Where to get it?
Lily Cup Sizes and Models
The Lily Cup is a menstrual cup that is manufactured in China. It is made of silicone and comes in 5 different sizes/models:
Quick Links
Introduction
Although the Intimina company is located in Sweden, their products – the Lily Cup, Lily Cup Compact, and Lily Cup One, are all manufactured in China. They have been in business since 2009, first offering a variety of intimate products including pleasure tools, moisturizers, washes, and Kegel exercisers before introducing a menstrual cup. Some of their cups can be found in big chain stores in the USA or worldwide at a local pharmacy, chemist, or specialty health store, as well as online ranging in price from $25 to $40 USD.
YouTube Videos
Model 1: Lily Cup Size A (Small) | Review
What’s Included
The Lily Cup size A is the smaller of the two original cups that Intimina offers. Along with the cup, you will also receive a user booklet containing several languages, and a cloth storage pouch, all packaged neatly in a hard box.
Who is it Meant For?
The Lily Cup size A is for individuals who haven’t given birth or who gave birth by cesarean. This size is also meant for those who have a moderate flow.
As a person with a medium to a high cervix, I still found the length uncomfortable at times. The base of the cup is a solid, hard piece of silicone that I could feel while sitting. Therefore, I would suggest these cups for users that have a high to very high cervix.
Special Features
Capacity – The size A holds 28 ml to the rim. This is slightly higher compared to many other small-sized cups.
Body – The size A has a slightly narrower diameter than the size B although they share the same length. The body of the Lily Cup Original is considered a long “V”-shaped cup that tapers quickly to a point at the stem. The length makes these cups easy to reach for individuals with a high cervix. However, it may be too long for those who have a medium to a low cervix.
Stem – Unlike most menstrual cups, the stem of the Lily Cup flows into the body as a solid piece. There is no defined start/stop between them. While this feature helps make this cup as smooth as possible, it can also cause problems if the individual needs to trim it. The stem is hollow and may require extra attention during cleaning.
Rim – The body of the Lily Cup Original is one of few cups that were designed to be ergonomic. The angled rim is said to form to your anatomy. This cup needs to be positioned in a specific way to work as intended with the tall rim of the cup situated towards your back. The rim is also different from most menstrual cups as it is placed on the inside of the cup as opposed to on the outside as a ‘no-spill’ feature.
Secondary Rim – There is a slight thickening of silicone towards the mouth of the cup as well as two thin “spines” that travel the length of the tall and short side. These spines add some firmness to the length and are supposed to help it open with ease.
Grip Rings – There are three thin grip rings at the tip of the stem. These are rounded to eliminate chafing while still providing a secure area to hold during removal.
Silicone Quality – While the silicone has a nice smooth, velvety feeling, some users say that the silicone is thin and cheaply made. When an avid cup user contacted several top silicone suppliers in the world, they were informed that quality silicone should not change color at any time. [When questioned about silicone turning white when stretched.] If this happens, a step was likely skipped or shortened during the curing process.
Firmness – As the Lily Cup Original has many different firmness areas, it’s hard to describe a definite overall firmness. While the rim has a thickening of silicone, two spines running the length of the cup, and the base being a solid, hard piece of silicone, the Lily Cup Original is surprisingly still considered a soft cup in the eyes of many.
Air Holes – The Lily Cup Original lacks any air holes. Some users find this a benefit as it will not leak prematurely. However, other users may find that it prohibits the cup from opening easily or that it causes the cup to create a strong suction making insertion and/or removal difficult.
Seams – Intimina did a nice job of cleaning up any flashing (seam joining) or put them in a placement that is un-noticeable. There are no visible lines to mention.
Markings – There are no markings on either the inside or outside of the cup.
Colors:
Model 2: Lily Cup Size B (Large) | Review
What’s Included
What’s IncludedThe Lily Cup size B is the larger of the two original cups that Intimina offers. Along with the cup, you will also receive a user booklet containing several languages, and a cloth storage pouch, all packaged neatly in a hard box.
Who is it Meant For
The Lily Cup size B is for individuals who have given birth or for those who have a weaker pelvic floor. It is also for users with a heavier menstrual flow.
As a person with a medium to a high cervix, I still found the length uncomfortable at times. The base of the cup is a solid, hard piece of silicone that I could feel while sitting. Therefore, I would suggest these cups for users that have a high to very high cervix.
Special Features
Capacity – The size B holds approximately 32 ml to the rim. That’s only about 4 ml more than the size A. While this is not considered a high capacity, individuals with a moderate flow might be able to use it for the full suggested hours.
Body – The size B has a slightly wider diameter than the size A for a difference of 4 mm, although they share the same length. The body of the Lily Cup Original is considered a long “V”-shaped cup that tapers quickly to a point at the stem. The length makes these cups easy to reach for individuals with a high cervix. However, it may be too long for those who have a medium to a low cervix.
Stem – Unlike most menstrual cups, the stem of the Lily Cup flows into the body as a solid piece. There is no defined start/stop between them. While this feature helps make this cup as smooth as possible, it can also cause problems if the individual needs to trim it. The stem is hollow and may require extra attention during cleaning.
Rim – The body of the Lily Cup Original is one of few cups that were designed to be ergonomic. The angled rim is said to form to your anatomy. This cup needs to be positioned in a specific way to work as intended with the tall rim of the cup situated towards your back. The rim is also different from most menstrual cups as it is placed on the inside of the cup as opposed to on the outside as a ‘no-spill’ feature.
Secondary Rim – There is a slight thickening of silicone towards the mouth of the cup as well as two thin “spines” that travel the length of the tall and short side. These spines add some firmness to the length and are supposed to help it open with ease.
Grip Rings – There are three thin grip rings at the tip of the stem. These are rounded to eliminate chafing while still providing a secure area to hold during removal.
Silicone Quality – While the silicone has a nice smooth, velvety feeling, some users say that the silicone is thin and cheaply made. When an avid cup user contacted several top silicone suppliers in the world, they were informed that quality silicone should not change color at any time. [When questioned about silicone turning white when stretched.] If this happens, a step was likely skipped or shortened during the curing process.
Firmness – As the Lily Cup Original has many different firmness areas, it’s hard to describe a definite overall firmness. While the rim has a thickening of silicone, two spines running the length of the cup, and the base being a solid, hard piece of silicone, the Lily Cup Original is surprisingly still considered a soft cup in the eyes of many.
Air Holes – The Lily Cup Original lacks any air holes. Some users find this a benefit as it will not leak prematurely. However, other users may find that it prohibits the cup from opening easily or that it causes the cup to create a strong suction making insertion and/or removal difficult.
Seams – Intimina did a nice job of cleaning up any flashing (seam joining) or put them in a placement that is un-noticeable. There are no visible lines to mention.
Markings – There are no markings on either the inside or outside of the cup.
Colors:
Model 3: Lily Cup ‘Compact’ size A (small) | Review
What’s Included
What’s IncludedThe Lily Cup Compact size A is the smaller of the two compact cups that Intimina offers. Along with the cup, you will also receive a user booklet containing several languages, and a circular, hard plastic, clamshell case, all packaged neatly in a hard box.
Who is it Meant For?
The Lily Cup Compact size A is for individuals who have not given birth, have given birth by cesarean, or have a light menstrual flow.
As a person with a medium to a high cervix, I found the Lily Cup Compact size A too small for my liking. While I found it easier to open than the original Lily Cups, the compact was harder to reach during removal. It also didn’t have the capacity that I needed for a heavier flow.
Special Features
Capacity – The size A holds 18 ml to the air holes and 20 ml to the rim. The capacity is slightly less in comparison to other small-sized cups.
Body – The size A has a slightly narrower diameter than the size B although they share the same length. The body of the Lily Cup Compact collapses into a thin disc. Therefore, it has folding areas to help it collapse into itself. People have described it as the same concept as a collapsible pill or travel drinking cup.
Stem – The stem is hollow which makes it soft and comfortable to use without trimming. However, because it is hollow, it may require extra attention during cleaning. It also features four rings for a secure grip during removal.
Rim – A thicker band of silicone creates the upper rim. Although it is slightly firmer than the body of the cup, many users still find it very soft which results in a difficult opening.
Secondary Rim – While secondary rims typically add some extra firmness to the mouth of the cup for easy opening, this one is soft enough that the user may have difficulties getting it to expand.
Grip Rings – There are no grip rings at the base of the Lily Cup Compact besides the four positioned on the stem.
Silicone Quality – While the silicone has a nice smooth, velvety feeling, some users say that the silicone is thin and cheaply made. When an avid cup user contacted several top silicone suppliers in the world, they were informed that quality silicone should not change color at any time. [When questioned about silicone turning white when stretched.] If this happens, a step was likely skipped or shortened during the curing process.
Firmness – Since this cup has areas that collapse and fold for the compact aspect, it’s considered a soft or even a very soft cup. Some users find it difficult to open and push into position because it pre-maturely collapses with the pressure of a finger.
Air Holes – The Lily Cup Compact has four small air holes. Some users find this a benefit as it is less likely to leak prematurely. However, other users may find that it prohibits the cup from opening easily or that it causes the cup to create a strong suction making insertion and/or removal difficult.
Seams – Intimina did a nice job of cleaning up any flashing (seam joining). The flash on the side of the rim is barely detectable.
Markings – There are no markings on either the inside or outside of the cup.
Colors:
Model 4: Lily Cup ‘Compact’ Size B (Large) | Review
What’s Included?
What’s Included?The Lily Cup Compact size B is the larger of the two compact cups that Intimina offers. Along with the cup, you will also receive a user booklet containing several languages, and a circular, hard plastic, clamshell case, all packaged neatly in a hard box.
Who is it Meant For?
The Lily Cup Compact size B is recommended for individuals who have given birth, those who have a weaker pelvic floor, and those with a medium flow.
As a person with a medium to a high cervix, I found the Lily Cup Compact size B too small for my liking. While I found it easier to open than the original Lily Cups, the compact was harder to reach during removal. It also didn’t have the capacity that I needed for a heavier flow.
Special Features
Capacity – The size B holds 23 ml to the air holes and 25 ml to the rim. The capacity is slightly less in comparison to other large-sized cups.
Body – The size B has a slightly wider diameter than the size B by 3 mm although they share the same length. The body of the Lily Cup Compact collapses into a thin disc. Therefore, it has folding areas to help it collapse into itself. People have described it as the same concept as a collapsible pill or travel drinking cup.
Stem – The stem is hollow which makes it soft and comfortable to use without trimming. However, because it is hollow, it may require extra attention during cleaning. It also features four rings for a secure grip during removal.
Rim – A thicker band of silicone creates the upper rim. Although it is slightly firmer than the body of the cup, many users still find it very soft which results in a difficult opening.
Secondary Rim – While secondary rims typically add some extra firmness to the mouth of the cup for easy opening, this one is soft enough that the user may have difficulties getting it to expand.
Grip Rings – There are no grip rings at the base of the Lily Cup Compact besides the four positioned on the stem.
Silicone Quality – While the silicone has a nice smooth, velvety feeling, some users say that the silicone is thin and cheaply made. When an avid cup user contacted several top silicone suppliers in the world, they were informed that quality silicone should not change color at any time. [When questioned about silicone turning white when stretched.] If this happens, a step was likely skipped or shortened during the curing process.
Firmness – Since this cup has areas that collapse and fold for the compact aspect, it’s considered a soft or even a very soft cup. Some users find it difficult to open and push into position because it pre-maturely collapses with the pressure of a finger.
Air Holes – The Lily Cup Compact has four small air holes. Some users find this a benefit as it is less likely to leak prematurely. However, other users may find that it prohibits the cup from opening easily or that it causes the cup to create a strong suction making insertion and/or removal difficult.
Seams – Intimina did a nice job of cleaning up any flashing (seam joining). The flash on the side of the rim is barely detectable.
Markings – There are no markings on either the inside or outside of the cup.
Colors:
Model 5: Lily Cup ‘One’ | Review
What’s Included?
What’s Included?The Lily Cup One is the smallest cup that Intimina has to offer. Along with the cup, you will also receive a user booklet containing several languages, and a circular, hard plastic, clamshell case, all packaged neatly in a hard box.
Who is it Meant For?
The Lily Cup One was created for first-time menstrual cup users.
As an avid menstrual cup user with a medium to a high cervix, I found the Lily Cup One too small for my liking. While I found it easier to open than the original Lily Cups and the Compact versions, the Lily Cup One was still hard to reach during removal. It also didn’t have the capacity that I needed for a heavier flow.
Special Features
Capacity – Lily Cup One holds approximately 20 ml to the air holes and 23 ml to the rim. The capacity is slightly less in comparison to other small-sized cups.
Body – Lily Cup One has a narrower diameter than the Lily Cup Compact size A (small) by 3 mm, and is also shorter by almost 10 mm. The body of the Lily Cup Compact collapses into a thin disc. Therefore, it has folding areas to help it collapse into itself. People have described it as the same concept as a collapsible pill or travel drinking cup. Unlike the Lily Cup Compacts, each collapsing area is rounded.
Stem – The stem is a small flat tab with a loop attached. This loop was designed to make it easier for first-timers to remove the cup.
Rim – The double rim design is supposed to create a leak-proof rim.
Grip Rings – There are three thin grip rings at the base of the cup, as well as three curved lines on the tab area of the stem.
Silicone Quality – While the silicone has a nice smooth, velvety feeling, some users say that the silicone is thin and cheaply made. When an avid cup user contacted several top silicone suppliers in the world, they were informed that quality silicone should not change color at any time. [When questioned about silicone turning white when stretched.] If this happens, a step was likely skipped or shortened during the curing process.
Firmness – Since this cup has areas that collapse and fold for the compact aspect, it’s considered a soft cup. However, the narrow diameter makes it slightly firmer than the Compact version. Some users find it difficult to push into position because it pre-maturely collapses with the pressure of a finger.
air holes – The Lily Cup One has four very small air holes. Some users find this a benefit as it is less likely to leak prematurely. However, other users may find that it prohibits the cup from opening easily or that it causes the cup to create a strong suction making insertion and/or removal difficult.
Seams – Intimina did a nice job of cleaning up any flashing (seam joining). The flash on the side of the rim is barely detectable.
Markings – There are no markings on either the inside or outside of the cup.
Colors:
Detailed User Manual
Fold – Hold the base of your cup, flatten the opening and fold in half.
Insert – Angle your cup towards your tailbone and insert it upwards until the removal loop is inside.
Placement – Rotate the cup in both directions or pull it slightly down.
Removal – Grab the removal loop and softly squeeze the base to release the seal. Gently pull the removal loop and the cup is out.
The Intimina website has more detailed instructions on the whole Lily Cup Line including how to safely trim the stems, how to collapse the cups, illustrations, additional folds, cup placement, and cleaning and storage.
For information on these and more, visit the Intimina User Manual in English or the Intimina User Manual in Chinese.
Customer Service
Email – customercare@intimina.com (closed on the weekend)
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram – @Intimina
Pinterest – www.pinterest.com/intimina/
There are mixed feelings about customer service and the information that they gave floating around the internet. The most popular controversy surfaced when a well-known, hardcore vegan YouTuber was told that the Lily Cup was 100% vegan. While another well-known, also hardcore vegan YouTuber had an email directly from the Intimina Company stating that their cup was not vegan.
Users and potential users, vegan and non-vegan alike, felt betrayed. Many leaving comments that they [Intimina] can’t be trusted and that they [users] will no longer buy or use items made or sold by the company.
Where to Buy The Lily Cup?
Alternatives to Lily Cup
Although there are no other cups that come close to the same combination of shape and length of the Original Lily Cup, users have turned to some of the following as alternatives:
Venus Cup – The large Venus Cup measures 71 mm at total length to the 78 mm of the original Lily Cup. However, the large Venus Cup can hold 47 ml to the top of the rim while the large Lily Cup only holds 32 ml.
Juju Cup Model 3 – This high cervix cup measures 78 mm at total length, which is the same as the Lily Cup. However, it only holds 27 ml at full capacity. This cup has a very narrow diameter which may result in a difficult placement or cause the cup to slide down for some users.
Yuuki Large – This cup is 74 mm in total length which is only 4 mm less than the Lily Cup. It can hold slightly more with the capacity of 38 ml to the top off the rim. The Yuuki Cup is offered in three different firmness levels to suit the users’ needs.
Summary
It seems that people either love the Lily Cup or hate it. The original was very popular for the individuals with a high to a very high cervix because of the length. However, all versions of the Lily Cup have been reported to be too long for many who have a low cervix. Troubles with the cup creating a strong suction has been a common issue. Either because there are no air holes or that they are very small. While the silicone feels nice, the quality may be questionable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is a Lily Cup?
The Lily Cups range from $25 – 40 USD depending on which cup you are interested in.
How do Lily Cups work?
All of the Lily Cups sit inside of the vaginal canal under the cervix to collect menstrual flow.
Can you swim with a Lily Cup?
You can do just about any activity while using each of the Lily Cups, except for having penetrative intercourse.
How much blood does a lily Cup hold?
Depending on which version and size, the Lily Cup holds at least 18 ml to the air holes and at most 32 ml to the top of the rim.
How do you insert an Intimina Lily Cup?
Hold your cup upright. Fold and firmly hold the body of your cup.
Sit in a slight squatting position and relax your vaginal muscles.
Angle your cup towards your tailbone and insert it upwards until the stem is inside.
If using the Lily Cup Original, the tall rim of the cup should be situated towards your back.
Make sure the top of the cup is completely open.
Gently squeeze the base of the cup to open it inside of your body.
What is a Intimina Lily Cup?
The Lily Cup, made by the Intimina Company, is a reusable menstrual product that collects your menstrual flow.
Red Herring has been sharing her experience and knowledge of menstrual cups on YouTube since 2015. She has worked on or with several menstrual cup companies but chooses not to be credited.
"I want to help people find the right menstrualcup for their situation.Not pressure them to buy a menstrual cup [that I might have helped with] for the sake of sales."
- 21 Concerns You May Have Before Getting a Menstrual Cup - July 5, 2021
- FemaCup Menstrual cup – Full Review - March 14, 2021
- HannahCup Menstrual Cup – Full Review - March 14, 2021
I bought the lily cup after discovering that I have a high cervix. I read about high cervix cups and did some quizzes that recommended this cup. Previously, I used the saalt regular that I bought on whim without checking my cervix height and it was kind of difficult removing it. The lily cup is so much easier to remove, although figuring out if it’s open can be a bit challenging. In spite of this, it hasn’t leaked so far and it’s comfortable. I’ll definitely continue using it.
I have been using the Lily Cup Size A for 4 years. I have used Me Luna Classic before but it kept moving up in my vagina and it was hard to take it out. I do not have the same problem with this product anymore.
Due to its very soft texture, it takes quite some time for me to learn how to insert correctly without leak; but once learnt how to, I can dance and swim without any problem.
This cup was a complete waste of money for me I have been trying to get it to work for over 7 months and am about to throw it out. I have tried everything possible to get this cup to open and work for me but it always just ends up a squished collapsed mess inside my body which causes me pain trying to leave it in. Only thing I can think of is my vagina is too strong for the up and I need something firmer for it to be able to pop open. Really disappointing as I researched for a long time before purchasing lily cup only to be very disappointed.
SUPER uncomfortable, stem sticks out and pokes/rubes. Trimmed it off then it painfully stabbed. Can feel it all the time, moves all over when you move. Couldn’t handle wearing it anymore. That said it did work, didn’t leak.
Absolute best cup for me. I’ve used the moon cup for years until it was stolen along with my bag. Got a selena cup but was disappointed by it so I got a lily cup classic. This is the best so far. It’s easier to insert and take out than both the other two. It works perfectly the first time I used it. No trouble getting it to pop open at all. It’s thinner so was more comfortable to use. I’m quite athletic and the Selena cup didn’t stay still but got flipped due to being too soft. This one is soft but is longer so it didn’t flip.
A perfect all in one cup if you’re a zero waste and minimalistic person. The collapsibility is what attracted me but I was surprised to know it’s also much easier to use than other cups as the loop makes it super easy to remove ( which was difficult with other stem cups). It’s the reason why I love menstrual cups now. It’s silicon is exceptionally high quality and softer. must try!
Leaks, absolutely useless, leaked everywhere. I complained about the product and they offer no warranty. Buy a mooncup instead – they actually work.
My first cup was the mooncup UK and the hard rim really hurt me. Even after a year of trying the mooncup did not work for me. I read some reviews online and found this cup. I bought the classis one (Lily cup, that doesn’t collapse). It has been great! I’ve had it for a few years now and it is still in perfect shape! I really like the soft feeling of the silicone, the shape feels so much better on my body, and the insertion is so easy with this cup! Because it is a little longer than most cups it is easy to take out as well, the stem reaches far enough down to easily grab it and empty it. Because of the way the rim is designed there is no spilling anymore either when changing the cup. I’ve never had any problems with leakages with this cup. After the mooncup this was really a breeze to use! I really love this cup and recommend it to everyone!
I first bought a cup with a rim but it was excruciatingly painful to insert into my vagina. Honestly, I was not able to put it half in even. I have sensitive skin, so maybe I have a sensitive vagina too. I have never had sex, but I have used regular sized tampons. I have a chronic illness which makes a lot of my muscles tense and I have a lot of inflammation in my body and so it is more sensitive and I feel more pain. This might be the reason why it was so hard for me to insert the normal kind of menstrual cup. My vagina might be kinda tight because of surrounding muscles being tight, expressing itself in regular cramps. Luckily, I was able to insert the Lily cup without experiencing the kind of pain that made me sweat and cry. Still a little painful, but I enjoy using it especially in the night since I don´t have to wake up after 8 hours to change my tampons, and I don´t have to have that diaper situation going on either. I am currently just using one pad at night because I am still getting used to inserting it in a way that it does not leak. Have only had two wrong insertions after 6 times using it. And it feels good to know I am helping save the planet and my own finances. Giving it full score because I was so happy I found a cup that worked for me because I really saw the benefit of menstrual cups and thought I was doomed to never access this life of greater freedom, simplicity and less worry.
The lily cup is THE WORST CUP. I thought because I was a first time user it was ok that the cup was leaking. I didn’t know what I was doing and it happens to everyone. I’ve been using the lily cup for almost a year now and it’s still awful. When I get up, there’s blood everywhere. It’s constantly leaking and it’s definitely suctioned to my cervical opening. I always have to wear a pad while using the cup because it never stops leaking. Today I finally had enough when I when to use the bathroom, coughed, and the cup fell out and into the toilet. I didn’t even bother to get it out. I flushed it. The lily cup was the worst experience of a menstrual cup. I would never recommend it to anyone.