Multiple questions
Hey I have a few questions. I just got through my first cycle of using the Lena small menstrual cup. For the most part it went good. On my last day I had difficulty reaching my cup as it had moved up while I was sleeping. I got it out eventually but am a little nervous for using it again. I even opted to using a pad for the last bit of my period since I was super sore even hours later. I found I have a high cervix and possibly tilted (it sits off to the left side). I noticed my cup tended to sit slightly to that side and just originally thought it was how I inserted it but it always moved to the side. Between it moving to the side and sliding up after insertion it was rather difficult to reach and the stem would occasionally be bothersome when it sat to the side but I don’t want to cut it since I already have issues reaching it. I also noticed more cramping and pressure on my bladder and wondered if getting a sensitive/softer cup would be beneficial or more difficult. I am 21, sexually active but no kids and as far as exercise I do yoga and I go to the gym a couple times a week. I definitely didn’t have leaks and actually has surprisingly not much blood when I emptied it only around the 12 hour mark. Since this is only the first cycle I’m sure some of it may just get better after a few cycles but would like any advice on methods or possibly other cups to try. Thanks in advance!
Hi There!
First of all, welcome to the world of menstrual cups! I want to commend you for making the switch to reusables. It’s a big decision!
Second, thank you for including some good detail about your situation. It always helps (me) understand what might be going on.
Our cervix moves throughout our cycle. A few days before our period starts it drops a bit lower in preparation for menstruation. During the middle to the end of our period, it starts to move back up in preparation for ovulation.
Some people notice this change and others don’t.
If the small Lena was easy to reach until the middle/end of your period, you might benefit from having both the small and the large sizes or a cup in a more “V” shape. You can swap out to the size needed for ease and comfort.
I would also suggest trying the “sensitive” version or a softer cup in another brand for your cramping and bladder pressure.
Bell-shaped cups, especially those with a flared rim like the Lena Cup, tend to ride up and sit a bit higher.
“V”-shaped cups tend to have more length and don’t ride up as the rim doesn’t flare out and allow the cup to “sink” into the vaginal fornix (the space around your cervix) as much.
So again, the large Lena might have a bit more length to be able to reach the cup easier, but the flared rim may still allow the cup to migrate higher.
The cup shape is really up to you but I would normally suggest a more “V”-shaped cup for someone with a high cervix.
The cervix isn’t typically straight up and centered. Without a diagnosis from a doctor, it’s hard to tell if someone has a tilted cervix or if that’s just normal for them. Most people find that their cervix favors one side more than the other – mine favors the right. It’s also the reason why the cup should be aimed down and back towards the tailbone while inserted.
Since this is only your first cycle, I would suggest giving it another go. However, if you still find it difficult to reach the cup as well as experiencing extra pressure, you might contact Lena’s customer service. They have outstanding customer service and might be able to help you out.
If you would rather try something with more length without a flared rim and maybe something softer, here are a few cups you can check out:
In order of shortest to longest body length (not including stem)
EvaCup large
Venus Cup large (would be the longest including the stem)
Casco Cup large
Good Luck and let me know if there’s anything else I might be able to help with or if you’d like more information about any or all of these cups.
Red Herring
@redherringtv
RedHerringTV on YouTube
