body is different, and pH, acidity levels and vaginal bacteria can affect the lifespan of a DivaCup. Additionally, the care and cleaning of the cup will also play a role in how often a DivaCup should be replaced.

  With proper care and cleaning, your DivaCup can last for several years. However, if you notice any of the following characteristics in your cup, you should immediately replace it:

  • Foul odor 
  • Heavy staining 
  • A white powder residue or any flaking on the cup 
  • Any types of tears or cracks in the rim or the stem of the cup 
  • A grainy texture 
  • Sudden leaking where it has not been experienced before
• How do I know if I’ve got a real DivaCup and not a counterfeit?

  Yes, some companies are making and selling products that look like a DivaCup but aren’t DivaCup. Yes, we’re flattered. No, that doesn’t make it OK. So, we’ve made it easy for you to make sure that you have the real deal! We’re putting a holographic sticker on the side of DivaCup boxes*. This is an authentication hologram and it will help you verify that you have an original DivaCup.

  Checking the authenticity of your DivaCup is as easy as using your DivaCup, just follow these steps:

  1. Download and open the DivaCup Authentication app for iOS or Android onto your smart device. Find the holographic sticker on the side of your DivaCup box.
  2. Find the holographic sticker on the side of your DivaCup box.
  3. Hold your smart device in front of the sticker and scan (making sure the entire holographic sticker is inside the yellow frame).
  4. Verify!
  5. If your sticker doesn’t verify, no sweat, contact [email protected].

  *No silver sticker on the side of your DivaCup box? No worries, you may still have an original DivaCup. Some retailers haven’t received the new boxes with the holographic sticker yet. So, don’t throw it out, contact us at [email protected], and we’ll help you figure out if you have an authentic DivaCup.

• Are there any special circumstances where I shouldn’t use my DivaCup?

  If you have any medical concerns or conditions, please speak to your healthcare provider prior to using the DivaCup.

  There is no known increased risk of yeast infections with the use of menstrual cups. However, if you have a vaginal infection, it is best to discontinue use of the DivaCup until the infection has cleared up completely. If you used your DivaCup while you had a yeast infection, we recommend replacing the cup with a new one.

  Never use your DivaCup at the same time that you are using a topical medication in your vaginal area. The medication may compromise the silicone of your DivaCup and ruin it. If this happens, please replace the cup with a new one.

  The DivaCup should not be used for postnatal bleeding. Please contact your physician before using any internal period care product after childbirth.

  For further questions concerning vaginal infections and use of a menstrual cup, please contact a physician or healthcare provider.

• Can I have sex with the DivaCup in?

  As the DivaCup sits low in the vaginal canal, it cannot be worn during vaginal intercourse and should be removed before engaging in this kind of sexual activity.

• I have a latex allergy. Can I use the DivaCup?

  The DivaCup is made from durable, top quality, medical grade silicone that is suitable for use by those with latex allergies, because it is nitrosamine and latex-free.

• How much blood does it hold?

  Our DivaCup Model 1 holds one full ounce of menstrual flow (30 ml) and Model 2 holds just over one ounce (32 ml). DivaCup Model 0 holds just over half an ounce (20 ml) of flow. For comparison, the average regular sized tampon holds about 5 ml of menstrual flow.

  The measurement lines on your DivaCup help you keep track of your flow and report details to a healthcare provider if needed.

• Can I use my FSA/HSA to purchase a DivaCup?

  Yes! In the United States, you can use your FSA/HSA to purchase menstrual products including the DivaCup. All you need to do is pay for your DivaCup and submit your receipt as proof of purchase to your plan administrator for reimbursement.

• Can I pee/poop when I’m using my DivaCup?

  Yes. The DivaCup should not interfere with your ability to urinate or have a bowel movement.