Like many you may prefer using a menstrual cup instead of tampons or pads. Our Lunette menstrual cups are becoming more popular for our period due to their long lasting, eco-friendly nature. Although if you have an IUD there are some careful considerations you need to take before you use a menstrual cup. We explore these in this blog.
IUDs (Intra-Uterine Device) are an internal contraceptive device and, just like menstrual cups, are becoming more and more popular!
To find out more about them, check out our article ‘A Guide to IUDs’.
But is it ok to use a menstrual cup with an IUD? Since both sit inside of you this is an important consideration and you’ve probably heard mix stories from people who have used one or the other. Whether you’re using an IUD and thinking of getting a menstrual cup (or vice versa!), here’s what you really need to know:
Using and removing an IUD with a menstrual cup
- So, can you use an IUD with a menstrual cup? ABSOLUTELY! There are, however, some important considerations to make (to make sure your contraceptive and period power duo work harmoniously together).
- Firstly, it’s important you check the length of the string of your IUD. Also, that the device can move slightly - so be sure to check it regularly and ask your doctor if you’re unsure.
- When using a menstrual cup the string ideally sits above or inside of the cup. You can double check this after inserting your menstrual cup by running your finger around the edge and making sure you can’t feel the string.
- Your menstrual cup forms a slight suction on the walls of the vagina (which is how it sits nice, snug, and leak-free!). Lunette menstrual cups are designed to be super smooth with a good softness so it shouldn’t pinch your IUD string.
- If the string is too long you can also ask your doctor to shorten it a bit for you.
- Another thing to be a little more careful of is how you remove your menstrual cup if you do have an IUD. Since the menstrual cup creates that little bit of suction, you don’t want to forcefully remove it and accidentally tug on the IUD string (generally we advise no forceful movements around that area anyway!).
- As this study shows, there isn't scientific proof that tampons or menstrual cups could increase early IUD expulsion rates.
- Whether you use an IUD or not, but especially if you do, it’s important to break the seal of the cup as you are removing it which removes the suction effect.
- Simply squeeze the base of the cup as you are pulling it out to break the seal.
- For more information on inserting and removing your menstrual cup read our article ‘How to use’.
Should I wait between having my IUD fitted and using a period cup
Generally it’s good to wait a couple of weeks after getting your IUD inserted to start using a menstrual cup. The risks of difficulties are the highest right at the start and it’s good to give yourself time.
We always recommend having a chat with your doctor too so they can keep you advised and also possibly recommend shortening the IUD string length for you.
Please be aware that a newer study suggests an increased risk. https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/acog/86150
I have not had any problems using the cup with a copper IUD for over 3 years. That being said, I asked the doctor about using a cup when I had the IUD put in, and she basically said “I don’t know, I’ve never heard of any problems…”
Hi Gwen,
We are so sorry to hear you had this scary situation!
We advice to consult your doctor for the go ahead to use your IUD with a menstrual cup, and to have a doctor cut the strings of your IUD as short as possible before beginning use, and to monitor the strings regularly throughout your period. This information is found in the user guide included with every Lunette Menstrual Cup package. The suction isn’t so strong that it could pull the IUD out, and there is no evidence to suggest that menstrual cup use has an effect on early IUD expulsion, see study for reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22464406. The uterus actively pushes the blood out, which also affects the IUD. We will contact you via email for further information on how the IUD got removed, how long you have had this IUD, and the IUD brand.
Thank you!
Very Best,
Team Lunette
I have been using the Lunette cup for years and I loved it before! But it the suction pulled oh my iud in a very painful and scary way. I wish I was made aware of this before using the lunette cup and I want other women to know that I can happen! Please do not use one if you have an iud!
I use my cups, both sizes, with my IUD and no problems at all.
I am actually very glad that I am able to use a cup because as a lot of us IUD people know, those new to an IUD as I am (5 months in) benefit greatly from the cup as our bodies are adjusting to the IUD. It makes this transitioning period (no pun intended) much more bearable.