Diva Cup [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

doc

01-08-2005, 05:28 AM

I learned about the diva cup on this forum a month or so ago. I bought it and tried it and I LOVE it. For anyone who hasn't tried it yet, it's AMAZING. You'll never use tampons again.
I admit the first few times you use it- it's weird and tricky. But once you get the hang of it, it is easier and more comfortable and cleaner than anything else out there. Plus you never need to bring supplies with you. So if you're going on a long trip and have your period-no problem.
You all must think I have stock in the company but I swear I don't. I am a new user and complete convert.
Anyone else with great experience like mine?

nuthatch

01-09-2005, 02:17 PM

I haven't tried it yet, just those Instead things. I don't know if it's my aging parts to blame, but it's definitely not leak-proof. Has anyone used both of them and found the diva to be more leak-proof?

CorsairMac

01-10-2005, 12:50 PM

nuthatch - I use Instead also and the only days I have to change it frequently are the first few - and I'm changing it a Lot less than I was tampons. I agree with Doc it was weird and tricky the first few times - it could be you don't have it "seated" right? I'm only guessing coz that was my problem the first few times I used it too. The best line I read was: remember the first few times we tried tampons - it took a while to get that right too! :)
Just as a footnote: because of all the research I did on the Diva Cup - I do "reuse" the Instead cup - only 1 per cycle but I rinse it really well with hot water, reuse it and toss it when my cycle is done.

doc

01-10-2005, 01:15 PM

nuthatch- I never ever leak. :) They say only change it every 12 hours, but on my one heavy day I change it every 6 - but that's just cuz I'm nervous. Plus, since it's reusable for a long long time, you don't need to buy anything, pack anything or toss anything into the already bulging american landfills. I never tried instead so I can't give a comparison.

nuthatch

01-10-2005, 04:03 PM

Thanks for the replies! It sounds like the Diva is worth a try - hopefully I can get the hang of it and peri-menopause won't overwhelm it!

Irulan

01-10-2005, 04:05 PM

doc, how heavy is "heavy" ? I'm in serious 24 hour flood and then I'm done mode these days... I'm really skeptical of trying anything new.

Irulan

annie

01-10-2005, 05:22 PM

Serious 24-hour flood and done mode? I can relate to that! Or else its trickle for 2 weeks then nothing for two months. Very weird.

Never tried the Diva cup but gave Instead quite a few tries. I don't think that I am seating it incorrectly. No matter what I do, it won't stay in and it leaks. Leaks badly, in fact. So I gave up. It does say in the instructions that it does NOT work for everyone. I guess I am one of the odd ones........ I can't imagine that the Diva, or anything else along the same lines, would fit any better. Anyone know?

annie

yellow

01-10-2005, 05:54 PM

MightyMitre

01-11-2005, 03:48 AM

I use the Keeper which, as far as I can make out is the same as the Diva, but is made out of natural rubber and is meant to last for at least 10 years. I've been using it for about 2 and half years and apart from one 'incident' when I hadn't emptied it I've never suffered from any major leaks.

I must admit I find it a bit more tricky than tampons. Sometimes I just don't seem to be able to get it right. You also need to have a wash basin handy for hand washing and emptying, where as with tampons, if you use the applictor type you can pretty much get away with no basin if you really have to. eg if you're in the middle of a wood.

But the pro's certainly outweigh the con's. I used to hate swimming and going to the beach as I was convinced the tampon string would escape. Like the others have said, you don't have to carry spares, you don't have to change so often and you can even use it to pre-empt your period if you're expecting on the day of a big ride etc.

doc

01-11-2005, 04:09 AM

Yellow- Let me know how it goes. I'm just so thrilled I had to share.

Annie-I never used instead, but knowing diva I can't imagine how it would not work. It pops open inside and blocks/catches everything. But it can be placed wrong. So maybe that's been the problem. With diva, the lower in the vagina you place it the better. Of course not so low that you can feel it.

Mightymire - My sister and I decided to experiment and see the difference between the keeper and the diva. She bought both. The keeper has a longer "stick" at the bottom which she found annoying and didn't need for removal. I'm sure others might find the longer stick helpful. If you look at the pictures online you can see that difference. Plus the cup part of the keeper is slightly smaller. Otherwise I agree, they are essentially the same.

As for needing a sink. That part is true but I learned a neat trick from this TE site. If you do not have access to any washing facility then pee on your hand and diva cup after you remove it. Then reuse it. Wash it with water the next time you can. Remember urine is sterile (unless you're sick). If you can't stand that thought, and have no access to a sink it sure can be messy.

doc

01-11-2005, 04:19 AM

Originally posted by Irulan
doc, how heavy is "heavy" ? I'm in serious 24 hour flood and then I'm done mode these days... I'm really skeptical of trying anything new.

Irulan

Hmmm. Hard to say of course, but I doubt I'm that heavy. I'll have a day where I would change tampons every 2 hours and still leak sometimes.

MightyMitre

01-11-2005, 06:38 AM

The keeper has a longer "stick" at the bottom which she found annoying and didn't need for removal
Doc
Yes - not quite sure why it comes with such a long stick. They suggest you trim it down to length with a sharp pair of scissors but I cut mine off altogether as I don't need it either.

If you do not have access to any washing facility then pee on your hand and diva cup after you remove it.

Doc

Hee-hee. Think that might have been me on a previous thread!Thanks for reminding me. Trouble is - I can't always pee on demand:)

CorsairMac

01-11-2005, 08:43 AM

They make "travel" wipes that are in a small pack - about the size of a jersey pocket. You could always just throw one of those in a pocket if you think you might need it. I chose to go with the Instead product coz - like most of us it sounds - my periods are very sporadic and inconsistent. I'm not sure how much longer I"ll be bleeding and didn't want to spend the money for the Keeper/Diva if its only going to be another 6-12 mnths. Of course - with my luck it'll be another 10 yrs and by the time I decide to spend the money - I'll stop! :rolleyes: Also, if I remember correctly - the Keeper is a rubber/latex product and the Diva is silicon for anyone with latex allergies! But I'm with Doc - I learned about all 3 products here and darn it - wish I had known about them earlier!...the things our mothers won't tell us eh?! LOL

MightyMitre

01-13-2005, 04:02 AM

Just ordered a free trial sample of the Instead soft cup. Although I use the Keeper I'm always open to try new products. That's how I came to be using the Keeper in the first place.

The Keeper is good but the rubber is very firm and I like the idea of the softness of the Instead cup. Thought I should give it a try. You can't actually buy it in the UK so I've ordered it off the Belgium version of the website. Figured the p&p would be cheaper than from the US. :)

nuthatch

01-13-2005, 07:00 AM

MightyMitre, let us know how the two compare to each other after you've given Instead a try.

sandra b

01-20-2005, 04:12 PM

I have used instead for several years-and have problems with leaking if I don't get it seated correctly.

If you ever used a diaphram for BC, it should seat like that, over the cervix.

I have to empty it several times the first day, but much after that.

What are the web sites for the keeper and the diva?

MightyMitre

01-21-2005, 03:58 AM

Ok - reporting back from my field studies. I received my free sample of the Instead Soft Cup and here's my report:

Insertion - not too tricky, since I've been using the keeper for a few years and it was very comfortable. I also watched a video on the Instead website which was very helpful.

Performance - erm. I only tried it at the start of my period and I didn't get any leaks, but ... when I went to the toilet it literally poured out as I sat there!! Not sure this is meant to happen, especially if I hadn't been sitting on the toilet, so it put me off a little. I only had 2 in the free sample pack so didn't really get a chance to experiment. Might splash out on a whole pack and give it another go.

Summary - mixed. Needs further trials for a conclusive result.

doc

01-21-2005, 04:05 AM

Thanks for the update. Always looking for the new and improved. I think your main compaint with the keeper was the stiffness. Is instead better? Diva is much softer than the keeper. That I know for sure.

doc

01-21-2005, 04:07 AM

sandra b
the websites are keeper.com and diva.com conveniently enough

MightyMitre

01-21-2005, 04:55 AM

Thanks Doc. Yes - the Keeper is very stiff and that's what appealed about the Soft Cup. Apart from that, I don't really have any complaints about the keeper, but like you, I'm always on the look out for alternative.

Maybe I should give the Diva Cup a try, especially if it's softer. I must admit, the natural rubber colour of the Keeper does give it a bit of a medieval look .:p

annie

01-21-2005, 05:30 AM

Originally posted by sandra b
I have used instead for several years-and have problems with leaking if I don't get it seated correctly.

If you ever used a diaphram for BC, it should seat like that, over the cervix.

I have to empty it several times the first day, but much after that.

I THINK I am inserting Instead correctly. I know where it needs to go and put it there. But it doesn't stay seated, it slides forward and then I have a disaster on my hands - literally! :) :p I used a diaphram for BC many years ago.........Hmmmmmm, I wonder if that wasn't fitting quite correctly, too. We call my baby (he's 17 now) my diaphram baby. With good reason. Wouldn't give him back for anything, but news of his impending arrival was a shocker all those years ago. :eek: I may give Instead one more try but if I can't get it to work, I'll have to stay with tampons. Does anyone think Keeper or Diva Cup would be different enough from Instead to be worth sending for? I can buy Instead at the corner drugstore, much easier that way.

annie

nuthatch

01-21-2005, 05:46 AM

Performance - erm.

This is exactly what happened to me with Instead. Sitting, moving, squatting (!) were all risky maneuvers, and wearing a "security" pad really defeats the purpose. It was only successful when I was sleeping and my flow wasn't heavy.

I THINK I am inserting Instead correctly. I know where it needs to go and put it there. But it doesn't stay seated, it slides forward and then I have a disaster on my hands - literally!

I know I'm inserting it correctly. I can't get it any further up there! And it does come sliding back down at the least excuse. I guess this is just due to the "lay of the land" down there - 10+ pound baby in my history!

Thanks, MM, for the testing!

doc

01-21-2005, 06:01 AM

Annie
You should ask MM who's tried both the keeper and instead, but I think they are very different. Also, see her post above. I like diva better than keeper (my sister has both and we compared) The web sites explain the products really well. They do NOT sit high next to the cervix. In fact, the lower the better. The main trick is to spin after insertion to make sure it's open.

MightyMitre

01-21-2005, 09:01 AM

Annie -

The only time I ever had a leak with the Keeper in nearly 3 years use was when my flow was heavier than expected and I just left it too long. Saying that, I do admit I wear a slim pad over night as well, just in case, but 9 times out of 10 I don't really need to.

I thought about trying Instead not really because I was unhappy with the keeper, but just to keep my options open.

If it was a toss up between Instead or tampons I think I probably would go with tampons, based on my recent experience, but if you can afford it I'd seriously give the Divacup or Keeper a whirl.
You can leave it for longer, it's reusable so you don't need spares and you don't have to spend a fortune on products each month.

Doc mentioned the Divacup is softer - the Keeper is natural rubber and quite stiff but does the job very well. It's true, you need to make sure it opens up properly but it doesn't take long to get the hang of it. It's easier to position than Instead - it's either right or it's not and you'll know if it's not.

Also - TOP TIP if you've just washed it and it's warm you may find the suction stops it from opening properly. Try running it under the cold tap to cool it down before using - I've found this works very well.

Hope this helps.

Biking Kitsune

01-23-2005, 11:32 PM

I've also found that there's a possibility one may need the larger size regardless of childbirth... The 'keeper_cup' forum on Livejournal had several ladies saying women with well endowed husbands may need the larger size, because sometimes their pelvic floor muscles weren't as tight as others... just a thought.
I'm experiencing leakage, too, and am trying out the Diva size 1 because the Keeper gave me a latex allergy... I may switch, though, if I'm still leaking... for the reason stated above. =P

doc

01-24-2005, 04:05 AM

I leaked the one time I didn't rotate the diva to make sure it was open. Are you careful to open the diva after insertion? Folded it definitely leaks! I have kids, but size #2 just aint that big. I bet you're right about certain women needing a larger size for reasons other than childbirth.

emily_in_nc

01-24-2005, 04:46 AM

Okay, so after reading this thread, I decided to re-try the Keeper yesterday. I had bought one years ago, tried it for a few months, had some leakage problems and found it uncomfortable to insert and remove (messy too), so put it away in a drawer and hadn't used it for years.

Got brave last night (and was out of Super tampons), so tried it again. Read all the tips here and the ones that came with it. However, I still had a bad experience. It hurt going in, I could feel it inside me, it leaked (even though it seemed to be open inside), and it hurt like hell coming out. Ouch! I would think the softer Diva would be better in that regard. The Keeper is pretty stiff rubber and to me is painful. And it was awfully messy once again. Don't think I'll be trying that one again!

Emily

annie

01-24-2005, 07:27 PM

MM,

Thanks for the advice! I may give the Keeper a try. I am so tired of tampons and leaking and really would just like the whole thing to end!! Menopause sounds better and better! ;)

A question for those who talked about 24-48 hrs. of flood-like flows -- I am into day three of this! The longest I've had before was about 36 hrs. And it is very heavy bleeding for me - If I leave a tampon in for two hours, I've had blood dripping down my legs. This is weird. I can literally feel it gush out sometimes. I am wondering how long I should give it to slow down or if I should call my doc? I feel fine. No cramps, no energy loss. I figure another day or two before I get concerned, but if anyone has any advice, I'm listening! Tons of experience in all sorts of things on these boards. Feels like being with a group of women friends, but a really biiiiiiiiiiig group. :cool:
Thanks!

annie

Irulan

01-25-2005, 09:35 AM

For days like that I go with super duper pads, with wings and plastic backing. And with tampons if needed. I feel like pads are 'safer", at leaast against leaks.

~I.

nuthatch

01-25-2005, 01:34 PM

Annie, I think this is pretty typical for those of us approaching menopause. I've had lots of friends and relatives tell me the "running like a river" story! If you aren't feeling faint or weak, I bet it's okay. I've had a couple of friends that are so heavy that they actually pass out and they went on to have hysterectomies but I think that's pretty unusual. It never hurts to let your doc know what's going on and see if they have any advice!

CorsairMac

01-25-2005, 02:48 PM

what nuthatch said. I'm what they call perimenopausal (read I'm Almost there!) and the last year has been very interesting to say the least. Right now I haven't had a period in 6 wks, but between Aug and Nov it wasn't unusual for me to have a period every 2 wks. Some heavy, some a week long, some very, Very light, some only 2 days. I also experienced what you're talking about: waking up in the middle of the night and everything is ruined and my legs are a mess. Me who had Never had anything like that before. Depending on your age - this could just be the beginning of the change for you. But as Nuthatch said...it wouldn't hurt to check with your doc if you continue to be concerned.

annie

01-25-2005, 07:02 PM

Irulan, Nuthatch, Corsair,

Thank you!!! I wasn't TOO concerned, but still, it was more than I'd ever experienced before so I did wonder........ I'm on day 4 now (close to 96 hrs. of what seemed like hemorraghing to me) and it is finally slowing down. I was wearing pads and tampons and black pants and changing every two hours, at the least. And not keeping up. Now, finally, it's under control. And, yes, I am definitely of an age where the "change" should be upon me. Obviously, it is! So I guess I will expect weird things from here on out and accept it as a new stage of life. I am fine with that. As long as it is "normal" for me and simply something my body needs to do as I transition into the next era, bring it on! I'm ready. Sorta a milestone year coming up for me soon. Very soon. I have a birthday in 4 days. I turn 50 YEARS on Jan. 29. I am excited about it. I am proud to be that far. I would rather be 50 than the alternative. :D Yada, yada, yada........... Too many quotes, platitudes, etc. I won't go into them. Just believe me, ladies, those of you who aren't there yet, keep riding your bikes!!!!! Keep living your life. It is a good place to be. I've got an entire poster filled with inspirational quotes that I will have hanging up on Saturday. We are having a celebration/party on Saturday. If any of you are in Iowa that day, let me know! You're invited!

annie

nuthatch

01-26-2005, 03:29 AM

Happy birthday, Annie! You inspire us all!

emily_in_nc

01-26-2005, 09:49 AM

Happy Birthday Annie,

As one who is going-on-44 and kicking and screaming all the way, your words give me hope and inspiration.

Hope your day is a brilliant celebration!

Emily

CorsairMac

01-28-2005, 01:08 PM

Happy Birthday Annie-girl! Gosh but I hope you have a GrandWonderFun Day! I threw myself a birthday party when I turned 40 (I had just gone thru a divorce and moved Cleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeear across the US so most of my new friends didn't know it was my birthday or my age!) I had a blast! I plan on the doing the same thing for my 50th!

By the way - theres a book called "The Pause" I can't remember the author. Its a little red "pause" book thats Wonderful. Written by a woman whos gone thru it and includes obversations from All walks of women who have gone thru it. Your story Annie brings it to mind coz there was an observation from a female news anchor with the same issue you had. She writes something about wearing 2 heavy pads, a super tampon and bladder control pants just to do her news stint on the air. Its a Great, insightful book that answered Many of My questions better than most doctors and took the "fear of the unknown" out of what I was going thru.

eghammer

01-28-2005, 02:06 PM

Happy Birthday, Annie! I, too, am suffering from the every-two-hours thing, but it only lasts for 24 hours. That's a lot of super-plus tampons, pads and underwear to wash. Here's one for all you neophytes...there are actual clots! Anyway, glad it's coming to a close (for this month.) Don't let it stop you from riding. Just be prepared. :)

AutumnBreez

05-11-2005, 02:13 AM

This thing is awesome!!
I recieved it the day after my last visit with AuntFlo, but has come for another visit and the Diva cup is now in use and working wonders. I keep expecting to leak but not a drop on tissue. I am thrilled, seems to be unnoticed (comfy) and going to go for a ride today to put it to another test. :D I plan to tell my sisters the results after today. Funny thing that normally I dread this time of month, but think it will be much easier to cope with having this product. No more pads and tampons taking up room in the backpack or purse, coming out of the packages and sloppy messes in more areas than one. ;) Again...Thank you to those that have brought this product to my/our attention!!

doc

05-11-2005, 03:49 AM

I KNOW! It's hard to believe a little thing like that can make such a difference, but it does. I'm a recent convert myself. Congrats on a smart move. I want to tell everyone I know, but it's sort of impossible to work into normal conversation.

MightyMitre

05-11-2005, 05:43 AM

Glad you both like it. I've been a convert for getting on 4 years and can't see any reason to switch to anything else.

I too would like to spread the word, but like you say Doc - it's hard to work into everyday conversations. :p

AutumnBreez

05-11-2005, 12:04 PM

Not a conversation easily made usually but here at least we are all ok with it.
I rode 32 miles today, a longer ride then my avg.20-23.
It was wonderful, usually during my first couple of days it is the hardest because I have to usually change out the cotton so much to prevent leakage.
Awesome to feel so carefree!

Actually when I first got it and it was brand new, I discretly brought it to a woman in my office and told her about it and showed her my new found device that she may be interested as I was, because I also had no clue of it until finding this forum...
The one lady asked that I let her know how well it works for me. I will of course do so....again ever so discretly with confidence of its worth.

RoadRaven

07-16-2005, 03:35 AM

alison_in_oh

07-18-2005, 08:59 AM

OK... I know we have discussed this in several places...

I finally went enquiring in a chemist and they had not heard of these... anyone in NZ ever found something like this here?

I am going to print off the websites and take them in so the chemist can look into it.

Went for a 40km ride today... and what a mess... i don't want to be limited on days I could ride because of this!

GRRRRR...

You may need to mail order -- although I'm told these products are sold at some high-end health food grocery stores, I've never seen them on the shelf here in the US. Also, there are Canadian, US, and UK versions of most of the "top three" cup distributors, but I've never seen a southern hemisphere site. :\

Ooh, strike that, here's one. http://www.thekeeper.com.au/

doc

07-18-2005, 12:36 PM

Also try
http://www.divacup.com/

RoadRaven

07-18-2005, 12:54 PM

Thanks Alison and Doc

Hey, I'm just wondering, what is the state of Toxic Shock Syndrome with these cups?

TSS is linked closely with leaving tampons in for too long ... so how long does one leave a diva/keeper in... is TSS a factor with these as well?

doc

07-18-2005, 01:09 PM

They address the TSS issue on the Diva cup site. TSS was related to super absorbancy of tampons as well as how long they were left in place. The diva and keeper do not absorb anything, and don't create the same bacteria friendly environment that the tampon does. I'm going to go online and check if there have ever been any reports of TSS with a menstrual cup. I'll let you know if I find anything

RoadRaven

07-18-2005, 01:26 PM

Thanks Doc, my pages take so long to load on this connection, I'll never say "no" if someone offers to research on the net for me
Thanks again
:)

doc

07-18-2005, 01:39 PM

I couldn't find any cases reported of TSS related to menstrual cup use. However, one article succinctly pointed out that the abscence of reports does not mean the same as the absence of events. In addition, menstrual cup use is so much less frequent than tampon use, there will be far fewer cases.
That being said, the cup does not interfere with the normal environment of the vagina, no drying of healthy secretions etc, so the likelihood is definitely lower.

CorsairMac

07-18-2005, 03:00 PM

I also believe I remember reading that the incidence of TSS was increased by the use of "perfumed" tampons which would definitely be a non-issue with a cup.

RoadRaven

07-19-2005, 01:11 PM

Thanks again Doc and Corsair
I am off to town again tomorrow, so will go and have another chat with the chemist and see if they can get it in for me
Otherwise will look toward mail-ordering it myself
~R~

emily_in_nc

08-07-2005, 11:30 AM

Okay ladies, all the rave reviews convinced me to give it a try. I had not liked the Keeper, which I tried years ago, but the Diva Cup sounded softer (and is), so I ordered one and have been trying it out this cycle. It's a bit tricky to insert and remove, not to mention messy, so I doubt I'll use it at work with the public rest rooms, but it's great for using at home. I mostly wanted it for cycling and kayaking, and possibly camping one day in the future as well. And of course it's much better for the environment than all those tampons.

I'm happy with it so far, and I am sure I'll get better at insertion and removal as I get practice. It's very comfy once it's in, and I've only had a little bit of leakage, nothing a pantiliner couldn't catch. Most was on a rather strenuous 1.5 mile hike last night. It's possible I still have it inserted a bit too high.

Anyway, a tentative thumbs up so far!

Emily

CorsairMac

08-07-2005, 06:52 PM

MightyMitre

08-08-2005, 02:40 PM

What Corsairmac said, plus ...it does take a bit of practise to start with to get the insertion and taking out sorted. It took me several cycles but it's well worth it as once in place I find it's great. Hope you get used to it soon.

emily_in_nc

08-09-2005, 01:39 PM

Em: You should be able to use it at work - it should last you 4-6 hrs even during a heavy flow. But what I do at work is just clean it in my urine stream and then wash thoroughly when I get home. I just liked the idea of not having to deal with tampons or pads in a public restroom.

Unfortunately, my work days are long enough that I'd definitely have to change it at least once on my heavy days, and the thing that would worry me the most is that my hand can get pretty bloody taking it out/putting it in, which I wouldn't want anyone else to see on my way to the sink. It can also make some pretty "interesting" sounds during removal, which might be a little embarrassing if someone else were in the rest room. I am a bit of a neat freak so would want to wash it before reinserting it as well.

I did get better at it by the end of this cycle, and it worked great during a 20-mile bike ride. I definitely think I'm going to like it, but I'll have to work up to using it at work. Too bad we don't have private rest rooms (single-stall)!

Emily

CorsairMac

08-09-2005, 02:09 PM

emily_in_nc

08-09-2005, 02:38 PM

I just had a thought: water bottle???...take a water bottle in there with you so you can rinse it and your hand and stay in the stall?? you could always fill the water bottle at the sink afterwards and make it look like you took the water botttle in there for well - some water! ;)

Hey, that's a great idea. I surely have enough extra water bottles, too. I'll definitely give this a try next cycle! Thanks! :)

Emily

doc

08-10-2005, 10:34 AM

Emily
As far as leakage goes, I found that I would leak every time that I didn't make sure that it had "popped open" inside. So I spin the darn thing until I'm sure!! Usually that is almost nothing. Sometimes I find myself spinning and spinning and spinning, in which case I take it out and start again.

As far as the sound, I agree. It's a bit gross. My husband hates it. Tough luck on him. It's better than the feel of your insides getting ripped out when you take out a tampon way too soon!

drplasma64

08-10-2005, 04:44 PM

I've been using the Diva cup for the last year. It's pretty darn good, but I do need a pantyliner with it. For changing it in public restrooms, another thing to try is just wiping with tp or flushable wipes (they come in travel packs now). Also they're good for cleaning off your hand in the stall before coming out looking like something from a horror movie :eek:

emily_in_nc

08-10-2005, 06:10 PM

I really have a problem with the spinning! I try to spin it, but it's hard to do, and I can't tell if I have really spun it all the way. Should it be as easy to do as doc makes it sound?? :confused:

On a good note, the last time I used it this cycle when I was bleeding more than just a drop, I went most of the day with it in with nary a leak. When I took it out, it was nearly half full, so I guess I did it right.

Sorry if this is a bit of an overshare! :eek:

Emily

maryellen

08-10-2005, 06:44 PM

i too have difficulty w the spinning/rotating. Darn thing doesn't seem to move. I wonder if it's because I have a tipped cervix?

Fortunately, I just had my period, so I will be FREE of such concerns during next week's aids ride!!! I'll deal w rotating the diva cup in September . . .

Jaz

08-11-2005, 10:08 AM

Reading this thread has made me very curious about these products. I'm considering trying them. Does anyone use them who has an extremely light flow? For many years I only had 3-4 periods a year, finally got it checked out and my doc diagnosed PCOS. I was put on BC to regulate my cycles but sometimes I wonder why I take it, b/c I know i'd be flow-free w/out it. I often leave tampons in longer than recommended b/c I'm so lite. Is it worth checking these products out? How long can it be left with out needing to be washed?

drplasma64

08-11-2005, 12:11 PM

Jaz, this would be perfect for you. You only have to take it out and wash every 12 hours, so if you are light you can go that long. On my light days I put it in in the shower in the morning, and wash it in the evening.

The diva cup also has a 1 year money back guarantee, so if you don't like it, you aren't out anything but shipping.

CorsairMac

08-11-2005, 12:54 PM

plus it's Much safer than leaving a tampon in for "longer" since there is little to no risk of TSS with cups. I'm with DR on this Jaz - sounds Perfect for you! actually it's perfect for Anyone regardless of types of cycles!

MightyMitre

08-11-2005, 01:00 PM

About the spinning thing - I used to find this very difficult and would often have to have several attempts but as I've been using the cup for about 3 years I'm now very used to it. In fact, now I think about it, I 've totally deviated from the instructions for insertion that came with it.

I actually use the Keeper which I understand is the same as the Diva cup but made from rubber and is a bit stiffer.

When I insert I gently release the sides when it's only half way in and I can usually feel it as it opens up. I then carry on inserting by pushing from the base until it's in far enough. This works very well with the Keeper - I don't know if it would work with the Diva cup as I think it's made of a softer material.

Other tips for helping the cup to pop open more easily is to run under the cold tap after washing with warm water so it's not so bendy. Also, I've found it helps if the inside of the cup is dry. There seems to be less suction that way and the sides don't suck themselves together as you pinch it for insertion.

As for unpleasant /strange noise during removal - I'm with you on that one. At my last office I used to go to an alternative Ladies that was less used as I didn't want to run into anyone. I find it can help if you bear down a little during removal and if you do it very slowly you can reduce the slurping noise quite a lot.

Hope this isn't too graphic and hope it makes sense. :)

Jaz

08-11-2005, 03:42 PM

Dr and Corsair, thanks for the replies. I think I just might order one.

Blueberry

08-29-2005, 08:40 PM

and I have *no idea* whether this is going to work. I've got it in - we'll know by morning. I cannot spin it at all. Nada. I've taken it out and re-inserted to make sure I don't have it too far up. Nothing.

I also have real problems getting it out - I can't imagine that I would be able to do it outside of the shower when dealing with the real deal. As it was, I did a few acrobatics. Good think my husband isn't with me - I would never have lived it down :eek: I've read the instructions for insertion and removal, and read all of the tips here, but I still think I'm not getting it... Any more wisdom from you ladies??

maryellen

08-30-2005, 03:46 AM

I still can't do the spinning thing. There just isn't enough room in there for all this. :D

I wonder if part of my difficulties is that I have a tipped uterus. My gyn has difficulty sometimes reaching my cervix. I'm due to see her soon so perhaps I'll take my diva cup with me.

maryellen

08-30-2005, 06:41 AM

well, wouldn't you know it, since my last post, my cycle started, so I'm giving the Diva cup a try today. Will advise but I can tell you one thing, I am not empyting this at work today. NO WAY.

:o

CorsairMac

08-30-2005, 06:43 AM

One great piece of wisdom someone here gave me: when we first started using tampons there was a learning curve so give yourselves some time to get used to the cup. I'm just sorry I didn't know about this sooner! (like 20 yrs ago sooner) :(

As for the tipped cervix: mine is also tipped. I bought the Instead since I'm pretty much done with my cycles (yippee!!). If you still feel like you just can't seem to get the Cup to work for you, try the Instead instead! (ain't I the clever one!) You don't need to spin it and - although the instructions say use and toss - I rinse mine under hot water just like the Cup and reuse it, 1 per cycle. That way instead of a million tampons I have 1 cup. Instead is available OTC at any drugstore.

pkq

08-30-2005, 08:07 AM

OK, I'm sold. I'm getting the Diva. I feel so special to have a serious 48 hour flood complete with put-you-on-the-floor cramping, all of which seems to be getting worse as I age. This is why women usually died before 40, I'm sure of it!

yellow, mine were like yours from age 10 to 36, when it was yanked out. Cramps so bad puking was the order of the day, and worse, once a monthish.

BC pills regulated it but caused my pulse rate and blood pressure to increase about 100%. The doctor didn't understand my alarm, because they were still normal, until I told her it was a 100% increase from non-BC norms. The medical community put me through all kinds of stuff.

I'd felt an ovary for years but they couldn't feel anything during exams. When the cyst on the ovary burst, worst pain in my life to that point, they removed the cyst. Nothing showed up on the biopsied tissue but they didn't go deep enough for a plug of tissue. Two months later they were removing the ovary, endometriosis.

About 6 months later, I was back for more experimentation by the medical community. About a year later, they removed the uterus. I'd been taken to ER again with severe cramps and my doc was at a loss. Oddly enough, puking made everything settle down. But the pain getting there had gotten worse with age. The culprit was not endometriosis, as the doc suspected, but a uterine wall full of cysts, all benign. My paternal grandmother had endured the same problem. Darn genes!

You may have the same issue and it might be worth getting checked by your gyne.

I wish I'd had children prior to that but it wasn't to be. However, I love being free of all those challenges in womanhood. Once all you gals get to the other side, you'll love it. I haven't gone to the feminine product isle in 9 years! Yippee!!

doc

08-30-2005, 02:32 PM

[QUOTE=CorsairMac]One great piece of wisdom someone here gave me: when we first started using tampons there was a learning curve so give yourselves some time to get used to the cup. I'm just sorry I didn't know about this sooner! (like 20 yrs ago sooner) :(

I agree 100%. I initially had to do minor acrobatics to insert the darn thing. Now I can do it almost standing straight up. Like clipless pedals, and everything else in life, a little practice and it gets much easier.

drplasma64

08-30-2005, 05:33 PM

I agree 100%. I initially had to do minor acrobatics to insert the darn thing. Now I can do it almost standing straight up. Like clipless pedals, and everything else in life, a little practice and it gets much easier.

woah! Does that mean someday I'll be able to do clipless pedals since I've mastered the Diva cup?? :D

Seriously, I definitely had a learning curve with the Diva cup - started about a year ago, now it's second nature.

emily_in_nc

08-30-2005, 05:58 PM

I'm using the Diva Cup now for my first full cycle. I wore it w/o taking it out all day at work today, and it did just great; I totally forgot I had my period! Forgot it so well that I came home, took a walk with hubby, prepared dinner, and then thought "Oops, I really need to take it out!" It was, how can I put this delicately, FULL as it could be - glad I didn't forget it any longer! Fortunately, our powder room makes for easy washing with the sink within an arm's reach of the toilet, so I got it washed and reinserted, but once again, the spinning thing was just about impossible.

It hurt coming out as it opened up. Owweee! And it also pinches/bothers a bit after I first get it in, though it later seems to settle in and doesn't bother a bit after awhile, but at first I'm never sure it's in right or open. It took me a good ten minutes in the bathroom dealing with it tonight, and lots of slurping noises, so I still can't see removing and reinserting it in the restroom at work until I'm better at it, but once in, I must say that it really does do the job.

I also have a tipped cervix, actually a bit off to one side, so the speculum always hurts as they sort of pull my cervic into place for viewing. Perhaps if I just can't get the hang of the DivaCup (I'm not giving up yet), I might do as CorsairMac suggests and try the Instead cup. Does that go up higher, like a diaphragm? Used to use one of those many, many years ago and did not have any problems with it.

Emily in NC

maryellen

08-30-2005, 06:25 PM

<<Like clipless pedals, and everything else in life, a little practice and it gets much easier.>>

whoa, this does not bode well for me going clipless :(

CorsairMac

08-30-2005, 07:38 PM

I'm using the Diva Cup now for my first full cycle. I wore it w/o taking it out all day at work today, and it did just great; I totally forgot I had my period! Forgot it so well that I came home, took a walk with hubby, prepared dinner, and then thought "Oops, I really need to take it out!" It was, how can I put this delicately, FULL as it could be - glad I didn't forget it any longer! Fortunately, our powder room makes for easy washing with the sink within an arm's reach of the toilet, so I got it washed and reinserted, but once again, the spinning thing was just about impossible.

I also have a tipped cervix, actually a bit off to one side, so the speculum always hurts as they sort of pull my cervic into place for viewing. Perhaps if I just can't get the hang of the DivaCup (I'm not giving up yet), I might do as CorsairMac suggests and try the Instead cup. Does that go up higher, like a diaphragm? Used to use one of those many, many years ago and did not have any problems with it.

Emily in NC

Good for you - I know you were concerned about using the cup at work, glad to hear it worked for you! I have the same problem you do - pap smears are painful because my cervix is tipped "they say" so far up. As for the Instead being higher??....I never used the Diva so I don't know. What I do know is there isn't any spinning to get it to seat and once I got the hang of it (about 2-3 days) I went 8-12 hrs without having to change it. I was like you Em - I actually had to leave the package on the bathroom counter so I would remember I was on a cycle and change the darn thing. And there weren't any extraneous noises when I emptied it. I would have given the cup a try but felt the cost wasn't worth it with cycles that were happening about every 8-12 wks.

and I was rofl about the whole learning curve seque from the cup to clipless pedals! that was just too precious! TRUE - but precious nonetheless!

Raindrop

08-31-2005, 09:08 PM

After reading all the testimonials about the Diva cup here, I ordered one a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately, even though I did a "dry run" before my period was due I couldn't get it to work during my period (it leaked all over the place) which was a real pain since my period started during the Hood to Coast relay race. :(

So...now I've re-read everyones tips and I'm going to try, try again.

doc

09-01-2005, 06:04 AM

Raindrop
I am sorry to hear about your misadventure with the diva. As has been said before there is a bit of a learning curve so don't give up. A few hints: Don't insert it too high. It should be as low as possible while still being comfortable (i.e. you can't feel it at all). It needs to open up after being folded for insertion. I find that i can easily run my finger around the bottom after it is inserted and tell if its open (round) or still folded. Really embarrasing, I found being constipated made it leak too. Too much "stuff" in the pelvis I guess. Plus the diva website has a number of helpful hints.
Keep plugging away at it (pun intended!)

drplasma64

09-01-2005, 09:01 AM

Another tip is to make sure the little holes at the top are clean...sometimes they get plugged and then it is hard to keep suction. When I spin the Diva, I have to grab the actual base of the cup, not the stem. Then it is very easy to tell if it is still folded or buckled or open all the way. Also, if you gently pull a little on it you should feel resistance if it is open, but not if it's folded.

I had to cut off most of the stem for comfort and proper fit.

I've also had more leakage problems if I didn't start using it right away - like if the vagina is already too wet (TMI, I know) it is harder to get a good seal. So I try to put it in at the very first sign that I think I'm getting AF. Or else what can work is to use a tampon for a few hours, then use the Diva, b/c the tampon will dry you up. But I've had bad luck trying to use it after using a pad overnight.

Emily, regarding it opening up when pulling it out....try to release the suction by gently squeezing the base of the cup, (not the stem) as soon as you can reach it (I can do that right away b/c of the aforementioned trimming of the stem). Once you break the suction it shouldn't hurt to come out. And it will also make less noise!

BTW, I am using mine right now also...and went on a 40 minute ride on a hybrid, very upright, no discomfort whatsoever. But when I first starting using it, sitting in a chair was sometimes uncomfortable until I trimmed the stem.

Good luck!

emily_in_nc

09-01-2005, 10:12 AM

Thanks for all the good responses/advice, ladies. I wore it last night riding for the first time, and it worked like a champ! I even managed to change it at work yesterday before the ride by finding the lone single bathroom in our building so I wouldn't have to fear embarrassment. I'm getting better at it, and I feel so much better about the environmental impact of this vs. the huge number of tampons I was using every 26-27 days (my cycles are closer together now that I am in perimenopause, but still quite heavy).

Thanks ladies!
Emily

Blueberry

09-02-2005, 06:37 PM

Many thanks for all of the kind advice from you ladies - I think I've finally gotten it! My first ride with it was Wednesday also, and it performed very well (though I wasn't heavy yet). I've finally gotten the hang of getting it in and getting it out. Still not terribly comfortable, but I can do it reliably. I can't imagine anything with harder rubber, though... I have discovered that it doesn't always like to unfold. I can't rotate, but I just feel around the edges - you'll know! I have to partially remove it and then re-seat it.

I rode today with a much heavier flow, and it performed great! It was about 1/2 full, and nary a leak. Each time emptying it gets easier, and I feel so much better without the tampons drying out everything. Truly a great product (and I can't imagine how much $ it will save over the years).

If I (the person who whines about going to the ob gyn every time) can do it, anyone can do it. It really is worth a shot! :)

doc

09-03-2005, 06:32 PM

Yea!! Add another one to the ranks :)

Raindrop

09-24-2005, 09:02 PM

I hate to keep bumping an "old"subject, but thanks to everyone's tips, I have finally mastered the Viva cup. What a relief! Today I started by teaching my early morning spinning class, then went on to have a nice ride and nothing leaked or anything like that.

As cheap as I am, I' m so glad that this worked out. (I've purchased my last box of tampons...ever!!!!).

Again...thanks to everyone. This is soooooo good! :)

runnergirl

09-28-2005, 08:41 PM

Another Diva Convert (well, maybe)...

Yesterday was the first day of my cycle with the diva. No leaking which is good. :)

As much as I love not worrying about tampons every 3 hours, it's SOOOOOO painful to get in and out!!! I have a condition called vulvar vestibulitis, which causes redness and a burning pain in the vaginal vestibule ( 3-9 o'clock position, 1 cm wide), it makes sex impossible, but I can handle tampons since they're so narrow. My flow is light enough that I only need to take it out twice a day, but it sometimes takes 2 or more attempts to get it in (have to wait for the pain to subside in between), I really want to stick with it, why can't it be more like a diaphram and go in sideways! :(

RoadRaven

03-15-2006, 09:55 PM

Well... at last... months later, another year on the calendar, and I have done it... after going to numerous chemist shops, and to a couple of witchy/nature shops and a health food and products shop... I finally got hold of a "Moon Cup" :cool:

Believe it or not it was the health food supplies shop that got them in (they already stocked moon pads - reusuable pads :eek: which I have not tried)

So I have taken the cup in to show the chemists that expressed interest in knowing if I ever tracked one down... I reassured them that I had brought it in BEFORE I had tried it out :p and they were very interested - never heard of or seen them before!

So now I have to go in and let them know if it works!

Have pasted the links to other discussions here in case any newbie is as puzzled as I was when I got here and was trying to work out what the heck you meant and how the heck it worked... :rolleyes:

So I'll keep you posted and let you know if I think its as great as most of you do...

Real embarrasing question
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=435&highlight=diva

help! need advice for doing 585 mile ride during menstruation
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=2471&highlight=diva

That Time of the Month
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=2411&highlight=diva

Another private girly thing....
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=2070&highlight=diva

The Diva Cup
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=1921&highlight=diva

Dianyla

03-15-2006, 09:58 PM

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"]Well... at last... months later, another year on the calendar, and I have done it... after going to numerous chemist shops, and to a couple of witchy/nature shops and a health food and products shop... I finally got hold of a "Moon Cup" :cool:
Yay!! I love my MoonCup. I used a DivaCup for about a year and I found it a bit too long for my own personal anatomy (I guess I'm "short" in there). After talking to a bunch of women on another forum I visit, I decided to order a MoonCup from the UK (they are not yet sold in the US) and it's much more comfortable for me lengthwise than the Diva.

And yet the Diva is still 10 times better than tampons ever were. :eek:

bouncybouncy

03-16-2006, 05:11 AM

OH MY!!!!!!:eek:

i just LOOOOOOVE my diva!!!! haven't had any problem with length but i am tempted to cut the little "extension" on the tip (somebody on here suggested that at one point)

i do not know how i survived all my mensturating life without it...in fact i love it soooo much i want to buy it for all my mensturating friends as a gift...how do you think it would be recieved???:confused:

anyway...anyone questioning if they should try it or not...i say "go for it!" if you do not like it go back to your old way, nothing lost (except somewheres around $32) and at least you can say you tried, right?

***and think of all the septic tanks and landfill space that won't be filled up by...um...well...you all know what i am saying here!

Blueberry

03-16-2006, 06:16 AM

anyway...anyone questioning if they should try it or not...i say "go for it!" if you do not like it go back to your old way, nothing lost (except somewheres around $32) and at least you can say you tried, right?

When I bought mine, I was nervous it wouldn't work. So...I read all the FAQs on the divacup website. They offer a 1 year money back guarantee. So...if it doesn't work, you can get your money back. Nothing lost but some time in the trying of it.

Yep - it worked for me. Even Ms. Squeemish. And nope, I don't miss the vaginal irritation that tampons used to cause. ICK :eek:

So...thanks again ladies! I would never have heard of it but for you...

Carrie Anne

DrBee

03-16-2006, 06:40 AM

I just bought the Diva! Y'all sounded so positive about it - I had to give it a try. I, too, am prone to irritation and allergic to latex. So - this sounded like a great option. Hopefully it gets here before Wednesday :eek:

fixedgeargirl

03-16-2006, 09:33 AM

Yay!! I love my MoonCup. I used a DivaCup for about a year and I found it a bit too long for my own personal anatomy (I guess I'm "short" in there). After talking to a bunch of women on another forum I visit, I decided to order a MoonCup from the UK (they are not yet sold in the US) and it's much more comfortable for me lengthwise than the Diva.

And yet the Diva is still 10 times better than tampons ever were. :eek:

I know I'm *short* in there, so I'm glad you posted this! I keep forgetting to order a Diva, but now I'm glad I haven't, as that was a concern I've had. How much did it cost w/postage, if I might ask?

Dianyla

03-16-2006, 10:28 AM

I know I'm *short* in there, so I'm glad you posted this! I keep forgetting to order a Diva, but now I'm glad I haven't, as that was a concern I've had. How much did it cost w/postage, if I might ask?
It ended up being something like $35 with postage, IIRC. So, definitely pricier than the Diva but still, in the long run, totally worth it.

BTW, I did actually lop off the tail to my DivaCup completely, but even just the cup part was uncomfortably long for me. During some parts of my cycle it would fit fine, but when I'm really flowing hard my cervix can get very low and close to the entrance. I think of this as The Time When My Uterus Tries To Flee! :p When it's like that I could feel the base of divacup near the outside and that was mildly unpleasant. Not terrible, just unpleasant.

I can't feel the mooncup at all when it's in place.

doc

03-16-2006, 02:04 PM

I know I'm *short* in there, so I'm glad you posted this! I keep forgetting to order a Diva, but now I'm glad I haven't, as that was a concern I've had. How much did it cost w/postage, if I might ask?

The keeper has a shorter cup than the diva and a longer "tail" which they recommend you cut to whatever length you want. I don't really see how to cut the diva's tail, it's already pretty short. Try the keeper.

Dianyla

03-16-2006, 03:40 PM

The keeper has a shorter cup than the diva and a longer "tail" which they recommend you cut to whatever length you want. I don't really see how to cut the diva's tail, it's already pretty short. Try the keeper.
The cup areas of the keeper and mooncup are sized almost identically.

But... latex! :eek:

doc

03-17-2006, 06:25 AM

The cup areas of the keeper and mooncup are sized almost identically.

But... latex! :eek:

Good point! Plus the keeper is a weird color. So there you go.
I saw a picture of the moon cup and it looked just like the diva. I didn't think the tail was shorter but...

Dianyla

03-17-2006, 02:02 PM

Good point! Plus the keeper is a weird color. So there you go.
Yeah, not a fan of the toilet plunger look!

I saw a picture of the moon cup and it looked just like the diva. I didn't think the tail was shorter but...
Somewhere on another forum I've seen a picture that shows all three cups side by side so you can compare them to eachother. I'll see if I can dig it up.

ETA: OK here is the comparison pic, from left to right you have the Keeper, MoonCup, and DivaCup:

RoadRaven

03-17-2006, 05:33 PM

Well... it was $65NZ for me...

I wore it for half a day yesterday - including a short 10km bike ride... I could feel it there, but it wasn't terribly uncomfy and probably just a matter of getting positioning perfect.

I'm due for my period in the next few days... I'll let you know if its as great as you all seem to think...

:cool:

RoadRaven

03-18-2006, 10:52 PM

Well, had a race today as well as it being the first day of my period... have mastered emptying I think - at home anyways

I'll have to work on the tidyness aspect of that so I can do it at work

But I wore my moon cup in the race today, had it placed a tad higher inside me and it was brilliant... didn't notice I was wearing it... no strings to chafe me (usually wear two super tampons) no bits of pad (usually wear an inconitinance pad as well as the two tampons)...

I can see me using no tampons at all in the very near future... and then Ill save all that money - woohoo!!!

Hmmm... what can I spend it on... it is that time of the month... I know... CHOCOLATE!!!! :p

DrBee

03-22-2006, 06:34 AM

doc

03-22-2006, 11:25 AM

I don't know about this diva cup. I can't seem to get it in far enough. The tip is pretty much at the surface of things. That doesn't feel so good when I'm sitting down. It's like I'm pushing it out. It feels like it's almost in far enough when I put it in, but then it slips down just a bit. Ugh. I'm at work and going in the bathroom to reposition the thing is -- at the very least -- interesting. Any advice? :o

Yikes. That's really unpleasant. It is most definitely not supposed to be that low. When I first started using it, I had to squat almost all the way to the floor to get it in. Now I can do it standing up with one leg bent a tiny bit so there is a learning curve. Try the deep squat - just not in the stall at work!!!

Blueberry

03-22-2006, 12:06 PM

YWhen I first started using it, I had to squat almost all the way to the floor to get it in. Now I can do it standing up with one leg bent a tiny bit so there is a learning curve.

Hee Hee. I got it in and couldn't get it out. Had to lay on the bed with legs up in the air spread out to get it out. Don't know why that worked for me, but it did. Good thing hubby wasn't home at the time:rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Yes - it gets easier. I've always been incomfortable inserting and removing tampons, and I'm *very* comfortable with the diva cup now. Just takes a little practice. Hang in there!

And make sure you're thinking down and back when you insert it - it shouldn't go in too vertical. If it does, it hangs out and I've had it "pinch" girly bits on rides. Talk about OUCH!!!

Dianyla

03-22-2006, 12:52 PM

I don't know about this diva cup. I can't seem to get it in far enough. The tip is pretty much at the surface of things. That doesn't feel so good when I'm sitting down. It's like I'm pushing it out. It feels like it's almost in far enough when I put it in, but then it slips down just a bit. Ugh. I'm at work and going in the bathroom to reposition the thing is -- at the very least -- interesting. Any advice? :o
First idea - it might be getting hung up on the nose of the cervix. Try to point the open end more towards your back - aiming it towards your tailbone instead of your stomach. So if you were standing up, the base/stem of the cup would be pointing almost forward.

Second idea - the diva may be too long for you. I used the Divacup for a year and even when I got mine inserted as properly as possible, it would still slip down and poke me depending on the position of my cervix. The MoonCup is shorter and never gives me this problem.

DrBee

03-22-2006, 12:55 PM

I've tried re-doing it 3 times today. I know this is gross, but the sound it makes when it comes out is pretty loud. I've been making sure no-one else is in the bathroom when I go in there. I just experienced that pinching the girly bits thing. Most unpleasant. :( I'm not giving up yet, though. Everyone here seems so enthralled with this thing - and it has got to be better than tampons. I'll try squatting when I get home. At least is hasn't leaked :D

Dianyla

03-22-2006, 01:18 PM

I know this is gross, but the sound it makes when it comes out is pretty loud. I've been making sure no-one else is in the bathroom when I go in there.
I totally understand! I've learned that if you break the airlock very very slowly you can keep that glurp! sound to a minimum.

DrBee

03-22-2006, 04:24 PM

still having trouble. I'll try again in the morning. I'm trying not to get frustrated with it. I think it's popping open too early. I'm sure this is user error. Wish me luck in the AM.

doc

03-23-2006, 07:18 AM

I know this is gross, but the sound it makes when it comes out is pretty loud. I've been making sure no-one else is in the bathroom when I go in there. ...
... At least is hasn't leaked :D

Not leaking is certainly key!
As for the lovely sound - my husband hates it. I just laugh because it sure beats that horrible dry, ripping-your-insides-out feeling you sometimes get with a tampon!!

DrBee

03-23-2006, 10:44 AM

my husband want absolutely no info on this. He just puts his hands over his ears and sings "la la la la la" until I stop talking. :rolleyes: Can't say I blame him.

Still not having any luck with this today. It's in, but not well. I just know I'm getting the angle wrong. If only I could figure out how to find the right one.:confused:

bouncybouncy

03-23-2006, 11:02 AM

ok...you sound like you are having the same issues i was (except i was on a 2 day road trip...talk about grossing out the dh...i went thru 3 pairs of pants in one gas/food stop:mad:...i did not have any other device and i was SURE i was putting it in right each time:confused: )

anyway...my solution: i hoped in the shower and took it out, put it in, took it out, put it in....and so on!

***i am gonna get a little graphic here so either deal or move on...

i would feel up inside and make sure the cup was fully opened...all the way around. sometimes i would have to pull it out JUST A BIT...not all the way and turn it slightly until it *popped* into place wiggling it around (if you will) so when you pulled on the end slightly it felt a little like a suction. and remember it will not be perfectly vertical...

hope this helps!!

note***make sure the cup is NOT full of water while in the shower when you are inserting it...i do not think it would hurt but i can't imagine it being good either!!!

DrBee

03-23-2006, 11:16 AM

Thanks for the advice. I'm going to try the shower trick in the morning. I'm pretty sure it's opened. I just can't seem to get it in far enough. Maybe I'm shorter than I thought in there, but I do have problems inserting tampons every so often - with the angle. That seems to have gotten worse after having kids (is that possible?). Might be in my head...

SnappyPix

03-23-2006, 11:23 AM

So great to hear that I'm not the only one experiencing these problems!

Have to laugh though - if ever there were any male lurkers/female impersonators, this thread would send them packing!

CorsairMac

03-23-2006, 11:30 AM

well - let's just add more info to the graphic line! :D

My whatever is tipped so pelvic exams are always tough on new docs. Where I'm going with this is I had to make sure the edge of the cup was clear of my pelvic bone. I use the Instead cups but I have to sorta push the cup down and back first, then make sure the lip has cleared my pelvic bone or I can tell the cup is in and it leaks.
Hang on there Dr - if it helps any, someone wise posted it took us a few times to get used to a tampon, it may take a few tries for the cup. I just wish I knew about this Before I was pretty much done! :o

DrBee

03-23-2006, 01:05 PM

Yes - this thread would definitely send the male lurkers running! :D It's right up there with the whole burying and eating the placenta thing. :eek:

Corsair - I, too, am tipped and I think that is causing my problem. I'll try pushing down. Thanks for the tip (ooh - bad, sorry - once I think the bad pun, I must say it or my head will explode :p )

It's nice to know I'm not alone on this! :o

doc

03-23-2006, 03:08 PM

Have you gone to the diva website? They do have a huge Q & A section. Maybe they even have a "contact us" button

kiwi girl

03-23-2006, 03:16 PM

doc

03-23-2006, 03:17 PM

Blueberry

03-23-2006, 03:28 PM

You can also use the store locator function on divacup.com Many of the organic/health food type stores sell them (for example, in NC Earthfare carries them...)

Good luck!

Carrie Anne

Dianyla

03-23-2006, 03:48 PM

I have yet to see a cup being sold in a bricks & mortar store, though places like Whole Foods/Wild Oats really should be selling these.

I got my Diva a few years ago from http://www.mountaingear.com/ (an outdoor sports equipment company) and then a year ago I ordered my MoonCup from http://www.mooncup.co.uk/

RoadRaven

03-24-2006, 01:23 PM

This discussion has got me pretty interested. I see that Road Raven managed to track one down in NZ, but I am going to be in the States next month - do you have to order these or do you buy them somewhere - pharmacies?

I have the contact - in Nelson believe it or not... if you want to try and get one locally before you head off... but it sounds like they are pretty common in the states and one form or another should be easily found - probably from the "drugstore" - I think thats what they call chemists over there...

SnappyPix

03-24-2006, 04:52 PM

I was chatting to a UK friend on Messenger today - she suddenly asked if I'd heard of Mooncup as it was being advertised in ladies' loos in pubs back home. Initially she was making fun of the "Moonbucket" until I pointed out how brilliant the concept is (having a Diva Cup myself), and how much money you save on tampons. After a while she'd changed her mind completely and was researching where she could buy one!
I'd be interested to try the "Moonbucket" as it seems slightly smaller than the diva (save for the stick, which you can trim) and I have trouble with the Diva protruding. Will have to wait until later in the year though when I'm back home in the UK.
Good to learn the concept is catching on though and women have a greater choice over tampons and pads.

CorsairMac

03-27-2006, 12:59 PM

This discussion has got me pretty interested. I see that Road Raven managed to track one down in NZ, but I am going to be in the States next month - do you have to order these or do you buy them somewhere - pharmacies?

You can buy something called "Instead" over the counter here in the States at just about any reputable "drugstore". There's 12 or 14 in a box and it gives you a chance to try them first before "taking the plunge". (yup, we're just Full of it here aren't we?! lol) {{it's Fishdrs fault}} The instructions say to use once and toss but since the materials are similar to the Diva, I use one per cycle and then toss.

Try a Wal-Greens store they're pretty much in every state here!

bouncybouncy

03-27-2006, 01:32 PM

now i have tried the product "instead" with no luck...in fact it actually worked but i couldn't get it out!!!!!:eek:

i see that alot of women are having issues with the device (mooncup/diva cup...etc) being too long which leads me to believe that i must be long on the inside...being so short you would not think so:confused:

so that is a good idea to try the "instead" but i must say again & again...once you get the hang of it (and the right fit by cutting off the tip) it is a wonderful, wonderful invention!!!!

Pearl Izumi MicroSensor 3D Pro Short...$ 119.95

Pro Team cycling jersey.................................$ 99.95

Giro Atmos Helmet Giro.................................$ 189.99

SIDI Genius 5.5 Women's HT Carbon.....$ 299.95

top of the line carbon road bike................$ 5800.00
(your own brand of choice
we all have such different favorites here)

Diva Cup.................................................................priceless!!!

annie

03-27-2006, 02:37 PM

I, also, have tried the Instead product. Had no luck! It would NOT stay in, no matter how carefully I inserted it and followed the directions. I finally decided I must either be oddly shaped or just not long enough inside to hold the little bugger. :confused: :confused: So I gave up and went back to tampons. With any luck, I WON'T HAVE TO DEAL WITH IT too much longer. I am SO ready for menopause. There has to be something good about getting older......... :D Not bleeding every month would be one of the good things.

annie

DrBee

03-27-2006, 02:56 PM

Corsair - are they latex or silicone? I'm considering returning the Diva cup and trying the mooncup, but this might be another option. I contorted myself in the shower (which was a much less messier option), but it still didn't work. I'm still sold on the idea, I think I just need a shorter one. :confused:

And... {{it's FishDrs fault}} - baahaaahaahaaa - it's infectious. That was a good one BTW ;)

CorsairMac

03-28-2006, 12:33 PM

ummmm :confused: :confused: :confused: not a clue! it's some soft somethingy on the edge and then has a catch basin made out of somethingy else. (good thing there aren't any men here - all this technical jargon would leave them confused and searching for their "tech talk for dummies" book) It might be worth a try, the catch basin is structured Much differently than the Diva which is why I'm thinking it's more comfortable - but then I never tried the Diva.

Blueberry

03-28-2006, 12:39 PM

Try the website for the Instead Cups...www.softcup.com ...for more info.

From the website:

Q: Does the INSTEAD® Softcup® have any latex?

A: No, there is absolutely no latex used anywhere in INSTEAD® Softcup®. The INSTEAD® Softcup® reservoir is made of Polyethylene.

I've never managed to find these, but I'm so happy with the diva, I haven't gone looking either...

Carrie Anne

shetris703

08-17-2006, 06:18 AM

Wow, I am feeling so naive. I've never heard of any of these before. Do they hurt to get in and out? Can you get them in stores? Are they sanitary?

CorsairMac

08-17-2006, 11:37 AM

Wow, I am feeling so naive.

I've never heard of any of these before. Yeah - I wish I had known about this before I reached a stage in my life where I really don't need them anymore! :o

Do they hurt to get in and out? No

Can you get them in stores? Yes

Are they sanitary? Very

Actually I found the Instead cup way more comfortable than using a tampon ever was.

I bought the Instead cups at my local grocery store. You should be able to get them at a Wal-Greens or something like or your local health store.

They are as sanitary as you keep them, I wash my Instead cup under hot water and make sure it's clean before reinserting.

You can't buy the Diva/Moon Cup in the stores (I don't think) but the websites are located here within this thread. I tried the Instead cup first to see if I would like it and was very pleased. The Instead will tell you to use once and toss but I would rinse mine out and reuse them just like a Diva or Moon Cup. Only 1 per cycle but still it was cheaper than buying tampons all the time.

doc

08-17-2006, 12:04 PM

Wow, I am feeling so naive. I've never heard of any of these before. Do they hurt to get in and out? Can you get them in stores? Are they sanitary?

I use diva and love it. The website is diva.com I think. There is also the keeper at keeper.com I have been using the same diva since I first started over a year ago. So fabulous for travel. No need to pack anything. There is definitely a little learning curve to using diva. But once you've figured it out; heaven.

RoadRaven

08-17-2006, 12:25 PM

Well, having just finished another cycle, I was thinking about coming back here and thanking everyone again for introducing me to this
I have been using a moon cup since Autumn (your spring in the northern hemisphere) and its fabulous.
And am trying to comvert other women to it - so much cheaper, environmentally friendly - as well as more comfortable on the bike than other "arrangements'

liksani

09-17-2006, 10:12 PM

doc

09-18-2006, 03:10 AM

Hmm, okay I just got a diva cup to try and well maybe i'm just challenged in some way :P I couldn't get it in at all and finally gave up trying to get it in and got a pad instead. I folded it up into that U shape they tell you to and then put it in.. it goes in about an inch or so and then after it it just starts hurting. :( Any suggestions on what I can try to do to get it in?

Here are a few suggestions:
Wet the diva with tap water before you get started. You can even try KY jelly if you want.
First time I actually had to squat all the way down to the floor with my knees out. But now I can insert it easily standing perfectly upright, so there is definitely a learning curve.
Make sure you are aiming to the small of your back, not straight up.
I assume you have no problems with tampons?

Dianyla

09-18-2006, 05:32 PM

I folded it up into that U shape they tell you to and then put it in..
I personally think that the U double-fold shape in the literature is a crock. Someone on another forum taught me how to fold it like this:

http://diane.rokatek.com/hair/diva1.jpg

Also, make sure you get it farther in before letting it unfurl. The pelvic floor muscle is about an inch in and that tight narrow stretch is what you're running into. Once you get past that ring of muscle the canal widens a bit and is much more elastic - you want to get the rim of the cup into that region. Try to consciously relax, and as doc mentioned a deep squat is a great position for insertion and removal. Also seconding what she said about moisture/lube.

Kitsune06

09-18-2006, 06:09 PM

I use lube, but I also make sure it's *right by* my cervix before I let it open, or it never 'seats' right. but with all that fidgeting- *use lube*.

I find it has to have some small degree of 'suction' in order to completely prevent leakage. Has anyone else found this to be true?

Dianyla

09-18-2006, 06:28 PM

I find it has to have some small degree of 'suction' in order to completely prevent leakage. Has anyone else found this to be true?
I think I know what you're saying, but that's not exactly how it works. Once it's seated properly, you will feel a bit of suction if you try to move the cup around. But the suction is not what actually prevents leakage, since air bubbles have to be able to escape as the cup fills up with liquid.

TMI: I can always tell when I'm flowing hard when the cup is burping a lot. :rolleyes:

velocilex

09-19-2006, 09:24 AM

I've been using my Keeper for a year and a half. I started having periods of Old Testament proportions due to peri-menopausal weirdness and I ordered my Keeper on the day I went through 17 tampons in an afternoon. :( The first month using the Keeper was one big trial and I had a couple messes, but after I figured out how to make it work/fit with my body it worked like a charm and I will never go back to a disposable product. I fold mine just like Dianyla does and get the edges wet to ease insertion. I've worn it on several rides of 50+ miles and never had it leak. It is so worth the investment in terms of money and in terms of the health of your lady-bits!

xeney

09-19-2006, 09:36 AM

colby

09-19-2006, 11:52 AM

Recently I am also finding that it is just plain uncomfortable. I have never found it to be as comfortable as promised, and it definitely never helped with my cramps -- I wear a pad instead if I am having really bad cramps. But in the last six months I have had two really awful leaking incidents, and I am too old for that nonsense. I have been using it on light days but those are the days when it is most uncomfortable, so I am about to just give up on it. Too bad, because the reusability appeals to the environmentalist and to the cheapskate in me, but I think I am just not shaped right for the cup.

Depending on how your inner environmentalist competes with your inner gross-out factor, you could try Glad Rags or some of the other reusable/washable pads. They also make sea sponge tampons.

Reusable pads:
http://www.gladrags.com/gladrags-cotton-menstrual-pads-c-21.html

Sea sponge: http://www.gladrags.com/alternative-menstrual-products-sponges-c-22_36.html

You could also try the Keeper, which might be a little differently shaped, but probably not significantly enough for you.

Dianyla

09-21-2006, 06:03 PM

Recently I am also finding that it is just plain uncomfortable. I have never found it to be as comfortable as promised, and it definitely never helped with my cramps
You mention that you got your Diva cup about 3 years ago? I bought my cup in spring 2004, right before they changed their product design. The silicone of the pre-2004 cups is very stiff and can be quite uncomfortable. The newer cups made since mid-2004 are much more soft and squishy, from what I am told by people who have both cups. The softer the cup, the easier it is to insert and remove, and the more comfortable it is when it's inside you.

At any rate, I never bought a newer Diva. I switched to a MoonCup because it is smaller and shorter than the DivaCup. With the Diva, I could always feel the cup inside me, and sometimes depending on the position of my uterus the base of the cup would poke me on the outside (even after trimming the stem off). The Mooncup is about 1cm shorter in length and much more flexible and it fits me perfectly. I guess I am just smaller/shorter inside than other women. The MoonCup is almost exactly the same proportion and squishiness as the Keeper, but it is made of silicone instead of latex.

Because of the smaller size it has slightly less capacity but the comfort increase is totally worth it. The only problem I have now is the occasional overflow incident because I completely forgot I was even wearing it. :cool:

xeney

09-21-2006, 06:58 PM

Oh, that is good information. That poking from inside thing is a big problem for me, and I have my Diva Cup trimmed as far back as I can. I am a little embarrassed to be buying my THIRD menstrual cup, but I will definitely take a look at the Moon Cup because I do not miss tampons at all. Thanks!

CorsairMac

09-22-2006, 12:20 PM

or try the Instead cup...which you can get at your local drugstore. It doesn't have any "points", it's a very soft material and 1 cup can be used per cycle so a box will last you about a year or longer.

Just another option...................

Kitsune06

09-22-2006, 08:50 PM

xeney-
I got fed up with the pokey thing, too... finally I just cut it flush with the outside bottom of the cup (not returning it anyway...) and carefully smoothed it down with a new razorblade. It worked pretty well. To remove it, I have to grip the ridgies on the bottom of the cup instead of the 'stem' but it's all good; I'm not easily squicked.

Raindrop

09-22-2006, 09:01 PM

It took me awhile to be able to 'seat' the Diva cup properly, but one thing I found that worked for me was to sit on the toilet, make sure whatever I was wearing was down around my ankles so I could open my knees wide (sorry to be so graphic) and then I'd take a deep breath to kind of relax myself and put the folded cup in about halfway....let it open and push it all the way in (while breathing and relaxing:o ), and then do the old finger around the rim to make sure it opened.

I have a severly tilted uterus (sp?) and when I sit I sometimes leak a little, so I wear a panty liner during the heaviest part of my period and that seems to suffice.

I think the Diva cup is great. I just wish I had known about it years ago. Ah..they money I would of save could of bought me a ...well at least a really nice jersey.

Kitsune06

09-22-2006, 09:08 PM

Not too graphic, Raindrop. In fact that's pretty much to a T what I do. Maybe I'm tilted a little, too, and that's why I leak. huh.

Oh well, whatever works, eh?

mtkitchn

06-03-2007, 11:54 AM

maillotpois

06-03-2007, 12:05 PM

I've used it on a lot of long rides (a couple of 200ks, yesterday's 100 miler, a 400k - yeah, my "timing's" not great :rolleyes: ). It works great. When I was on coumadin, it was tough to get more than 4 hours out of it :eek: , but now under normal circumstances, I can get through a long ride (10 - 12 hours) no problem.

I would not take a chance on enptying it in a porta potty. It's possible to drop it in the process. That would not be good.

Be sure it is "in" enough so nothing is protruding or rubbing.

mtkitchn

06-03-2007, 12:20 PM

Thanks, Sarah! I'm looking forward to giving this thing a try!

doc

06-03-2007, 12:44 PM

Okay, I've taken the plunge and ordered a diva cup. I've never tried any menstrual cup before, but I'm signed up for an all day ride in July right over my period and don't feel like sitting on a string for 12 hours (ouch!:eek: ). Does anyone have experience with one of these cups on a long ride...i.e. how do you empty them when there are only portapotties available? Do they bother you after so many hours of moving around on the saddle? How long can you keep them in before emptying?
Thanks! Looking forward to getting mine; hopefully it arrives before June's period and I can give it a trial run.

The trial run is really important. There is a little bit of a learning curve with the diva. Most days I can leave it in for 12 hours, but on a heavy flow day six is it. Portapotty is a definite problem. I would not take mine out in those conditions either.
I love love love my diva. I've given diva cups to friends as birthday presents. So far everyone is thrilled, and all agreed they would never have gotten it themselves.

Zen

06-03-2007, 01:16 PM

doc, how heavy is "heavy" ? I'm in serious 24 hour flood and then I'm done mode these days... I'm really skeptical of trying anything new.

Irulan

Have you ever heard of a procedure called Novasure. It's an endometrial ablation surgery and the best thing that ever happened to me.

Except for that one night with George Clooney

amymisk

06-05-2007, 01:48 PM

After spending way too much time at work reading this thread, I think I may have to try this.

I don't have a real heavy flow but I just don't like tampons. I've never had much luck with them.

I do have one concern which might not be a problem. I have an IUD. They have strings which extend out of the cervical os so that I can verify that the IUD is still in position. My guess is that this type of product would not interfere with that provided they don't sit high up in the vaginal canal. Anyone use a cup with an IUD?

Thanks for all the tips!

doc

06-05-2007, 02:37 PM

Dianyla

06-06-2007, 03:29 PM

I also use an IUD and a mooncup. My strings are a little long and sometimes my cervix rides kinda low, so I just have to make sure they're tucked up in the groove at the base of the cervix. Depending on how high I insert the cup that day, the strings can get between the rim of the cup and the vaginal wall. Scrape! :eek:

Jenn

06-06-2007, 03:36 PM

I finally found a store here that is going to order a diva cup for me. I'm a little skeptical as I've had problems getting tampons in since having my daughter. My cervix is retroverted and the Dr ALWAYS has a hard time finding it! Should be interesting when I try it!!:rolleyes:

Blueberry

06-06-2007, 07:14 PM

Diva has a money back guarantee (least they did when I purchased mine...)

I hope you're pleasantly surprised:)

amymisk

06-06-2007, 07:45 PM

thanks for the responses for the IUD questions. I guess I will have to give it a try!

RoadRaven

06-07-2007, 12:29 AM

I'm a little skeptical as I've had problems getting tampons in since having my daughter. My cervix is retroverted and the Dr ALWAYS has a hard time finding it! Should be interesting when I try it!!:rolleyes:

Hey there Jenn, I find them much more comfortable than tampons. Sometimes, tampons just don't fit well and feel uncomfortable. After working out the fold and tuck trick of placing a moon cup, I have never felt like it is poking into me, wedged sideways or anything like that.

Hopefully you find the same.

Tampons stick straight up towards your cervix. With a mooncup, your cervix is sort of... cradled... cupped... thats the best I can describe it as.

BleeckerSt_Girl

06-07-2007, 12:19 PM

doc

06-07-2007, 12:29 PM

Sounds just like a diaphragm to me. (Anyone here old enough to remember THOSE?) Is there a difference? Ahhh...the memories.....:o :rolleyes: :cool:

P.S. Tip- you can tuck the tampon string just barely inside you if you are going to be riding, so it does not stick out at all. It's easy to fish it out quickly when you want to remove the tampon. :)

I was once a diaghram user. Blech. But the similarity is undeniable. Diva is way better.
Tampon - double blech. Hurts to put in if your dryish. Torture to take out if your flow is very light. No way is it going to last 12 or more hours as diva does. Nothing to dispose of. To me there is no comparison.

Jenn

06-07-2007, 01:38 PM

Hey there Jenn, I find them much more comfortable than tampons. Sometimes, tampons just don't fit well and feel uncomfortable. After working out the fold and tuck trick of placing a moon cup, I have never felt like it is poking into me, wedged sideways or anything like that.

Hopefully you find the same.

Tampons stick straight up towards your cervix. With a mooncup, your cervix is sort of... cradled... cupped... thats the best I can describe it as.

Oh, thank you so much!! Having a child changed things, but it was a "running joke" with my DR....hmmm lets find your cervix today.:rolleyes:
Thank you so much..I hope that the diva cup works as good.....if not I'm going with what you recommend!!! Thank you soooo much!!!

mtkitchn

06-16-2007, 04:04 PM

Diva cup arrived the day before my period! Today it's getting its trial run. Not completely comfortable so I cut the stem a little. Was hard to get out the first time.
Might ride tomorrow and really check it out. If I can find motivation to ride in 110 degree weather. :eek:

lizbids

06-19-2007, 07:35 PM

I'm so glad you guys like the Diva. I bought one but can't get used to it at the moment. I remember a gyno telling me I had a "small cervix," and when I asked what that meant, there was no answer. Nice, right?

So, do some of you feel that you don't have to turn it while it's inside you? Maybe I just have tighter muscles, but I just can't seem to do that. Like I find it almost impossible to be able to fit my fingers in there to really twist it. I gave up and wore a tampon because I was going to be late for work! I did just trim the stem, so maybe I can try later tomorrow or the next day. I'll keep y'all posted.
:p

ChickWithBrains

06-22-2007, 08:35 AM

A few thoughts:

It doesn't matter if your uterus is anteverted or retroverted ("tipped"): the keeper and diva are less likely to work well for women whose anatomy isn't the usual "pointing down when standing up." However, Instead might work really well, since the key is seating one edge of it around the cervix and the other against the pelvic anatomy -- pelvic bone or coccyx. For retroverted and "normal" women, the key is to angle *back* when inserting, and using a finger to tuck the "front" aspect up high enough to get it to catch under the pelvic bone. For anteverted women, the opposite: angle forward to go around the cervix, and with a finger tuck the back edge high enough against the upper and backmost part of the vagina, above the pelvic floor muscles. Slipping out tends to happen most in women with very relaxed pelvic floors (from childbirth, natural anatomy, big partners, or not enough kegels :)) or if the cup hasn't been tucked up high enough once inserted. You've *got* to anchor it around the cervix and another anatomical point, or it WILL come out and you WILL leak. It doesn't need to be perpendicular to the vaginal canal, just needs to be anchored right.

Re: birth control pills and PCOS: the pills may make you regular and more predictable, but they don't "help" your body any other way. The periods you get on the pill aren't the same as natural periods. It's withdrawal bleeding, just a bodily response to the progesterone no longer being there. So if unpredectable but fewer periods are appealing to you, ditch the pills! But if the predictability is nice, keep 'em.

RoadRaven

06-22-2007, 11:17 AM

Wow, Chick
I didn't know it was so complicated
I must be in my second year using the moon cup and I just pop it in, give the stem a tug to make sure its in far enough and away I go...

I have never thought about fit around my cervix - I assume it is "normal" as I have had 7 pregnancies and 5 live births and I assume some doctor or midwife might've said something

The only time I have "leakage" issues is during 36 hours or so when it is very heavy and if I don't change every hour... well, its messy.

So maybe it anchors itself by luck?

ChickWithBrains

06-23-2007, 08:02 AM

It only sounds complicated -- you and I are the lucky ones who just happen to pop it in on the first try :)

nafula

06-26-2007, 12:57 PM

Ordered mine just now. I've never used one before, but all the reviews here make it sound pretty good. I currently use the Instead soft cups, but they really seem to big for me at times. Hopefully because this sits differently it will work a little better.

By the way, I bought mine at luckyvitamin.com for $20 if anyone else is looking into it.

coyote

06-26-2007, 02:12 PM

Thanks nafula I just went and ordered one too.

Grog

09-04-2007, 09:56 AM

Hi all!

I'm now happily part of a trial study for the Diva Cup (they're comparing it to tampons) and I was glad I got to be in the "Diva" group. I logged my tampon/pads use for one month and now I have to log my Diva use for three months.

I know that I have a retroverted uterus and a short vagina from being probed a lot down there when I had my ovarian cysts. I have used tampons all my life without problem. It was okay to insert it but I can't seem to push the thing far enough. It's poking me a bit from the inside and I can definitely feel it when I'm walking. I just rode 1 km on my hybrid this morning to get to work and it wasn't great, although it wasn't painful. I've cut the stem a tiny bit, without much improvement.

I've gone through much of the thread so I'll keep trying (in any case I have to). I am assuming that I should get to the point when I don't feel it at all. We'll see. I'll try the other way to fold it that someone illustrated...

I'm also interested in the Moon Cup though, since it's supposed to be smaller, but dunno where to find it in Canada (or the US, if I can order online). Any suggestions?

batsheva

09-04-2007, 05:22 PM

:eek:

can't get it up there at all - far too big-- it feels like there is a bit rubber cup stuck in my wotsit-- which of course there is!! and super-painful to extract... exerts a whopping suction - ouch!!

tampons for riding much better if i tuck the string in a bit. perhaps it's 'cos i have not had kids and am 52 kilos (115lbs).

the diva cup is in the trash...

bat

Grog

09-04-2007, 05:26 PM

can't get it up there at all - far too big-- it feels like there is a bit rubber cup stuck in my wotsit-- which of course there is!! and super-painful to extract... exerts a whopping suction - ouch!!

Have you tried breaking the suction (by pinching the sides) before pulling out the cup?

tygab

09-04-2007, 05:49 PM

hello all. Well many moons (aagh bad pun) ago I got a mooncup too from reading about it here. I have to say it is not comfortable to put in OR remove. Placement I have found requires additional lubrication. Removal, due to the incredible suction, requires a few stressful moments in my shower. It does feel too large for me but I ordered per the charts (age, in this case). Perhaps I should just order the smaller one. Like bat I am small and no kids.

I didn't give up on it tho. Once in place, it is far better than the tampon or pad combo. With the MC I can put on a liner and be good for most the day. I am even comfortable enough to exercise which I never felt good about before. So, all in all it is a positive. But I do wish it were easier to situate.

lizbids

09-04-2007, 07:12 PM

I used the Diva cup on my summer tour and will never go back to tampons or pads ever again! Only once did I have trouble removing it b/c I put it in too far, but it still came out. I also find that it's totally not needed for me to fully rotate it once inside me. Just wanted to add my two cents!

mtkitchn

09-04-2007, 07:32 PM

I'm also 115 lbs with no kids. The first period using the diva, I found the cup somewhat cumbersome and difficult, but after cutting off the long stem and using the cup a few times, I wouldn't go back to tampons. One more happy customer.:D

amy

09-05-2007, 11:02 AM

I have to say I absolutely love my diva cup. I've been using it for about 4 years. The first 6 months or so had a learning curve for me. I would occasionally have leaks, but I often did with other methods, too. I have found that on really heavy flow days, I have to empty it 2 or 3 times a day, and actually I get a slight cramping feeling when my cup is near maximum capacity. I don't know how that is, but it is consistent.

Given the conversations about diaphragms, I will say I also use one of them for birth control. Yes, they actually still make those things. And I really like it. I don't think I EVER would have considered it if I hadn't gotten comfortable with my diva cup first, but I've used the diaphragm for about 3 years or so. I'm firmly against hormones and it works for me.

Dianyla

09-05-2007, 11:47 AM

I know that I have a retroverted uterus and a short vagina from being probed a lot down there when I had my ovarian cysts. I have used tampons all my life without problem. It was okay to insert it but I can't seem to push the thing far enough. It's poking me a bit from the inside and I can definitely feel it when I'm walking. I just rode 1 km on my hybrid this morning to get to work and it wasn't great, although it wasn't painful. I've cut the stem a tiny bit, without much improvement.
I'm built about the same way with a retroverted uterus and a fairly short canal. The best comfort level I was able to get was by lopping the entire tail off of the Diva. And I could still always feel it in there, it wasn't always uncomfortable but it was there. Kinda like a big hard turd.

I used it for about two years (hey, it's still better than tampons!) but when I heard about Mooncups I decided to try one out. I bought one online from their website: http://www.mooncup.co.uk The Mooncup is much more comfortable for me as it is shorter. Sometimes when my cervix gets really really low (I always think that my uterus is attempting to flee my body at this point) I can feel the base of the cup nearing the outside but generally I don't feel it at all when it's in there. I also chopped the entire tail off of the Mooncup, too.

Hey, batsheva, it sounds like you've got two issues going on. First, your cup sounds too big. Second, you probably aren't breaking the suction before trying to remove it. If you decide that it's a lost cause, don't throw it away. Diva has a satisfaction guarantee, I can't remember exactly but I believe it's up to one year from the date of purchase?

Also, bear in mind that body height and weight are not exactly correlated to genital sizes in men or women. I've seen quite big and tall women who have petite hoohas and need a small cup, and some small and trim women who have larger anatomy. Your mileage may vary.

Grog

09-05-2007, 01:39 PM

I'm built about the same way with a retroverted uterus and a fairly short canal. The best comfort level I was able to get was by lopping the entire tail off of the Diva. And I could still always feel it in there, it wasn't always uncomfortable but it was there. Kinda like a big hard turd.

Wow, what a great description of my symptoms!!!

I have thrown the towel for today. I am positive that I am pushing it far enough, plus it "spins" (well, sort of) very nicely in there, but it's poking me hard. No leaks though.

This morning I was really getting annoyed (and irritated) so I pulled it out and put an Instead cup in. I don't feel it at all, nothing poking out, and it's not leaking either. Too bad it's disposable.

I've ordered a mooncup and we'll see what happens, but I'll still give a few trys to the Diva cup this month and the next two, since I'm part of that clinical study...

shewhobikes

09-16-2007, 02:24 PM

OK, so I am getting a diva cup tomorrow and hoping to figure it out before I do the MS150 ride in Florida in 2 weeks.

Sorry if this is TMI, but I am in a bad way with cramps and heavy bleeding off and on for most of 2 weeks now, after not having a period since December. Yes, I've talked to the doc and yes, I've had all the requisite tests (endometrial biopsy--YOUCH!!!--blood work, etc., etc.). And I'm taking my vitamins and slow-release iron.

I was hoping to do the full 150--75 on that Saturday on my bike, 75 on Sunday with my sweetie on the tandem--but I guess I will just have to let Mother Nature fill me in on what's possible at the time.

I guess I'm just discouraged. I've ridden well all summer, including LOTS of climbing on a weeklong trip in Vermont, and now I've not felt like riding for 2 weeks.:(

OK, I will get off the pity pot and see if anybody has any suggestions or encouragement. I'm 51 years young, been riding 2.5 years, put 2,500 miles on the bike each year, and now I'm frustrated and a bit bummed out...

Thanks!

kat_h

02-29-2008, 08:03 AM

I've been thinking about trying these for a while and after reading this thread I ordered the sample 2 pack of Instead. If that goes well I'll try a mooncup. I've actually never used tampons. Back when I was a kid my mom made me try to put one in. It hurt and I couldn't get it in so I never tried again. Currently I use cotton flannel pads. For the most part I'm really happy with them. I just want to try all of the options and compare.

You guys really do answer everything. :)

shootingstar

02-29-2008, 12:53 PM

Gee --have to say I'm in perimenopause that has wonderfully calm..slow..fading away symptoms ....and just am not motivated to try something different.

firenze11

03-13-2008, 06:34 AM

I just got mine in the mail yesterday which happened to be the first day of my period. I found inserting it really easy and haven't had a leak at all (yet, fingers crossed). When I tried to take it out the first time I didn't break the seal properly and it felt like I was trying to suck my cervix out with it. (Sorry for the over-share) OW! That caused me to panic for a few seconds but I tried again and it was easier. I'm still not totally comfortable taking it out. But there is a learning curve. All in all I think it will take a bit to get used to it, but I will probably end up liking it.

I ordered it from lunapads and got the diva cup and lunapads pantyliners kit. Wow! The pantyliners are so so so comfortable. I never would have thought I would want/like re-usable pantyliners but they're my favorite thing right now. I wish underwear felt like this. So much more comfortable than disposable liners.
(And better for the environment, too, of course.)

Miranda

05-25-2008, 05:41 PM

Oh, this makes me sad. :( I'm in pain.

In preparation of trying a Diva Cup, I found the cheaper Instead soft cups. I thought they would hurt to place. That was fine. Shortly after, I started to get cramping. I do not normally get cramps at this point in my cycle. Came in direct correlation with placing the device.

I gave it a few hours, and then could feel some leakage. It came out fine. I could see that the cup had collected some liquid. But, it just leaked part of the liquid as well.

I know there are several tips in this thread with seating the products correctly. Or trying one, vs the other. But, omg... the cramping is not happy! On Instead's web site, it says this can happen.

I don't think this would be happy out riding. I really would like one of these products to work for me, but I think on cramping, they all would produce the same result? :confused:

Miranda :(

TahoeDirtGirl

10-16-2008, 02:24 PM

I am having the opposite experience ... I've been using a Diva Cup for about three years but I am about to toss it and go back to tampons. I had trouble with fit ... I bought the big one because I was over 30, but around my house we call that thing "the doorknob" because that's what it felt like. Even the smaller one feels too big to me sometimes, and sometimes it leaks because it just will not unfurl. (I also wrote the Diva Cup people to tell them that they should find a better way to describe when you might need the larger size, because what they had online sounded like, "When you get old and your vagina starts to turn into a giant sagging canyon to match your big fat hips ..." Wow, I feel empowered!)

Recently I am also finding that it is just plain uncomfortable. I have never found it to be as comfortable as promised, and it definitely never helped with my cramps -- I wear a pad instead if I am having really bad cramps. But in the last six months I have had two really awful leaking incidents, and I am too old for that nonsense. I have been using it on light days but those are the days when it is most uncomfortable, so I am about to just give up on it. Too bad, because the reusability appeals to the environmentalist and to the cheapskate in me, but I think I am just not shaped right for the cup.

I finally got to put my Diva to use. I was pretty much sold until I got these weird cramps. SO I figured out it was full. Emptied it. Put it back in, got weird cramps. Took it out. Left it out all night. Put it in this a.m. (no probs getting in, except after you shower it's a challenge bc of no moisture), and started getting the 'pelvic exam cramps'. Took it out. Mournfully put on a pad.

I can't wear a tampon. Don't want to go into why I can't. I bought the Model 2 of the Diva, bc I'm over 30 but never had a kid. Could it be that I'm too small? At least something on me is small. Guess vagina size is not correlated with shoe size :)

I'm going to call the customer line and see if they can help me out. I loved wearing it but I still have funny stomach muscle cramps right below my bikini line, like I held my pee too long. Weird. Ah well..I still liked it and boy, what a feeling not having to worry about when I stood up that the gush would occur. I hate that so much.

Miranda

10-16-2008, 02:58 PM

I finally got to put my Diva to use. I was pretty much sold until I got these weird cramps. SO I figured out it was full. Emptied it. Put it back in, got weird cramps. Took it out. Left it out all night. Put it in this a.m. (no probs getting in, except after you shower it's a challenge bc of no moisture), and started getting the 'pelvic exam cramps'. Took it out. Mournfully put on a pad.

I can't wear a tampon. Don't want to go into why I can't. I bought the Model 2 of the Diva, bc I'm over 30 but never had a kid. Could it be that I'm too small? At least something on me is small. Guess vagina size is not correlated with shoe size :)

I'm going to call the customer line and see if they can help me out. I loved wearing it but I still have funny stomach muscle cramps right below my bikini line, like I held my pee too long. Weird. Ah well..I still liked it and boy, what a feeling not having to worry about when I stood up that the gush would occur. I hate that so much.

TDG... I just went to my gyno this week for my annual and was telling him about my cup experience. I just love that man. He's a cyclists too, and so is his wife, whose also an MD. Now if he only did podiatry work for cycling, I'd have bike pain life kicked in the tail:p. I digress:rolleyes:...

:):cool:Please feel no privacy pressure to post here why as to what I say, but here's why he said it didn't work for me, fwiw...

(also thought I would post this, vs a pm only, since I think it is good "generalized" useful information for the thread that might help anyone else with my issue)

From my big babies, and very weak fashia tissue, I have had a couple prolapse repair surgeries. My docs told me with the weak tissue in my body, it would not last. A sure sign for ME that some part of my repair is coming undone is that the tampons lately have been hurting me again. Help doc... oh, no!, does this mean???....

Yes, part of my prolapse is re-occuring already *sigh*:(. The area is part of the front wall near the bladder. He said with the prolapse, it makes my cervix move down further towards the cup. If the cervix is pressured by the cup (and likewise other parts pushing the cervix down further in the vaginal canal), it will cause the cramping. Also, it puts the pressure on the bladder because it's not supported... and then is laying down on the cup object.

Reminds me of when I was pregnant and had my body filled up with babies. The baby would grow and be more pushed down on the organs. Bladder included... thus it makes you feel like you have to pee more often... as the bladder is not in it's normal state/capacity due to something pushing on it.

It really really sux as that cup is such a cool thing. The doc said one of his RNs uses it and just loves it. Crud, I wish it worked for me too:(.

TahoeDirtGirl

10-17-2008, 02:00 PM

No definately not a prolapsed problem. I never had kids and I always have problems during my annual exam (which I am happy to say, is no longer every 3 months as it has been for 5 years). I think I'm going to see if the good peeps at Diva can help me out, I emailed them, and see if I can get a model 1 to try out. Between the stress with my work and my personal life (aka divorce) I think the twink is just not happy about the diva. I thought about this as my gyn is always going...are you going to relax? And then it's "oh sorry..." Haha...Ah the Diva...it worked so well.

RoadRaven

10-18-2008, 11:03 AM

Sorry to interupt your conve, Tahoe and Miranda

:(

Mine broke last month - the little stem just snapped off
That happen to anyone else?

Blueberry

10-18-2008, 11:21 AM

RR-

I've not had that happen - that stinks! I'd email the company and see if they'll replace it - IMO they should. That really shouldn't happen.

CA

TahoeDirtGirl

10-19-2008, 09:51 AM

I think you could still use it if the tip broke off unless well...there isn't a bottom to it now.

I wore it the rest of the weekend and I think its adjusting. The benefit for me outweighs the cramping curve if you will. I tend to agree on the spinning thing, it's a little hard to do...

wackyjacky1

10-19-2008, 10:05 AM

I seem to remember reading that a lot of people cut the tip off, so unless there is a tear in the cup part, I would think it'd be okay to use.

I've been using the Diva for 3 months. No cramping for me, thank goodness. That could be a dealbreaker for sure. I've pretty well gotten the hang of using it by now, and I love the freedom it gives me.

RoadRaven

10-19-2008, 10:37 AM

You know, it never occured to me to try and use it without - I just tossed it
:(
However, I doubt it would have been useful stemless for me - my muscles snugged so tight around it that sometimes it would be difficult to find the stem... I'd hate to be messing around (LOL, literally) trying to find/grab the cup with no stem at all...

CA... hadn't occured to me to email the supplier and/or the manufacturor... I'll do that anyways I think. Thanks for the suggestion

Blueberry

10-25-2008, 11:01 AM

Has anybody else noticed that the website for the Diva Cup now suggests you replace the cup yearly?!?! That seems really strange to me (and somewhat contrary to their "cost savings" argument). Any good reason to replace it? Mine is now several years old, but doesn't get used that often since I only have 2-3 periods a year (on my Dr.'s orders, I take my birth control pills continuously).

CA

LoriO

10-25-2008, 03:05 PM

I cut the stem off of mine and find is a lot more comfie without it. I have never had a problem grabbing the end to remove the cup without the tip there.

The Diva is a godsend for me. I love not having to drag tampons around or forgetting to grab some before I leave the house. Just insert and go...love it!

The only time I had any leakage problem was in the beginning when I was learning how to put it in correctly and make sure that it had opened properly. The trick I found to getting it open if it seems to not want to unfurl is to start to remove it about half way and then reinsert, for some reason that seems to work for me.

sgtiger

11-15-2008, 04:11 PM

My Mooncup is here.:cool: I tried to like the DivaCup, but it was really uncomfortable for me no matter how it was positioned. I could feel the lip when it was in and I couldn't get it to completely unfurl either so I had major leak issues. After reading through this thread and finding some preferred the Moon Cup, I wanted to try one. Right off the bat, I noticed a difference in the feel of the material. The Mooncup is more supple than the DivaCup. The suppleness means that it's easier to keep folded during insertion - one of the major problems that I was having with the other. Ow!:mad: I purchased the size B in the Mooncup which is the smaller one because I think the other problem I had with the Diva is it may have been a bit to wide (model 2 - bigger size), thus the unfurling issue. Anyhow, the Mooncup unfurled right away and "disappeared." The cup itself seems shallower/shorter which is a bonus for me too. Now I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the better fit will translate into no more leaks. I'm really tired of having to use the super tampon with a maxi pad.

BTW, the company that I purchased the Mooncup from sent me two flannel reusable panty liners.

fidlfreek

11-15-2008, 10:56 PM

FYI, instead is good. However, as a small lady it felt like it was just too big. I will definitely try the softer option.

For the peri-menopausal...Another interesting option that your OBGYN might not know about. I heard this from a friend whose awesome doc did this to her last year. Its an outpatient procedure where you go in, they sedate you partially, and then fill your uterus with salt water and then zap the salt water (just quoting my friend!). Apparently this cauterizes your uterus and you are able to keep your ovaries and just stop the 2 week long bleeding cycles. Poof, no more period. WOW right. Google calls this Endometrial ablation. It also says you will not be fertile afterwards but what a great solution huh!

Karma007

11-24-2008, 01:24 PM

Long time diva user. LOVE it! I wore it a few times BEFORE I got my period, just to make sure I could get it in and out. I now swear by it.

alimey

11-24-2008, 03:28 PM

Decided to buy a Mooncup after reading about it here & after Boots started stocking it. Tried inserting it without a period just to test it - no problems, except the tail bugged me. I decided to get the smaller one even though I am 43 as I am small myself. So I cut the whole tail off & got it really nice & smooth.

It's great! Breaking the vacuum before trying to remove it is important & I think I can feel it - but I also think there's a reasonable chance this is just psychological. Really useful when travelling - you don't have to take loads of tampons with you - & you don't have to worry about tampon availability if you are in a really remote place.

I'm sold. But I won't be buying a new one every year (but I might buy an extra to put in my washkit)

zoom-zoom

08-07-2010, 03:51 PM

I have been trying the Diva Cup for the last few days--tired of dealing with tampons or having the string chafe my bits during rides.

Ok, so when I have gotten the cup where it belongs and had it successfully open it works well, but I can still always feel it...kinda like I have a golf ball crammed up my hoo-ha. Everything I read is that it shouldn't be felt if it's in properly and the right size. I have a tough time getting it to open, too, regardless of which fold method I use to insert. And it's sometimes kinda painful getting it in, much less trying to turn it to open. I keep seeing that one should be able to reach all the way in and feel the top edge--really?! Do I just have short fingers? I have a REALLY difficult time feeling for my cervix, too--always have.

This chart (http://community.livejournal.com/menstrual_cups/1285963.html) shows the Diva Cup as being the longest cup on the market, as well as one of the largest around. I almost wonder if it's just too big for me. The other day when I ran with it in it felt like it was working it's way down--THAT was not a pleasant sensation. I didn't really want to give birth to a little wad of silicone mid-run. :o

I went back to wearing a tampon today. I gave up after a sweaty and messy 10 minutes of battling to properly insert the cup and starting to make everything down there really uncomfortable.

moonfroggy

08-07-2010, 04:48 PM

i have the same problem with my diva, and it has worked it's way all the way down when it had been very high up to begin with. very unpleasant!

i have pondered trying a shorter wider brand of cup but have not got around to it yet.

badger

08-07-2010, 05:05 PM

This chart (http://community.livejournal.com/menstrual_cups/1285963.html) shows the Diva Cup as being the longest cup on the market, as well as one of the largest around.

who knew there were so many menstrual cups out there??

My first Diva cup was really hit and miss in terms of comfort and fit (sometimes it never inflated properly and leaked). I finally replaced it after about 4 years and the second cup is so different. Never a problem with leaking, and I hardly ever feel it (first one I cut the stem off completely, the second only one "notch"). Very weird.

zoom-zoom

08-07-2010, 05:07 PM

who knew there were so many menstrual cups out there??

I know! I was familiar with 3-4...that chart is overwhelming!

zoom-zoom

08-07-2010, 09:11 PM

OakLeaf

08-08-2010, 04:54 AM

FWIW, the Diva Cup never fit me as well or as comfortably as the Keeper did, either.

zoom-zoom

08-08-2010, 07:32 AM

FWIW, the Diva Cup never fit me as well or as comfortably as the Keeper did, either.

I think I may order the US Mooncup today (which is the same size as the Keeper). I love the idea of menstrual cups and the Instead Softcups worked OK, I just don't want to be constantly having to dispose of them.

sgtiger

08-08-2010, 10:52 AM

The Mooncup I purchased was the U.S. version. It didn't really work out for me either. I experienced major cramping with it in even though I couldn't really feel it in. I tried all the various ways of placing it that I found online but the cramping persisted. And if I found a placement where the cramping went away, it leaked to the point that I may as well not be using it at all. Oh, well... Back to tampons for me.

bikegurl

10-29-2010, 06:27 AM

I first heard about the Diva Cup on this forum when I was trying to figure out what female long-distance cyclists do for 'that time'.:rolleyes: (I am interested in doing some long distances) I just bought one, and it got here just in time! :p
I am so glad to have heard of it! No leaking (except when it didn't seat properly)
no pain or even discomfort after it "settles in" ;)
It is a little uncomfortable to insert and remove, but no mess!
I am so happy!
My mom wants one now :p

arielmoon

10-29-2010, 09:14 AM

I get a little leaking when my Diva cup gets full. Like overnight. I would have the same or worse with a tampon so I really dont complain.

I also saw a tip to use a little lube on the edges to make insertion a little easier. Diva makes one if I am not mistaken but I use my Emerita (http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/store/en/browse/sku_detail.jsp?id=JP-1015&sourceType=cs&source=FG&cm_mmc=Shopping%20Engines-_-googleproduct-_-Natural%20Lubricant%20-%202%20Fluid%20Ounces%20Gel%20-%20Female%20Intimacy%20Herbs-_-JP-1015&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=JP-1015)

abejita

10-29-2010, 09:51 AM

I got a diva cup for when I ride because the string of the tampon always chaffed me. The diva cup worked fine for riding, no leaks or anything, but I could always feel it there. I was talking to my gyn at my last appt and she said that I could just leave my nuva ring (birth control) in for four weeks instead of three and I wouldn't have a period...so that is what I do now.

rainleaf

02-14-2011, 02:33 PM

Sorry for bumping up an old post, but I just got my hands on a Divacup today (just in time, too!). Will let you all know how it goes.

redrhodie

02-14-2011, 03:09 PM

Sorry for bumping up an old post, but I just got my hands on a Divacup today (just in time, too!). Will let you all know how it goes.

Hey, mine just arrived today, too!

Grog

06-28-2013, 10:40 PM

I have to revive this thread because it's by far one of the best in the history of TE. And I am annoyed with myself just now.

I am sitting here in a new town, I happened to bring my Diva Cup with me when I moved but, very unfortunately, tossed the MoonCup (UK) when moving and trying to reduce clutter/duplicates. I have barely had a period in three years (pregnancies that miscarried, actual pregnancy, breastfeeding for a year and a half now.....), just used the occasional panty liner, so I have not needed to use a cup.

I had completely forgotten that the Diva Cup was actually the one that did NOT fit me well (as evidenced by my past posts in this thread) and that the MoonCup was the one I should have kept. Arggg!!

Anyway. It's uncomfortable, but I'll deal with it for tonight. Any clues where MoonCups (aka MCUK) can be found in brick and mortar stores in the USA now? SF Bay Area, to be more specific? Does Whole Foods have them?

Long live the cups! And this TE thread that never will die.

lauraelmore1033

06-30-2013, 10:32 PM

Sigh, just stumbled upon my dusty diva cup yesterday and threw it out. Will never need it again, as the plumbing that was a little too free flowing to make using it practicable was removed. felt weird, doing that...

colby

07-01-2013, 11:42 AM