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
The 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
The 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?
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?
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 am so surprised how well this works! I was expecting a few months of learning how to do it right and a few leaks but so far it has worked perfectly for 3 months use! I actually like getting my period now as it is not such a hassle. I am not worrying about toxic sanitary products in my body. I can easily see that I am healthy by seeing the colour and consistency of the blood coming from my body.
It rolls up really small… Takes me like 5 seconds to insert and check position. Perfect!
I I I was. I was a part of the Kickstarter for Intimina; I receive my Lily cup but never used it because my menstruation abruptly stopped. I thought that maybe I was in menopause so I placed this in my bathroom and had forgotten about it until yesterday. My periods are back in full force for a few months, so I decided to give the Lily cup a try. I had no problems placing this menstruation cup in place and was able to wear it for eight hours. I really forgot that I was wearing it. I had no problems removing it and I was amazed that I had no leakage and no discomfort. I wore it the next day to work and again, no issues at all with leakage or discomfort. I am in my 50’s and if I had no issues with this product, I bet other women will not have problems as well. I feel ‘free’ for the first time; I do not have to use tampons (which were uncomfortable), pads, etc. I will be recommending this product to my 30 years old daughter as well as to my two granddaughters.
I think I got it figured out. If you insert it, right when you just push it into the vaginal opening and try to pop it open, if you bear down, like your having a bowel movement, at the same time your twisting it to open it up, it will open up much easier. I still feel a bit of cramping with it, but it’s much better now that I don’t push it in as far.
This thing hurts. I had the same problem with the Diva cup because I was trying to push it in too far to avoid getting poked by the stem. I removed the stem, didn’t push the cup as far in and it made all the difference. I tried cutting off as much as I could with this one, and not pushing it in as far, but it still hurts.
First off, I need to admit that up until about a month ago, the idea of menstrual cups grossed me out big time. I’m 40, and for whatever reason, I had this hangup about it – it’s probably partly an American thing, we seem to be pretty behind the times when it comes to our bodies.
I saw a review for the Lily Cup while link-jumping on YouTube – the unique shape caught my attention, and after watching just one very detailed review, I knew I needed to try it. I read up on how to measure my cervix, and it seemed mine was pretty high, so I decided to give it a whirl. I ordered a size B.
The cup itself is incredibly smooth, soft silicone. It isn’t terribly rigid, like some of the other cups appear to be, but at the same time it feels solid and well-made. The stem is pretty long, but I am apparently cavernous, so it works for me even untrimmed.
Yesterday morning I was spotting lightly as I usually do for a day or so in the beginning, so figured I’d use it. I wasn’t leaving the house, so I didn’t worry about backup in case of leaks even though I’ve read that it can take a few days to get the hang of it. Insertion was pretty easy – it popped right open and felt secure.
Removal was also very easy as a first-timer; the silicone is very pliable and a small pinch of the base is enough to release the suction. When I took it out in the evening, I was very surprised to discover that I’d completely skipped over light spotting day and jumped straight into heavy flow, as I assumed I would have had SOME leakage on the first try.
I wore it overnight with no leaks, and used it again today when I went to the office; I wore a small pantyliner just in case, but 6 am to 4 pm and not a single trace of leakage.
I am completely sold – now I need to pack up all the disposable products taking up space in my bathroom cabinet and donate them to our local shelter or something, because I certainly won’t be using them again!
At first I used a different brand of cup from a material that is not as flexible as the Lily cup, and that seemed to increase the chance of overnight leakage, but now I am quite content.
I love this compact cup so much. I’ve been using it for a year and a half now after my sister bought me one before I went travelling. It was incredible whilst I was on the road. Saved me so much money and space. I still use it every month now and wouldn’t go back. Last month I used a tampon as my period came on early and I didn’t have the cup with me, and it irritated me so much. Honestly made my period even more awkward than normal, so I’ve learnt my lesson and will stick the one and only Lily Compact Cup!!
Wearing it, you honestly don’t feel a thing. Inserting it, takes some getting used to the knack of it but now it seriously takes me like 5 seconds. Taking it out, I have a very high cervix so finding it can be a little tricky but once again, once you get the hang of it and know what to look for, this becomes super quick and easy.
Have already recommended this to all my friends and would do so for anyone who possesses a uterus!
Cannot thank Intimina enough for the Compact! I used Lunette and found it too firm, but this cup is so squishy and I can’t feel it. Purchased it after seening Meghan Tonjes’s video review and so happy in first cycle with it.
Why are Intimina soooo far down on the list of cups?? seems not fair!
LOVE Lily Cups! totally changed the game for me! Safe, easy to use, and love the design.
I purchased the original lily cup size A. This is after trying the diva cup for a few months. The diva cup was great but a bit stiff for my taste. I also had the problem of it pushing up against my bladder and problems urinating with it in. I decided to give the lily cup a try after reading that it is a softer cup, shaped to eliminate bladder discomfort. It works perfectly! No more problems urinating, I’ve have zero leaks with the lily cup and it is just made out of excellent silicone. I wish I could rank this product better than 5 stars. The capacity for this cup is pretty similar to the diva cup, which is on the higher end of menstral cups without getting too big. Inserting and removing the lily cup is pretty similar to the diva cup. I had no problems.