Looking For Another Period Care Option? This Might Be It

So what are they?

As the name suggests, they’re a reusable menstrual hygiene device with a cup-like shape designed to be inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. Not all cups are made equal, so it’s important to do your research to find one that suits you best. Scarlet Period Cups are made using 100% medical grade silicone, free of chemicals and toxins, designed to last for years, not just hours. It features a soft, curved rim for a leak-proof seal, indented finger grips for easy removal and a flexible, soft stem to avoid any irritation.

“Wait, rewind – collect menstrual fluid?!” I hear you ask – yes, but it’s not like we're saving it for later. Unlike tampons, which absorb your flow and are disposed of after a single use, cups hold your flow for up to 8 hours, after which you then remove, flush the contents (not the cup!) down the toilet, clean and reuse again and again. If you’re the type of person that gets squeamish around blood, we’ll be honest – you might not like what you see when you use a cup. But if you can get over that, there are plenty of perks, including not having to buy a single tampon again.

Do cups leak?

If it’s inserted correctly and you’re using the right size, your menstrual cup shouldn’t leak. Scarlet Period Cups offer a large fluid capacity for 8 hours leakproof protection, and can even be used while swimming. The regular size is ideal for people under 30 and haven’t given birth, it has a 25mm capacity and holds up to the equivalent of approximately 2.5 regular tampons, while the large size is recommended for people who have given birth or are over 30, it can hold 35mm, approximately 2 super tampons. If leakage is a concern, you can always wear light absorbency period underwear or liners as a backup.

How do I use it?

Like anything, cups can take some time getting used to. For many people it takes practise to find the perfect method. You might find it easiest to fold the cup in half to insert, but there are multiple methods and online tutorials to help you. Once inserted, the cup should pop open to form a seal, but if you’re not sure it has, try gently rotating it from the base to find a better position for it. When it’s time to remove your cup, the most important thing is to relax. Your cup cannot get lost inside you! Use the stem of your cup to find the base (do not pull from the stem), pinch the base with your forefinger and thumb, then gently ease it out. Empty the cup into the toilet and clean with a mild, unscented soap, like Scarlet Cup & Hand Wash with Chamomile, before you use it again. You can also try Scarlet Period Cup Cleansing Wipes for when you’re out and about.

Simple, right? In theory, perhaps, but you never know until you try it yourself. Three of us put Scarlet Period Cups to the test – here are our exact thoughts:

First impressions of the Scarlet Kit:

Eliza: Love that it comes with wipes, not sure if I’d actually use the red zip pouch but at least it would be easy to find in my handbag.

Sarah: Adorable. Love all the thoughtful additions, including the little zip bag and storage pouch. Also, in my late twenties, I didn't think I'd still get this excited about stickers, but here we are!

Kirsty: The overall design and aesthetic was very nice. The branding is minimal which I like, and would appeal to both younger women and older alike.

Thoughts on the actual cup:

E: Love that it’s matte and opaque, wonder if they’ll release more colours… It’s sturdier than my usual cup which in my opinion is a good thing, others might disagree.

S: Wish I was half as bright and flexible as this cup.

K: The cup feels softer in material than other cups I have tried, although it is slightly harder/stronger silicone than past cups. I really like the two finger grips at the bottom of the cup, and the stem is much softer than other brands I have tried, which is appealing as they have not been as comfortable.

How would you describe your experience?

E: This is the second cup I’ve tried. The regular size is slightly wider and firmer than I’m used to but I was able to insert it properly on the first try each time, so I’d recommend it for confident beginners. I found removal easy thanks to the grips, and I had no problems with leaking. The wipes were also super handy when I was out.

S: It was my first time using a cup so it was a little daunting at first (it's not you, it's me). I have always had quite a light period and only ever really use liners, so this was new territory. The instructions are quite easy to follow, and just took a little practise.

K: I’ve tried other cups before and this one was similar in some ways; this cup is a slightly different shape than my last one (slightly shorter, slightly wider). I think I would like to have tried both sizes to compare because each brand is different and you never really know (I am getting close to 30 but no pregnancy yet, so I am kinda in between the two sizes). The texture of the cup is smoother and easier to insert and grip than others, however, the silicone is still quite firm which may be a con, as I find insertion quite difficult even with different techniques I have tried. Being able to fold up slightly smaller would be better for me. In saying this, I feel if anyone is trying to use it for the first time, it will take some patience and a few tries to get it right and get used to them.

Pros and cons of using the Scarlet cup?

E: Not having to buy tampons or pads again is a huge plus for me. I also feel more confident that I won’t leak with a cup. Only con for me is changing in a public bathroom – it just takes slightly longer and a little bit of mental prep too, especially if I’m not in the cleanest cubicle or I’m also trying to juggle wearing a jumpsuit etc.

S: The main pro for me was being able to reduce single-use waste by ditching the usual liners. I found it a bit awkward to remove, so that goes on my cons list.

K: Pros – versatile for all activities, basically replaces using tampons completely and lasts longer = win! The info they provided is very informative, and not confusing which is awesome. They have little infographics too which helps visual learners. Cons – getting used to changing/emptying in public bathrooms. Thankfully they include a really handy user guide which advises to carry water with you, and they also have disinfectant wipes which are super useful on the go.

Advice for anyone wanting to try a cup?

E: Research! Every body and every cup is different. Get experimental – find what works for you and don’t get discouraged if you can’t get it right, it does take time, but also listen to your body, cups might not be it for you.

S: Definitely give it a go! I spent ages wondering and curiously listening to friends who had already converted, and am glad that I now have it as an option for months when I feel I want to go the menstrual cup route.

K: For me, the environmental impact is enough to have gotten me started and I won't be looking back! Also sizing can be hard gauge, so you might not get it right the first time – read the guides and do your research and see if this item is suitable for you.