Removal

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.

• 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.

• 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 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.

• I bought a new DivaCup. How do I dispose of my old one?

  To dispose of your DivaCup, thoroughly wash the cup, cut it up into smaller pieces, and dispose in the trash. Most regions do not have convenient access to silicone recycling facilities. However, silicone starts out as sand and degrades over time, depending on the temperature, anaerobic activity and moisture in the landfill, which means that your DivaCup will eventually break down.