I have always wanted to try a menstrual cup. The concept makes sense: save the planet, save some cash, and maybe even help yourself lessen those damn period cramps! But are menstrual cups really beneficial, or are they an awkward and gross alternative to pads and tampons? Check out my honest, unbiased review of the Pixie Cup menstrual cup along with photos, tips, and a demo video (all G-rated, of course).
I do have affiliate links in this article: however, I paid for everything myself and was not paid to write this. I promise that all opinions are my own! This is the direct link for my Pixie Cup on Amazon.
What is a Menstrual Cup, Anyway?
A menstrual cup is basically a funnel-shaped piece of silicone that is inserted into the cervix. It creates a seal in that cervical tunnel, catching menstrual fluid as it is shed from the uterus. The menstual cup holds the fluid internally until the wearer pulls it out to dump into the toilet, clean, and re-insert.
A menstrual cup should fit well so that it’s not uncomfortable, and so that it creates a complete seal within the cervix. No discomfort and no leaks!
Benefits of a Menstrual Cup
There are lots of benefits of a menstrual cup!
Firstly, think of the cost: I don’t think any woman is thrilled about having to buy pads or tampons all the time. This is a one-time purchase of less than $20.
Secondly, all those used pads and tampons have to go somewhere; using a reusable menstrual cup is also drastically reducing waste.
Menstrual cups also advertise that they can lessen a woman’s flow over time, and also potentially decrease cramps!
I’ve also found that in my personal situation, I feel a lot cleaner with using a menstrual cup. Because of the suction seal, I don’t worry about smelling bad, and I hate the feel of pads. A menstrual cup is like “Out of sight, out of mind!”
That suction seal does mean that you need to break suction before you can painlessly pull the menstrual cup out. You’ll probably hear the sound of suction breaking as you push the top side of the cup with your finger, and you’ll feel it release a bit. Pulling the cup out quickly with suction intact can cause you great pain!
Why I Like the Pixie Cup
I began using a Pixie Cup in May 2018, and in August 2018 I began using the “luxe” (smaller) size by Pixie. In thees last few months I’ve been thrilled by how much cleaner and comfortbale I feel while on my period, and now that I have the hang of cleaning out a menstrual cup I’m quite happy with the decision to switch!
I think that the design of the Pixie Cup makes a lot of sense: the wide lip around the top helps with a good seal, the little holes around the rim help create suction, and the ribbed tab at the base is easy to grab onto when you’re ready to remove it. The cup does not stain after months of use, and Pixie Cup also includes some travel wipes and a soft cloth baggie for carrying in your purse.
As far as any negatives about using the Pixie Cup, I think it’s just user-error and finding what works. The included education materials are quite helpful, especially when it comes to how to fold the cup so you can insert it. I just had to learn how to pull the cup out in a way that it wouldn’t spill, clean it without a mess, and re-insert it. Plus now I know how often I need to empty it out, since I’ve been paying attention (e.g. how many hours I wore it on which day of my cycle, and how full it was).
Like I mention in the video below, I can’t really tell if I personally have a significant decrease in menstrual cramping; however, I do suffer from severe endometriosis (severe as in “One of the worst cases I’ve ever seen” from my OB after she did my laparoscopic surgery for endo. So yeah.). So I don’t really expect a menstrual cup to help with my pain. I do feel like my flow is less, and my cycle is done in four days or so. So that’s nice to have the confidence of not needing to empty the cup all the time.
Speaking of, I found that the easiest way to clean out the menstrual cup is in the shower. That way I am standing up and can put a foot on something to easily remove the cup, I can wash it thoroughly, and put it back in without feeling like I’m making a mess.
Now that I found the size that works for me (which I go into more in depth in the video, but basically varies from menstrual cup brand to brand), I love the Pixie Cup. The smaller size fits me well and is more comfortable than any pad or tampon. I have had no leaks or issues when laying down with my toddler, swimming, or working out. I feel confident and clean, as well as grateful that I’m helping the environment and my pocketbook a little bit!
My goal now is to help other women learn that menstrual cups are not messy or gross, they’re not taboo or weird, and they sure as hell make a lot of sense.
Got a menstrual cup? Let me know which brand you like and what benefits you’ve noticed, by commenting below!
You can find Pixie Cup on Amazon, or on their website.
And here’s the demo video, as promised! See the best way to insert a menstrual cup, as well as other suggestions from a real live user.
Hi Sarah, we just came across your review and video! Thank you so much for taking time to write about your experience and share it with others.💗-Amber
Happy to help a great brand!