The 5 Best Menstrual Cups for a Low Cervix (And Any Flow)

Most people haven’t ever thought about the height of their cervix before trying a menstrual cup.

Our answer is yes, yes, there are. We should know because we craft our menstrual cups to fit all body types and all menstrual flows. We also know that finding the right fit can take a bit of trial and error. So, we’re going to suggest some of our picks for those of you with a low-lying cervix, to hopefully shorten your trial-and-error period (pun intended).

Ruby Cup is dedicated to period education, eliminating stigma, and fighting period poverty, so of course we want you to have the best information possible to make the right choice of period products. As menstrual cup experts, we’ve selected five of the best cups, including Ruby Cup, made for people with a low-lying cervix — meaning a cervix positioned closer to the vaginal opening than average.

Quick Guide: Choosing the Best Menstrual Cup for a Low Cervix

  • Choose a shorter menstrual cup. If you have a low cervix, a shorter cup is generally more comfortable and less likely to protrude outside the vagina.
  • A trimmable stem can improve the fit. Being able to shorten or remove the stem helps customise the cup to your anatomy without sacrificing comfort.
  • The shortest cup isn't always the best. Look for the right balance of length, capacity, firmness and comfort based on your flow and body.
  • Measure your cervix before buying. Knowing your cervix height is the easiest way to choose the right menstrual cup and reduce the chances of leaks or discomfort.
  • Our top overall pick is Ruby Cup Small. With a trimmed length of just 46 mm, medium firmness and a generous money-back guarantee, it offers an excellent balance of comfort, capacity and value for most people with a low cervix.

Our Top 5 Menstrual Cup Picks for Low Cervix

Menstrual Cup Height
(without stem)
Capacity Best For Price
Ruby Cup Small ⭐ 46 mm 24 ml Best all-around balance of fit, comfort & support £25.95
MeLuna Shorty 35 mm 15 ml Most affordable; shortest option £16.95
Saalt Small 47 mm 25 ml Sensitive bladders; beginner-friendly £28.00
Merula Cup 39 mm 38 ml Heavy flow with a low cervix £23.00
Hello Low Cervix Cup 43 mm 21 ml Silicone allergies; no-stem preference £23.00

Not sure which cup is right for you yet? First, we'll explain what makes a menstrual cup suitable for a low cervix. Then you'll find our detailed reviews of each recommended cup further down the page.

 Ruby Cup menstrual cup benefits

But first things first, what is a low cervix?

Your cervix is a doughnut-shaped tube that connects your uterus to your vagina. With a low cervix, there is a shorter distance between your cervix and the opening to your vagina. This shorter distance means that there is less space in your vagina length-wise to fit a menstrual cup. That is why knowing whether you have a high or low cervix can help you know which menstrual cup is right for you.

It’s important to point out that your vagina is made of elastic, flexible bands of tissue and muscle, stretchy enough to allow a baby’s head to pass through. Your vagina can definitely stretch to accommodate an erect penis, a sex toy, and a menstrual cup.This is why using a menstrual cup will not stretch out your vagina. Your cup is less likely to leak when the walls of the rim are able to form a seal against your vaginal walls. Two GYN conditions can increase the likelihood that you have a low cervix:

  1. Retroverted or tilted uterus.
  2. Pelvic organ prolapse.
image of female reproductive system

 

Can people with a tilted uterus use a menstrual cup?

Yes. Some people with a tilted uterus, one that tips back toward your tailbone rather than forward towards your pubic bone, may have a low cervix. The medical term for a tilted uterus is a retroverted uterus. Our bodies are unique, so not everyone with a tilted uterus will have a low cervix. Whether you have a high or low cervix, know that you can use a menstrual cup with a tilted uterus, too.

 

image of normal uterus position and tilted uterus

Can people with prolapse use a menstrual cup?

Yes. Prolapse of the pelvic organs, according to NHS, happens when the womb (uterus), bladder, or bowel bulge down into the vagina. Prolapse is more common in people over 50. If you have prolapse, you may have a lower cervix. The relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments may:

  • Make it harder to get the right placement of a menstrual cup.
  • Prevent a good seal, increasing the chances of leaking.
  • Make it more difficult to keep the cup inside your vagina, where it is most comfortable.

If you know you have prolapse, you could talk with your healthcare provider or a pelvic floor physical therapist about whether they think a menstrual cup could work for you and if pelvic floor physical therapy could help. In general, if you have prolapse and want to use a menstrual cup, choose a shorter, wider-diameter cup with suction holes to ensure a good seal.

Why is getting a cervical height measurement before buying a menstrual cup a good idea?

Because fit matters, just like it does when picking out the perfect pair of jeans. With an ill-fitting menstrual cup, you might not fall in love with your menstrual cup and give up before experiencing how great the right-fitting cup can be. For example:

  • If your cup isn’t in the right position, it may leak. A menstrual cup needs to sit just below your cervix to have the best cup seal. Without a good cup seal, you may have leaks.
  • If your cup is too big or pushes against your cervix, it may feel uncomfortable or crampy.
  • If your cup is too small or does not have a long enough stem, it may move too high up into your vagina and be more difficult to remove.

How do you know if your cervix is high or low?

Taking a cervical height measurement can tell you whether you have a high or low cervix. Don’t worry, no special equipment or rulers needed – just a clean finger can help you diagnose whether or not you have a low-lying cervix. So, after you wash your hands:

  1.  Insert your index finger into your vagina. Once you feel your cervix, which some people say feels like touching the tip of a nose, stop. If you can only insert your finger up until the first knuckle, you have a low cervix.
  2. If you are able to insert most of your finger up into your vagina before feeling your cervix, then you have a high cervix.

There is lots to know about your cervix before using a menstrual cup. Did you know that the position of your cervix moves over your cycle? Your cervix is at its lowest point in your vagina right before and after your menses.

For the most accurate measurement, we suggest measuring your cervix twice:

  1. Once at the beginning of your menstrual cycle
  2. Again, at the end of your cycle.

Use the smaller of the two measurements to determine your cervix height measurement, then refer to our menstrual cup sizing guide to find the right cup for you.

cervix measuring guide 

How do you insert a menstrual cup with a low cervix?

Whether or not you have a low or high cervix, menstrual cup insertion remains the same. If you have a low cervix, it may be easier to insert a menstrual cup that is:

  • Shorter
  • Has a trimmable stem.

Ruby Cup Small is perfect for a low cervix and measures only 46 mm after trimming the stem from the bottom of the cup.

If you have determined you have a low cervix because you have measured your cervix, then just follow these steps to correctly insert your menstrual cup:

  1. Wash your hands (and sterilise your cup before using it for the first time).

  2. Find a comfortable position. Putting one foot up on the edge of the toilet, chair, or tub can tilt your pelvis and open your vagina for easier (and more comfortable) access to your cervix.

Ruby Cup Tip: Squatting can also bring the cervix lower/more accessible, making insertion a breeze.

  1. Fold your cup for easier insertion. Ruby Cup has great instructions and helpful videos of 3 popular folding techniques to help you get your cup right where it should sit.

Ruby Cup Suggested Folds:

  • The C-fold
  • The Punch-Down fold
  • The 7-Fold
  1. Insert the cup into your vagina. Taking a deep breath and trying to relax your pelvic floor muscles as you insert can make things a whole lot more comfortable, but we understand that this is easier said than done.

Ruby Cup Tips:

  • Try to aim your menstrual cup horizontally (not up like a tampon), back towards your tailbone.
  • Apply some water-based lubricant or just water to the rim of your cup to help it slide into your vagina more easily.
  • Remember, no matter how far you insert your cup, it can’t get lost inside your vagina.
  1. With a low cervix, you may not need to insert your menstrual cup as far as you think. The entire cup and stem should fit within your vagina, with nothing (even the stem) sticking out. To check that you have a good seal, gentle tug on the cup or stem. Good news if you feel resistance, like the cup is pulling back; that’s the wonderful power of suction, and you are good to go!

Ruby Cup Tips:

  • Keep a finger inside your vagina to check that your cup is sitting below your cervix.
  • Circle your finger around the cup rim to make sure there are no bumps, creases or folds, which could mean your cup is not open all of the way.
  • Rotate your cup until you hear or feel it pop open. This may be more difficult to hear or feel with softer cups.
  • You can also tilt the cup from side to side to make sure stubborn folds unfurl.

Do menstrual cups work differently with a low cervix?

No. It may take a little longer to fit the right fit or right cup location if you have a low cervix, but menstrual cups work just the same for people with low cervixes. Regardless of your cervix’s height, menstrual cups like Ruby Cup offer a great way to take care of your monthly flow without harming your body or the planet. 

What is the best menstrual cup for a low cervix?

The best menstrual cup for a low cervix is not necessarily a smaller one. What matters is its length. If you have a low cervix, a shorter cup will feel more comfortable. Also, look for a short cup with a stem you can trim. This type of cup will suit a low cervix, even if you have a retroverted uterus.

Detailed Reviews of Our Top 5 Picks

Here are our picks for the top 5 menstrual cups that work well with a low cervix

1. Ruby Cup

Our Ruby Cup is a Goldilocks cup that works for most people. Here’s why the Ruby Cup Small is the best menstrual cup for a low cervix:

  • Right height: Ruby Cup Small is 65 mm tall, but you can trim the stem to shorten it or remove it completely for a 46 mm cup. 
  • Comfortable firmness: Each Ruby Cup has a medium firmness, which works well across a wide range of body types and cervix heights. It’s soft enough to easily fold, making insertion easier, yet firm enough to create a seal and stay in place.
  • Perfect capacity: Made for light-to-medium flow, one Ruby Cup Small holds up to 24 ml and can be left for up to 12 hours before emptying. 
  • Eco-friendly: Ruby Cup is 100% plastic-free, reusable, and can last for up to 10 years.
  • Body-friendly: Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, all Ruby Cups are completely vegan and free from harmful toxins like phalates, VOCs, and dioxins found in tampons and pads. 
  • Affordable price: Ruby Cup is affordable and costs about 4-5 months’ worth of disposable tampons or menstrual pads, yet it is reusable again and again. 
  • Money-back guarantee: We give you the freedom to try your cup on for size. If your Ruby Cup is too small, exchange it for a bigger size. Or if it’s too big, return it within 120 days for a full refund. 
  • Buy One, Give One programme: For every Ruby Cup purchased, we donate another to a person without access to period products. You change two lives for the price of one Ruby Cup. 
Ruby Cup menstrual cup in red with cotton bag and cardbox


Ruby Cup Small Overview

Model: Ruby Cup Small

Height: 65 mm (2.56 in)

Height without stem: 46 mm (1.81 in)

Capacity: 24 ml (0.81 fl oz)

Price: £25.95

Get your Ruby Cup today

2. MeLuna Shorty

The German-made MeLuna cup has a dedicated range of low-cervix menstrual cups called the MeLuna Shorty. Within the Shorty range, you can pick from 3 size options, 3 softness options, 3 stem types, and 3 different color options. How’s that for a buffet of choices?

Pros: 

  • MeLuna Shorty Small is the tiniest cup on our list.
  • Cheapest cup on our list of menstrual cups for a low cervix.
  • Shorter ball stem allows easier removal than no stem, but is still short enough to avoid discomfort.
  • Good pick for those with prolapse.

Cons: 

  • Due to its small size, leaks are possible on heavy-flow days with the Small MeLuna Cup.
  • No bundle discounts or starter package options.
  • None of the MeLuna Cups are returnable. 
  • No donation program.
MeLuna Shorty

MeLuna Shorty Overview (with ball handle)

Height: 42 mm

Height without stem: 35 mm

Capacity: 15 ml

Price: £16.95

 

3. Saalt Small Menstrual Cup

Menstrual cup reviewers describe the Saalt Small menstrual cup as beginner-friendly and very comfortable, thanks to its “soft” firmness option. This makes it a favorite for people who have experienced cramping, pressure, or bladder sensitivity with firmer cups. Saalt cups are also available in a rainbow of fun colors.

Pros: 

  • Reviewers say the cup has good suction and feels secure.
  • Trimmable stem.
  • Of the cups picked for people with a low cervix, Saalt Small has a medium capacity, good for both light and moderate flows.
  • Saalt is a B-Corporation.

Cons: 

  • People with heavy flows report having to empty the Saalt Small more frequently.
  • Suction is too strong for some users, who report difficulty with removal at first.
  • Most expensive out of our 5 picks for cups for a low cervix.
  • No returns unless unused and within 90 days of purchase
Saalt Cup Small

Saalt Small Overview 

Height: 70mm 

Height without stem: 47 mm

Capacity: 25 ml

Price: £28.00


4. Merula Cup (One Size)

The Merula Cup is one of the most uniquely shaped cups of our top 5 picks. It is shaped more like a shallow, round bowl rather than a taller, bell-like shape. This means it is much shorter while still offering good capacity for heavy flow days. The company claims that it offers the one-size fits all (although they do have an XL option) because its shape works for both high and low cervix positions and “all condition of pelvic floor muscles.”Made with 100% medical-grade silicone, this menstrual cup can be used for up to 10 years.

Pros: 

  • Shallow bell shape ideal for low cervix fit.
  • Adjustable ladder stem that you can trim to the first, second, or third rung.
  • Good capacity for heavy flows (up to two tampons worth).

Cons: 

  • Merula doesn’t recommend cutting off the entire stem, as removing the cup may be difficult without it.
  • One size may not work for all.
  • Restrictive return policy – only if unopened and within 30 days of purchase.
  • No donation program.

 

Merula Cup

Merula Cup (One Size) Overview

Height from the first rung: 72 mm 

Height from the second rung: 61 mm

Height from the third rung: 50 mm

Height without ladder stem: 39 mm 

Capacity: 38 ml 

Price: £23.00

5. Hello Low Cervix Cup

Unlike our other 4 picks for menstrual cups for low-cervix, the New Zealand company Hello period makes their menstrual cups from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). TPE has the advantage that it becomes softer as it warms to your body temperature. Some users find this a more comfortable option. Hello period cup fans with low cervices also appreciate the “no-stem” option, avoiding the need for trimming.

Pros:

  • Hypoallergenic for those people who may be allergic to silicone.
  • Users say firmness allows cup to open easily and cuts down on leaks.
  • Recyclable, unlike other menstrual cups made from medical-grade silicone.
  • Company is certified Climate Neutral.

Cons:

  • TPE is firmer than silicone. While it may become softer in your vagina at body temp, softening can cause shifts in location or breaking of the seal.
  • Low cervix model is not available in Small Size, only Medium and Large.
  • Lifespan of only 5 years.
Hello Cup Low Cervix

Hello Low Cervix Cup Overview

Height: 43mm

Capacity: 21ml

Price: £23.00

Best menstrual cup for a low cervix: Which one is perfect for you?

The good news is that there are plenty of menstrual cups to try, even if you have a low cervix. Most importantly, don’t give up if your first try at a menstrual cup doesn’t work. Leaks or discomfort can be solved, and sometimes it just takes a little experimenting to find the best menstrual cup for your low cervix.

Best all-around cup that checks every box: Ruby Cup Small. The best menstrual cup for a low cervix that offers a trimmable stem, affordable price, abundant support, a generous exchange and refund policy, and a donation program. 

Note: at 46 mm trimmed, Ruby Cup Small isn't the absolute shortest option here — MeLuna Shorty and Merula trim shorter. But an ultra-short cup isn't automatically the better choice: less length can mean less capacity and a less secure seal. If you have a very low cervix and light flow, MeLuna Shorty is worth trying; if you want more capacity with still-short dimensions, Ruby Cup Small's trimmable stem gives you room to dial in the right length.

Most affordable menstrual cup for a low cervix: MeLuna Shorty Low Cervix Cup.

Best menstrual cup for heavy flow and a low cervix: Merula Cup (One Size)

 

Ruby Cup menstrual cup

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FAQs About Menstrual Cups for a Low Cervix
How do I know if I need a short menstrual cup or a regular cup?

Measuring your cervix is the easiest way. A provider may tell you that you have a low cervix or tilted uterus. You may also notice that larger menstrual cups stick out from the opening to your vagina. Most people with a cervix that sits one knuckle or less inside the vagina during menstruation will usually find a shorter cup more comfortable.

How do I measure my cervix height at home?

With your own index finger. Read how, in our guide with helpful illustrations.

How far should I insert a menstrual cup if my cervix is low?

As far as you can comfortably insert the cup. It is not inserted far enough if any part of the cup or stem extends outside of your vagina. The cup should sit below your cervix, not around it.

Menstrual cup vs. disc for a low cervix?

Disc users like how they sit higher up in the vaginal canal than cups, allow penetrative period sex, and sometimes have a higher capacity, depending on the size of your menstrual cup. The cons of a menstrual disc for people with a low cervix are:

  1. Discs must be tucked up behind the pubic bone - a trickier placement that users report can sometimes feel uncomfortable.
  2. Discs can pop out from behind your pubic bone, leading to unexpected leaks that users call “autodumping.”
  3. Discs are larger and can feel bulky in people with smaller vaginal canals and very low cervices.
What is the safest way to correctly trim my menstrual cup stem?

Not when you are wearing the cup, first of all. Try wearing the cup a few times before trimming, especially if you a first-time cup user. Use clean, sharp scissors and trim in small amounts, because you don’t want to cut the stem too short.

Why does my menstrual cup leak with a low cervix, and how do I fix it?

The most common causes are:

- The cup isn't fully open
- Your cervix is sitting inside the cup
- The cup is positioned too high or too low
- The cup is too long or too short for your anatomy

Read Ruby Cup’s Guide to How to Fix a Leaking Cup.

Can I have sex with a menstrual cup or disc if I have a low cervix?

Menstrual cups should be removed before penetrative vaginal sex. Some menstrual discs can be worn during penetrative sex, although movement may occasionally cause leaks or dislodge the disc.

Is it safe to use a menstrual cup with a low cervix?

Yes. There is no increased risk of infection or toxic shock syndrome if you have a low-lying cervix, provided you follow the manufacturer's instructions and empty, clean, and sterilise the cup as recommended.