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
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Started using the Lily Cup 4 months ago after years of using tampons. I think it is a brilliant invention and all young women should be educated in using them.
Love this cup! Love that it is compact and comes with a cute case. I have no cramping with this cup. Its just amazing no leaks and no mess. The thing I like the most is that I cant feel it at all its so soft and comfortable I dont even know that I am on my period!
I’m only 16, but have struggled with very heavy periods for the last few years, after being told they would ‘settle down’ and ‘lighten up’. After quitting sports all together after an embarrassing moment with a tampon, my doctor suggested I try this as a new alternative. I went straight for the dark pink Lily cup for heavier flows, and after using it for the last year, I am delighted! I can confidently leave it in for at least 6 hours, and the Lily cup compact will last about 4 on my heaviest days. Finally, I took up running again, and recently ran for North England, while on my period ?Thank you intimina, you have given me back my old life, and I love it!
Love my Lily cup, i’m 26, never had a vaginal birth but have a high cervix and this cup fits me perfectly. It’s long in length, which is perfect for me as I find smaller cups like the Lunette travel too high for me to reach the stem to pull them back out.
I had a “Keeper” many years ago, which was fine but I was never really in love with. Partially because I worked in an office where the bathroom stalls to sink situation did not allow for the cup to be rinsed before re-insertion, but long hours and a long commute always put me over the naximum wear time till it should be emptied. While I loved the concept of the menstrual cup, the new to me, I seized using it after about 10 months.
Recently a YouTuber I follow showed one of those “What’s in…” videos and when she pointed to a flat pink disc commenting “my menstrual cup”, I was intrigued enough to research it. And bought it, the Lily Cup Compact A to be exact.
Finally I got to wear my Lily Cup Compact for the first time. The first insertion was a total breeze and not the ridiculous drama I expected after reading so many reviews everywhere saying getting the soft cup to open and seal took serious effort. Maybe I lucked out, but every time I emptied it since removal and reinsertion was easy.Now I honestly did not know where I fall into as to light to heavy flow, as my period has always been all over the map. Some months it is barely there but lasts longer, other months it is heavy flow but only a few days plus spotting before and after and sometimes it is a mix. On a heavy day, I did have some overflow, caught by a pantyliner, so 10 hours are not feasible on those days. Instead of buying another cup, the practical minimalist in me says I will continue using it, just empty it every 4/5 hours on those days. Nighttime was not a problem, even on those days.
I will be traveling internationally next month and likely have my period on the travel day. Despite if yhe above, I will use the Lily Cup Compact and am confident it will be no problem, even thought I may have to empty it more than normal. I have sanitizing wipes with me in the bathrooms on airports/planes anyway, so no problem.
While it has been years since my first menstrual cup run, I do remember that the “Keeper” never was this comfortable to the point that I did not feel it AT ALL. I found the insertion a bit uncomfortable sometimes, as it was a lot more rigid. I had no leaks then, but remember the feared removal problems several times throughout the entire timeframe.
I confidently give 5 stars and am determined to make this one work for me, even with a few tweaks where needed. If you ALWAYS have a heavy flow, I do have to say you should probably steer away from the compact. If you never know what you get, like me, I recommend it.
I love this product a lot it is very useful and nice that you don’t have to change a tampon every 2 hours. It is comfortable and easy to insert but a slight bit hard to take out, you will get it after some twisting it takes practice ( I started using it today). Overall it’s good for the environment and saves money!!
This was my first menstrual cup and I will never go back to tampons or pads!
Pros:
I have the compact size A (smaller size) and I can carry it around in the discreet compact case with me in case my period comes early
I can insert it when I am expecting my period before it comes to collect it without concern that I may get TSS and guard against ‘accidents!’
Even on my heavy days I can wear it at least 12 hours, on my light days I can wear it 24 hours.
Easy to clean and manage-I clean it with Dr Bronners between insertions and boil it for 10min at the end of my cycle.
No worrying about fragrances or non organic products messing up my PH. It’s nice to know how much my body produces and what goes in and comes out.
No personal odor! Tampons always have an odor, even when it’s fragrance free. Menstrual cups don’t have an odor at all.
Cons:
The first time I wore it, I didn’t check to see if it had ‘sealed’ and it leaked. Lesson learned and I haven’t had an issue since.
The first time I wore it, I tried to push it past the ’12 hour max’ on my heavist day-it got to max capacity and it leaked. I now respect the 12 hour mark on my heavy days and push it to 24 hours only on my light days. No problems since and it’s nice to not have to change on my light days.
It was a bit of a learning curve trying to insert the compactat the beginning-it sometimes collapsed while I was trying to situate it. It may have been easier with one that didn’t collapse, but watching the videos helped me figure out which fold worked best for me (C-fold) .
I didn’t like this cup at all. I felt like the whole body of the cup was too long for me and because of the design it can’t really be made any shorter. I think this goes to show that different cups do work different for different anatomies but it was a waste of money for me.
My first menstral cup was a lily cup. It’s very comfortable, the silicone is super soft and it has been East to insert and remove
I’ve had this cup for 8 months now and it is my first cup. It took some getting used to before I could get it in the right place without any leaking. But now I love this thing! I can admit that I’ve lost it up there twice… for some reason my body wanted to swallow the thing but it doesn’t do that anymore. I’ve become more aware of how far to insert it and how frequent I should take it out… and that definitely helps. I can say that I was a first a pad user, then I grew to tampons but I use to have an odor before and after my period. I can say that I HAVENT HAD ANY ODOR issues with this cup. I feel cleaner and fresher than even and I’m super happy!