Whether this is your first time menstruating or you’re already pretty used to it, you’re probably wondering if there’s a better way to handle your period.

You want body-friendly and fuss-free periods, right? Maybe you’re even worried about your environmental footprint and don’t like the idea of throwing away so many chemical and plastic-filled products every month. That’s why a menstrual cup might be just for you. 

But first, you’ve got questions: is there a special menstrual cup for teenagers? How do you open the conversation about a period cup with your parents? And do you have to be a certain age to use a period cup?

Don’t worry, you’ll find answers right here. We’re here to help you enjoy a fuss-free, zero-waste period. Read on for answers to the following questions:

• Are you old enough to use a menstrual cup?
• What are the benefits of menstrual cups for teenagers?
• Can virgins use menstrual cups?
• How can you ask your parents for a menstrual cup?
• What’s the best menstrual cup for teenagers?
• How can a teenager use a menstrual cup?

Am I old enough to use a menstrual cup?

If you’re old enough to menstruate, you’re old enough for a menstrual cup. You can use a menstrual cup as soon as you menstruate, from your very first period. 

The only caveat is that you need to 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 panties to start with. Later on, you can always switch to menstrual cups.  

But if you’re curious and environmentally woke then using a menstrual cup is the perfect choice for a zero-waste and hassle-free period. 

What are the benefits of menstrual cups for teenagers?

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

• Freedom. Because menstrual cups are leak-free, you’ll feel freer and more confident while practicing sports. No more hot or itchy pads to fuss over. A menstrual cup won’t move or leak during sports, whether you’re kickboxing or kicking up into a headstand. 
• Savings. While a menstrual cup’s initial cost can seem high, it’ll pay for itself in less than 6 months. And a reusable menstrual cup means you’ll be saving your allowance to buy more important things, like video games or festival tickets—or whatever else you’re into!  
• Time. You won’t have to worry about changing a tampon or pad every 2 to 3 hours. You can wait up to 8 hours before emptying your Ruby Cup. Fewer bathroom breaks mean more time to party and hang out with friends. 
• Environment. Reusable menstrual cups are eco-friendly and plastic-free. One Ruby Cup can last you up to 10 years. 
• Comfort. No chafing from pad wings or tampon strings when running or practicing high-impact sports. No more bulky pads hogging up space in your skinny jeans. Some menstrual cup users even say they suffer from fewer cramps since using a cup. 
• Health. Menstrual cups are made from non-toxic and BPA-free materials, like thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and medical-grade silicone. You can also say goodbye to bleach and dioxins, which are commonly found in single-use pads and tampons. And menstrual cups have a much lower risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome than tampons because they don’t absorb your blood. They collect it. 

What if I’m a virgin? Can I still use a menstrual cup?

Being a virgin won’t stop you from using 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 (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. They’re two different things:

Virginity describes someone who has never had sex before

A hymen is thin, elastic tissue at the opening to your vagina

Your hymen is so thin and elastic that you can stretch it out and wear it away naturally, doing everyday things, 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 and can’t be stretched out (not even with childbirth). And a menstrual cup moves with your body, not against it.

How do I ask my mom or dad for a menstrual cup?

It can be hard talking to your parents 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. 

Some parents may surprise you and jump at the idea. Others don’t even know menstrual cups exist. 

There’s no one way to ask your parents for a menstrual cup because everyone is unique, as are family dynamics. However, you can be open and prepared. To help give them the facts, here are some questions your parents may ask you (with answers!): 

• 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. Enlighten them on how a menstrual cup is body-friendly and healthy, as we mentioned above. 
• How much will it cost us? If they’re going to be paying for your cup, they have a right to know how much it will 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, one cup can last you up to 10 years. 
• Will you use it? They want to be sure you’ll use the cup properly (especially if you want it to last for 10 years). Reassure them and maintain your promises. Show them you’re responsible and mature enough for a menstrual cup. 
• What about your virginity? Some parents may worry that a menstrual cup will destroy your virginity. We’ve already busted that myth for you above, and you can share what you know now, too. 

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

What menstrual cup is best for teenagers?

There’s no special menstrual cup that’s best. 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

Menstrual cups come in different sizes with different fluid capacities, higher for heavy flows, lower for lighter ones. And you’ll need to know the height of your cervix to find your cup size. Consult our full sizing guide to discover how to measure your cervix and understand which menstrual cup is 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.

Once you find your size, try a Ruby Cup. It’s one of the best menstrual cups for beginners and teens. Here’s why:

• 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. You can change two lives with one Ruby Cup.  
• Fuss-free. Wear your Ruby Cup for up to 8 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.   

Two sizes for every flow. Ruby Cup comes in 2 different sizes. Small for light flows and a low cervix, and Medium for heavy flows and a high 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.

Trimmable stem. You may find that even though your cup is comfortable and has the right capacity for your flow, the stem may stick out. But we’ve designed a Ruby Cup with a trimmable stem. Use a nail cutter to trim it to size, then a nail file to smooth down the edges. Your cup is ready to go. 

Greater comfort. Our flexible Ruby Cup moves with your body thanks to its medium firmness. Many Ruby Cup users say they forget about their periods when using a Ruby Cup. 

 

“I’ve used it for two years already. It took some adjusting time, but now I'm totally used to it, and forget I'm even on my period.” —Paula

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.

 

How to use a menstrual cup for the first time if you’re a teenager

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. 

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 folds because they both create the smallest insertion points, ideal if you’re a teenager. 

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. Use a position that will help open your vagina and give you easier access. Try 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.  

Use a little lube. Water-based lube will help you have a smoother insertion. First, fold your cup, then rub a bit of lube on the rim of your cup. When you’re ready, use your free hand to spread your labia and insert your menstrual cup, aiming horizontally and back toward your tailbone (not up, like a tampon).

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. 

Remove your cup. To remove, all you need to do is break the seal. Just pinch the base of the cup and, keeping the base pinched, gently pull your cup down. If your cup doesn’t slide down easily, try rocking your cup from side to side as you pull down. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse with clean running water, then reinsert.

Have H₂O 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. For more information, check out our full guide on how to clean a menstrual cup in a public bathroom.   

Period cup for teens: Our top tips for parents

Hello parents. Whether menstrual cups are entirely new for you or if you’re already using them, you’re probably wondering how you can help your teen understand if a menstrual cup is the right choice. You may also wonder if you’re ready for this next stage in your teen’s life. We’ve put together our top tips for parents of teenagers who may or may not want to use a menstrual cup.

• 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. Respect their wishes if you’re the one who prefers they use a 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 the period product of their choice. 
• 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 Sterilizer 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 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 and will be ready to face even bigger challenges in the future.

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. 

Here’s a quick recap to help you remember the freedom of using a menstrual cup: 

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 are a brilliant choice for teens because they can be more comfortable, produce zero waste, and are healthier for your body.

Your hymen and virginity are two different things. Your hymen is not proof of virginity and won’t interfere with using a menstrual cup if you’re a virgin.

Be honest and open when asking your parents for a menstrual cup. Make sure you give them the facts about how body-friendly a cup is because they care about you and your health.

There is no special menstrual cup for teenagers. Instead, just know the heaviness of your flow and your cervix height to find the right-size menstrual cup for a perfect fit. And try a Ruby Cup!

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.

And share this post with your parents. There’s a special section just for them.

FAQs

What’s the best age to start using a menstrual cup?

You can start using a menstrual cup at any age as soon as you menstruate. So, if this is your first period, then you’re old enough to use a menstrual cup. 

Can a 12-year-old use a menstrual cup?

If you’re menstruating, then you’re old enough to use a menstrual cup. Age, height, weight, or body shape don’t matter when using a menstrual cup. All you need to know is your cervix height and menstrual flow to choose the right cup. Check out our sizing guide to help you discover the right-size menstrual cup for you. 

Can a 13-year-old wear a menstrual cup?

There are no age limits to using a cup. The only thing you need is your period. To find the right-size cup, all you need to know is how heavy your flow is and if you have a low or high cervix. Check out our sizing guide to find the right-size cup for you.  

What size menstrual cup should a 14-year-old wear?

The size of a menstrual cup doesn’t depend so much on your age as it does on how heavy your menstrual flow is and on the height of your cervix. Use our sizing guide to help you find the right-size menstrual cup for you. 

Do menstrual cups hurt for virgins?

No. As long as you get a cup that matches your flow and cervix height, you probably won’t even feel your cup. If you’re a first-time cup user, experiment with different folds, and use a water-based lubricant on the rim of your cup to help it slide in.  

Can you swim with a menstrual cup?

Once you know how to use a menstrual cup, it’s the ideal period product for swimming on your period because it’s leak-free. For more information, check out our full guide on swimming with a menstrual cup. 

Can you practice sports with a menstrual cup?

Yes, because a menstrual cup can give you more freedom than either a pad or tampon. A menstrual cup will move with your body without leakage, so you can enjoy any kind of sport, worry-free. Ruby Cup is one of the best menstrual cups for sports enthusiasts and athletes.

How do you clean a menstrual cup in a public bathroom?

Carry a bottle of water with you when you’re on the go. Use the water to rinse your menstrual cup over the toilet. Or use a bit of toilet paper or a tissue to dab your cup clean, then reinsert. Check out our full guide on how to use a menstrual cup in a public bathroom.