What Size Menstrual Cup Do I Need?

Finding the right menstrual cup size can be the difference between all-day comfort and constant worrying. But with so much talk about cervix height, firmness, flow and sizing charts, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors that can help you choose the right menstrual cup size for your body and lifestyle.

Let’s find your perfect fit.

The Quick Answer 

Menstrual cup sizing isn’t an exact science. It depends on your cervix height, pelvic floor strength, and a bunch of other body quirks that can shift with age, childbirth, or how often you smash out your Kegels.

If you don’t have time for the full lowdown (though it’s worth the read), here’s the simplified breakdown:

Size Cervix Fit Pelvic Floor Capacity Trends 
Small Low Toned 18 ml Under 25s
Medium Medium Toned 24 ml Over 25, not given birth
Large Medium to high Relaxed 30 ml Over 50, given vaginal birth

What Affects Menstrual Cup Sizing?

The good news is that there are really only two things that matter most when choosing a menstrual cup: your cervix height and your pelvic floor strength.

Cervix height – this tells you how long your cup should be
Pelvic floor strength – tells you how wide your cup should be 

Both of these can be influenced by age, childbirth and general muscle tone, but they don’t follow a strict rule. You could be in your forties with a high, strong pelvic floor, or in your twenties with a low cervix and relaxed muscles. Everyone is different.

Can Teens and under-16s use Menstrual cups?

If you’re under 16 and your body’s still developing, we recommend starting with the Mini or Small cup. These are designed with younger users in mind and offer the most comfortable fit.

You can skip the rest of this blog for now,  but as your body changes and you move into adulthood, feel free to come back and explore your options again. We’ve got you covered every step of the way.

 Cervix Height

The cervix is connected to the top of the vaginal canal and is the lowest and, narrow part of the uterus (womb).

Your cervix height plays an important role in how a menstrual cup sits within your body as if you have a high cervix height you may opt for a shorter or longer cup do that it sits comfortably and stays put.

If you are under the age of 16 and your body has not fully matured yet you should opt for the mini or small cup and ignore the rest of the blog. but as yoru body chaged into adult hood you can totay refer back to this! 

How to Check Your Cervix Hight 

 Checking your cervix height may sound tricky, but it’s actually quite easy.

Step 1 – Find a Comfortable Position

Start by either squatting or propping one leg up on the bathtub or a toilet seat.

Step 2 – Insert a Clean Finger into your vagina  

Insert a clean finger into your vaginal canal and feel for the cervix, which feels like a small, firm nub.

Step 3 – Notice how far your finger goes

  Based on where you feel your cervix, you can determine your cervix height:

  • Low Cervix – If you feel your cervix just after inserting your finger up to the first knuckle.
  • Medium Cervix – If your finger goes up to the second knuckle before feeling your cervix.
  • High Cervix – If you need to insert your finger almost fully to feel your cervix, you likely have a high cervix.

This changes slightly during your cycle, so check during your period for the most accurate result

 

Do Age or Childbirth affect your cup size?

Yes, but only as one piece of the picture. If you’ve had a vaginal birth, or you’re over 30, your cervix may sit slightly lower and your pelvic floor might be more relaxed. This can affect cup sizing, but it’s not the whole story. As discussed above choosing a menstrual cup on based off your pelvic floor and cervix height is more accurate.

If you’re very active, do strength training, or regularly practice pelvic floor exercises, you might find a smaller size works even after birth.

Matching LU Cup Sizes to Your Body

LU offers three sizes to suit different cervix heights, flow levels and comfort preferences.

Size Cervix Fit Pelvic Floor Capacity Trends 
Small Low Toned 18 ml Under 25s  
Medium Medium Toned 24 ml Over 25, not given birth
Large Medium to high Relaxed  30 ml Over 50, Given vaginal  birth 

Still not sure?

If you’re new to cups, LU Medium is a great place to start. It fits most bodies and offers a balanced size with strong sealing and easy removal.

Pelvic Floor Strength

Your pelvic floor muscles help keep your cup in place. A stronger pelvic floor creates more support and smaller width cup may suit you better.

Childbirth, age and high-impact exercise can all affect your pelvic floor, but not always in predictable ways. If you’ve had a vaginal birth, or you’re over 30, you might have less tone, but if you are a  Kegel exercises pro, your pelvic floor may be very strong even if your in your 50s and had 4 kids.

What matters most is how your body feels and how your cup performs once it’s in.

How To Check Your Pelvic Floor Strength 

Not sure how toned your pelvic floor is? A simple Kegel test can give you a good indication.

Step 1 – Contract:
Imagine you’re trying to stop the flow of urine or prevent passing gas. Squeeze and lift the muscles around your vagina and anus.

Step 2 – Hold:
Keep the contraction going for a few seconds while breathing normally. Don’t hold your breath.

Step 3 – Release:
Relax those muscles completely and notice how easy or difficult it is to let go.

If you struggled to hold for more than 6 seconds, or found it difficult to control the contraction, your pelvic floor might be on the weaker side – and a larger cup size might be more suitable for you.

Other signs of a weaker pelvic floor include sudden urges to wee or leaking when you laugh, sneeze or exercise.

What If I Choose the Wrong  Menstrual Cup Size?

 

Ultimately, comfort is key when choosing the right menstrual cup size. You might want to try a couple of different sizes or styles before you find the one that feels perfect for you. Remember, a well-fitted cup shouldn’t cause discomfort and should stay securely in place without leaking.

 Finding the right menstrual cup size can be a bit of trial and error, but understanding these factors can help guide you to a size that fits comfortably and works well for your body. Most menstrual cup brands offer a range of sizes to help accommodate different body types and preferences. Here at LU, we offer Small, Medium, and Large options to ensure a comfortable, leak-free fit.

A well-chosen menstrual cup can empower you to handle your period with ease, confidence, and sustainability, no matter where your life or adventures take you!

Quick Period Cup Sizing Questions

Can I use a cup with an IUD?

Yes, but speak with your GP or nurse if you want to check your string won’t interfere before you do. 

Can I switch sizes depending on the day?

 Absolutely,  Some people use a Small at the end of their cycle and a Medium or Large for heavier days.

How should the cup feel when its in?

You shouldn’t feel it at all. No pressure, no slipping, no poking. If it’s in correctly, you’ll forget it’s there.

Help my menstrual cup feels wrong!

Don’t panic,  your body’s just letting you know something’s off. A menstrual cup should feel snug but not noticeable once it’s in. If it feels uncomfortable, try reinserting it lower and then check it’s fully open. If it still feels uncomfortable, it may be too big. A little bit of trial and error is totally normal but if something feels wrong trust your body!

How to Insert a Menstrual Cup

How to Insert a Menstrual Cup, From the first fold to finding the right position, this guide breaks down how to insert a menstrual cup with ease for beginners. Learn the best folds, angles, and troubleshooting tips.

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How Does a Menstrual Cup Work

How to Use a Menstrual Cup , and how do period cups work? Learn how they work, step-by-step instructions for use, long-lasting, eco-friendly, and cost-effective protection that’s perfect for active lifestyles.

Menstrual Cup Leaking?

Dealing with a leaky menstrual cup? Learn why it happens and how to fix it! From ensuring it’s fully popped open to mastering the seal, discover practical tips and techniques for a leak-free, confident period with your menstrual cup.

Menstrual Cup Pressing on Your Rectum

Is your menstrual cup making you feel like you need a poo or pressing on your rectum? Learn why this happens and how to fix it! Discover tips for adjusting cup placement, choosing the right size, and relieving discomfort for a comfortable, leak-free period.

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