Menstrual Cup for Teenagers: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you've just started your period or you've had it for a few years, you're not alone in looking for a period product that's comfortable, leak-free, affordable, and better for the environment. Menstrual cups are a safe and convenient option for many teenagers.

If you're wondering whether you're old enough to use one, how to choose the right size, or whether menstrual cups are suitable if you're a virgin, you're in the right place. This guide answers the most common questions from teenagers and parents to help you decide if a menstrual cup is right for you.

How old do you have to be to use a menstrual cup?

If you’re old enough to get your period, you’re old enough for a menstrual cup. You can use a menstrual cup for your very first period. For most people, this is around age 12, although some people get their period when they are 8 or 10 years old. 

The only requirement is that you feel comfortable using it. If the thought of inserting anything into your vagina, like tampons or menstrual cups, freaks you out, then try reusable period pads or period underwear, like Ruby Cup’s sustainable period underwear, to start with. Later on, you can always switch to menstrual cups. Many menstruators, especially those with heavier flow, like the added security of combining their menstrual cup with period underwear. Ruby Cup even offers a cost-saving Teenage Period Dream bundle to get you started with underwear and your first cup.

There is no medical age requirement for using a menstrual cup. If you get periods, then you are ready to start enjoying the many benefits of menstrual cups. Healthcare professionals generally recommend choosing a menstrual cup based on comfort, flow and anatomy rather than age alone.

What are the benefits of menstrual cups for teenagers?

Period cups are the perfect choice for teenagers. Here’s why:

Freedom. Properly fitted and inserted (more on that later), menstrual cups are:

• Leak-free.
• Less hot, less itchy, and less likely to cause irritation than disposable pads or tampons.
• Invisible, so you can wear swimsuits and those tight jeans, leggings, and thongs you love so much.

Savings. It’s true that your first menstrual cup’s cost can seem high, but menstrual cups:

• Pay for themselves in less than 6 months.
• Last up to 10 years.
• Leak less, so save you the cost of panty liners, laundry detergent, and ruined underwear and clothes.

Time. With a menstrual cup, you don’t have to run to the loo to change your tampon or pad every 2 to 3 hours. Menstrual cups save time because:

• You can wear them for up to 12 hours before emptying.
• You don’t have to waste time (or space) planning how many disposable period products you need to bring with you to school or on a trip.
• You won’t need to make as many trips to the shops to purchase disposable period products.
  

Environment. Ruby Cups are better for the planet because:

• They are plastic-free.
• They don’t contain harmful chemicals or dyes that end up in landfills, oceans, rivers, and streams. They replace approximately 2,000 disposable period products.

Comfort. Many Ruby Cup users, including teenagers, tell us they don't feel their cup once it's in place. Menstrual cups for teenagers do away with

• Chafing from pad wings or tampon strings when running or practicing high-impact sports.
• Bulky pads hogging up space in your skinny jeans.
• Some menstrual cramp pain, according to some menstrual cup users.

Health. Ruby Cups are a healthy and safe period product for teens because:

• They are made from non-toxic medical-grade silicone.
• They are vegan and BPA-free.
• They are strong enough to last up to 10 years without developing cracks or crevices that could harbor bacteria.
• They don’t have endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as phthalates, phenols, and parabens found in tampons and menstrual pads.
• They are less likely to cause Toxic Shock Syndrome than tampons. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare but life-threatening infection that can be caused by wearing tampons or a menstrual cup for longer than 12 hours.

Can virgins use a menstrual cup?

Even if you’re a virgin, you can still use a menstrual cup. And using a menstrual cup won’t rid you of your virginity.

You might think using a menstrual cup will take away your virginity because it could change your hymen. The hymen is a thin, elastic tissue at the opening to your vagina. If you’d like to know more, check out our dedicated post: Can virgins use menstrual cups?

But we’re here to bust the myth that confuses the concept of virginity with the presence of your hymen because they’re two different things:

1. Virginity describes someone who has never had sex before.
2. You can still be a virgin even if you no longer have a hymen. The hymen is so thin and elastic that you can stretch it and wear it away naturally through everyday activities like walking, playing sports, and riding your bike. 

Many people no longer have their hymen by the time they’re menstruating, yet they can still be virgins. So, your hymen is not proof of virginity.

And if you’re wondering if menstrual cups can stretch you out, rest assured, it’s another myth. Your vagina is an elastic tube made up of tissue and muscle, far more flexible than most people realize — a menstrual cup moves with your body, not against it.

How do I ask my parents for a menstrual cup?

It can be hard to talk to trusted adults about alternative period products, especially if you think your folks are old school. We get it. But remember, they grew up in a time when they didn’t have as much access to information as you have today. And they didn’t have menstrual cups either.

There’s no one way to ask your parents for a menstrual cup because everyone is unique, as are family dynamics. They might surprise you and jump at the idea. Or they might not even know menstrual cups exist.

Preparing a bit before talking to your adults may help the convo go a bit more smoothly. Here is our study guide so that you have the answers to  some questions your parents may have: 

• What is a menstrual cup? Yes, this may be their first question. You can explain it’s a small bell-shaped cup you insert into your vagina that collects your menstrual blood. 
• Is it safe? Your parents care about your health, so this will probably be one of their first questions. Explain to them that a menstrual cup is body-friendly and healthy. They are less likely to cause toxic shock syndrome, have fewer harmful chemicals than disposable products, and are not harmful. 
• How much will it cost? Make sure they know that while a reusable menstrual cup like Ruby Cup costs about the same as 3 or 4 months' worth of disposable pads or tampons and one cup can last you up to 10 years. Tell them to think of buying your first menstrual cup as a savvy financial investment. You can refer them to our post about product vs. period cost if they want to review how much they’ll actually save.
• Will you use it? They might want to be sure you’ll use the cup properly (especially if you want it to last for 10 years). Reassure them that Ruby Cup has a 120-day satisfaction guarantee, so you can still return your menstrual cup if you don’t like it, or exchange it for a better-fitting size. Show them through your actions that you’re responsible and mature enough for a menstrual cup. 
• What about your virginity? Some parents may worry that using a menstrual cup changes your virginity status. We’ve already busted that myth for you above so you can share what you now know. 

If you feel they still have their doubts about period cups for teens, no problem. You can share this article with them because we’ll cover tips for your parents below.

How to choose the best menstrual cup for teenagers

There’s no special menstrual cup that’s best for teenagers. A “teen cup” is just a marketing ploy. Your weight, height, and build do not influence the type of menstrual cup you’ll need. 

Instead, to find the right menstrual cup for you, here’s what to consider:

• The heaviness of your flow
• The height of your cervix

How to choose the right menstrual cup size for teenagers

Menstrual cups come in different sizes and shapes.  This influences their capacity for how much or how little period flow they can hold and for how long, without leaking. Menstrual or period flow is the fluid that leaves your vagina during your period. Your flow can be light, medium, or heavy and changes over the course of your period.

To find your ideal cup size, it's also helpful to know the height of your cervix. The cervix is a small muscular canal that connects your vagina to your uterus, sometimes called your womb. Your cervical height is the distance from the outside of your vagina to the tip of your cervix.

Not sure which menstrual cup size is right for you? Take our quick quiz — it only takes two minutes and will guide you to your perfect fit.

Take our Quiz  

You can also check out our full sizing guide to discover how to measure your cervix and choose the menstrual cup that’s right for you.

*If your menstrual flow varies during your menstrual cycle, get both size cups and use the one that matches your daily flow.

Why Ruby Cup is a good choice for first-time users

Once you've found your ideal size, it's time to choose a menstrual cup. Ruby Cup is designed with first-time users in mind thanks to:

• The ideal balance of firmness and flexibility. Ruby Cup is firm enough to stay securely in place while remaining soft enough to fold easily for comfortable insertion and wear.

• Two sizes to suit different flows and cervix heights. Ruby Cup comes in two sizes: Small is generally suitable for lighter flows and a lower cervix, while Medium is designed for heavier flows and a higher cervix. If your flow varies during your menstrual cycle, get the Ruby Cup Duo Pack, and benefit from both cup sizes at a discounted price.

Having multiple size options can be great for teenagers because your periods can be somewhat irregular the first 2-3 years of getting them. Some periods can be very heavy if you have gone longer than 4 weeks between your cycles.

• Trimmable stem. The stem is the part of the cup below the bell shape that you grasp to remove your cup. Even if your cup is comfortable and doesn’t leak, the stem may stick out. This can be uncomfortable. Fortunately Ruby Cups come with a trimmable stem. Here’s how to trim your stem:

- Wash your hands and the scissors or nail cutter you will use for trimming.

- Gradually trim to shorten the stem, starting with a small trim first, so you don’t accidentally get your stem too short.

• 120-day money-back guarantee. We know there’s a learning curve with first-time menstrual cup use. So you can try out Ruby Cup for a few menstrual cycles. If you need a different cup size or discover it’s just not working out for you, you can exchange or return it. No questions asked.
• Zero-waste and cruelty-free. Our vegan Ruby Cups are made from 100% medical-grade silicone and are plastic-free. With the right care, one Ruby Cup can last for up to 10 years.
• Life-changing donation program. For every Ruby Cup purchased, our Buy One, Give One program provides a second Ruby Cup to a person in need of safe menstrual products, providing menstrual cups for teens. You can change two lives with one Ruby Cup.
• Fuss-free. Wear your Ruby Cup for up to 12 hours for a leak-free period. Go for a chafe-free run, swim for hours without worrying about emptying your cup, and enjoy carefree outings with friends. 

How to use a menstrual cup for the first time

Learning to use a menstrual cup is the same for everyone, at any age. While you can read our complete guide on how to use a menstrual cup, we’ve put together a few tips on how to use your menstrual cup for the first time if you’re a teenager. 

1. Fold first. To insert your menstrual cup, you first have to fold it. While there are many folds, we recommend the 7-fold or the punch-down fold because they both create the smallest insertion points, ideal if you’re a teenager.
   
2. Get in position. Inserting your cup while you’re sitting over the toilet may not be the best choice if it’s your first time. It’s easier if you try to insert your cup while squatting down, raising one leg, or lying down on your bed. If you’re worried about making a mess, insert your cup when you’re under the shower. Don’t be afraid to sit down in front of a mirror for a visual.
3. Use a little water or lube. Water-based lube will help you have a smoother insertion. First, fold your cup, then rub a bit of lube on its rim. When you’re ready, use your free hand to spread your labia, your vagina’s lips, and insert your menstrual cup. Aim it horizontally back toward your tailbone,not up, like a tampon.
4. Create the seal. Once you insert your cup, it should pop open. To check, insert a finger and run it along the bottom of the cup. If it’s smooth, you’re good. If you find any creases, your cup hasn’t opened. But there’s a quick fix. Just twist your cup one way, then the other, until you feel it open. To check for the cup’s suction, gently tug on its stem. If you feel resistance, then congrats: you’ve successfully inserted your menstrual cup.

How to remove a menstrual cup safely

To remove your cup, all you need to do is break the seal.

1. Pinch the base of your period cup.
2. Keeping the base pinched, gently pull your cup down.
3. If your cup doesn’t slide down easily, try rocking your cup from side to side as you pull down.
4. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse with clean running water, then reinsert.
5. Have water handy. Whether you’re at school, away at summer camp, or out shopping with friends, eventually you’re going to have to empty your menstrual cup in a public bathroom. We know this can be intimidating, but it’s entirely doable. Just make sure you carry a small bottle of water with you on these occasions and use the water from your bottle to rinse your cup over the toilet. Then reinsert.

Hassle-free ways to use your menstrual cup out in public

For most people with periods, life does not stop when at that time of the month. Nor do you stay at home or get to skip school (bummer) when you have your period. So, chances are, you are going to have to take your menstrual cup on the road with you at some point, especially if you are as busy as most teenagers.

First, we’ve created a packing list of what to carry with you when using a menstrual cup outside of your home:

• Your menstrual cup carrying case or cloth pouch
• A water bottle for rinsing out your cup
• Cleaning wipes or gentle liquid soap (optional)
• Back-up pads or pantyliners if you aren’t wearing period underwear, like Ruby Cup’s period pants. (optional)
• Water-based lube for easy insertion (optional)

Now that you are fully kitted out, check out our full guide on how to clean a menstrual cup in a public bathroom. 

Teen menstrual cups: Our top tips for parents

Hello parents. Whether menstrual cups are entirely new to you or you're already using one yourself, you may be wondering whether they're suitable for teenagers and how you can support your child in deciding if a menstrual cup is right for them. These tips can help you guide them in making an informed choice.

• Be supportive if they’re ready. You may think your teen is too young. However, if they feel they’re ready and understand the responsibility of cleaning and sterilizing their cup, then let them start. Their maturity may surprise you. 
• If they’re not ready, don’t push. Some teens may not be ready to get so familiar with their bodies or periods. Respect their wishes when it comes to their first menstrual cup. They may change their mind later on, especially once they see their friends being so carefree while they’re on their periods during gym class, in the pool, or at camp. 
• Explore the options together.  There are more alternative period products today than when you were their age. Discover the options together, help them narrow down their choices, but let them choose. If you let them take responsibility for choosing a menstrual cup, they’ll feel more comfortable and empowered to use it. 
• Help them create healthy menstruation habits. In the beginning, you may have to remind your teen to empty their cup every 8 hours and sterilize it between periods. A Ruby Steriliser can help make cup-care easier. It’s a collapsible silicone container for your teen to boil their cup in minutes, just using water and the microwave. With a little guidance, you can help your teenager create good habits that will stay with them for life.
• Cheer them on through the learning curve. They may want to give up if they have trouble inserting their cup the first time. Reassure them the learning curve is normal and that up to 45% of people find it difficult to use a menstrual cup at first. Help them carry on by reminding them that everything new is difficult in the beginning. With time, patience, and perseverance, they’ll get it right. Talk with them about how to insert the menstrual cup correctly so that it is most comfortable and also troubleshoot whether they have a menstrual cup that doesn’t fit quite right. 

   

Discover the freedom of a menstrual cup (at any age)

We hope we’ve cleared up any doubts you may have had about menstrual cups for teenagers. Once you understand how your anatomy and a menstrual cup work, then you’ll be more confident to start using a period cup, no matter your age. 

For most teenagers, menstrual cups are a safe, comfortable, and sustainable way to manage their periods. The key is choosing the right size based on your flow and cervix height, learning proper insertion, and giving yourself time to get used to using one.

Here’s a quick recap to help you remember why menstrual cups are a great choice for teenagers:

• You can use your menstrual cup as soon as you get your first period. As long as you feel comfortable using a menstrual cup, age doesn’t matter.
• Menstrual cups can be more comfortable, produce zero waste, and are healthier for your body, the planet, and your wallet.
• You can safely use a menstrual cup as a virgin and using one won’t take away your virginity.
• There is no special menstrual cup for teenagers. Instead, just know your flow heaviness and cervix height to find the right-sized menstrual cup for a perfect fit. 

Remember to experiment with the various positions and folds when you use your menstrual cup for the first time. And don’t let the learning curve discourage you. We’ve all been there, and we’ve all overcome it. And you can, too. With the right fit and a little practice, many teenagers find that menstrual cups become one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to manage their periods. Don’t forget to share this post with your parents. There’s a special section just for them.