More and more women are discovering the benefits of a menstrual cup, but if you have an IUD, you may wonder if it is safe to use the two together. Some women are concerned about the threads of their IUD and the possibility that the menstrual cup could shift or even pull the IUD out. Fortunately, it is perfectly possible to use a menstrual cup and an IUD together, as long as you handle your cup correctly. In this extensive blog, you will discover exactly how you can safely combine the menstrual cup and an IUD.
What is a menstrual cup?
Let’s start with a brief explanation of what exactly a menstrual cup is. A menstrual cup is a reusable, flexible cup that you insert vaginally to collect menstrual blood, instead of absorbing it like tampons or sanitary towels. Our Beppy Cup is made of medical-grade silicone and lasts an average of six to ten years. This not only makes the cup more economical in the long term, but also more environmentally friendly than disposable products. Instead of having to buy thousands of tampons or sanitary towels, you only need to buy a few cups in your lifetime. Many women say that a menstrual cup is more comfortable and convenient during menstruation. But what if you have an IUD?
How do a menstrual cup and IUD work together?
There are two types of IUD: the hormone IUD and the copper IUD. Both variants are placed in the uterus and ensure that you do not get pregnant. One of the advantages of a hormonal coil is that it often ensures lighter or even absent menstruation, while the copper coil usually has no influence on your cycle. Nevertheless, many women with a coil still have some degree of menstruation.
But don’t worry, a menstrual cup and coil can be used together, there are a few things you need to take into account. For example, the threads of the coil are specially designed to be flexible and to move with you, so that you can easily check them.
How do you insert a menstrual cup safely if you have an IUD?
One of the most important considerations when using a menstrual cup and coil is the insertion process. Here are a few steps for insertion:
- Choose a soft cup: Soft cups are often more comfortable and exert less pressure in the vagina. Our menstrual cup is made of soft, flexible material and adapts effortlessly to your body.
- Insert the cup low in the vagina: When a coil is inserted, short threads are usually left behind to allow you to check whether the coil is in the right place. Try to insert the cup a little lower in the vagina, so that the vacuum does not come close to the cervix or the threads of your coil. This helps to prevent disruption of the coil.
- Fold and insert carefully: Use a folding technique that works for you (such as the C-fold or punchdown fold), and insert the cup gently. Avoid sudden movements to ensure that the menstrual cup and coil stay in place.
- Check the threads regularly: Feel whether the threads of your spiral are still in place. That way you can be sure that everything is in order!
What should you pay attention to when removing the menstrual cup?
In addition to careful insertion, removing the menstrual cup is also important. Here are some tips to do this safely:
- Release the vacuum: Gently squeeze the bottom of the cup to release the vacuum. This prevents you from accidentally pulling on the threads.
- Remove slowly: Pull the cup down slowly without sudden or rough movements. This ensures that the cup comes off evenly and prevents disruption of the coil.
- Check the threads: After removal, feel if the threads of your IUD are still in place.
Frequently asked questions about menstrual cup and IUD
To give you extra peace of mind, we have answered a few frequently asked questions below:
- Can a menstrual cup pull out my IUD?
- Many women fear that the vacuum of the cup could displace the coil or even pull it out. However, this is rare. The cup does not exert pressure on the coil if you carefully break the vacuum before removing the cup.
- Can I use a menstrual cup shortly after having a coil fitted?
- If you have just had a coil fitted, it is advisable to wait a while before using a menstrual cup. Consult your doctor about the recommended waiting period. Usually you can start using a cup after a few weeks without any problems.
- Does it matter which brand of menstrual cup you use if you have an IUD?
- Yes, it can make a difference. With Beppy, for example, we have extra soft, flexible cups with a handy removal loop, specially designed for comfort and safety. A soft cup with a loop can help with careful removal and offers a little more security than other, hard cups.
Order your Beppy Cup today!
Would you like to experience for yourself how comfortable the Beppy Cup is, even with an IUD? Take a look at our cups and make the switch to a more comfortable menstrual experience! Do you have any questions about our products or other topics? Feel free to contact us!
