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I’m new to menstrual cups, do you have any tips?
- Using a cup for the first time can require a bit of practice! Our cup includes guidelines to help you get started. Remember to relax as tense muscles can make it difficult to insert. To help you get started we created a blog on this topic full of menstrual cup tips - Read more here.
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How do I use the TOTM cup?
- It can take a few attempts to get used to a menstrual cup. To get started make sure you choose the correct size. Start by washing your hands and sterilising the cup in boiling water.
Choose to stand, squat or sit on the toilet to insert the cup. Fold the cup inward to form a ‘U’ shape.
Separate the labia and insert the cup in the vagina, toward the tailbone or base of the spine. The ideal placement of the cup sits lower than a tampon. Once inserted, release the cup. To ensure it is comfortably placed, try turning it 360 degrees. A correctly positioned cup will turn easily in each direction.
Please be aware that there are multiple cup folds. You might need to try different folds - you can find some cup folding tips here!
The cup can be worn for up to 12 hours, but for safe use, we recommend changing every 4-8 hours.
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What is the cup made from?
- The TOTM cup is made of FDA approved medical grade TPE. It’s BPA-free, phthalate-free, latex-free and rubber-free. It doesn’t leach chemicals into the body because it’s medical grade and is easy to sterilise, which is why medical grade TPE is used in hospital equipment.
We choose to use medical grade TPE because it's a soft and flexible material. It is also widely recycled so will not end up in the landfill.
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What size menstrual cup should I choose?
- Follow our anatomical size guidelines to get an idea of which cup size you will need (find this on our menstrual cup range page). Everyone is different so if you’re unsure of your size and need further assistance, please contact our team who will be happy to help.
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My cup is stuck, how do I remove it?
- If you cannot remove your menstrual cup it's important to breathe, stay calm and relax your vaginal muscles. Any tension or stress can make removal more difficult. Find a comfortable position and try to gently reach the cup. Lightly push your pelvic floor muscles to release the cup. Your muscles should push the cup lower and release the seal. Try a few pushes and remember to breathe and relax. If you are still having problems contact our team (we operate between 9 am - 5 pm Monday to Friday) or alternatively seek medical advice.
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How do I store the cup between periods?
- The TOTM cup comes with an organic cotton drawstring bag! Sterilise the cup and store in the bag between cycles. Avoid storing your cup in any air-tight containers (i.e Tupperware).
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How long can I keep the cup?
- The TOTM cup can be used for years and years (if excellent hygiene is routinely applied). If you notice a change in the shape or material of the cup, then it will need replacing.
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Can you get TSS when using a menstrual cup?
- There is a TSS risk associated with any intra-vaginal device including tampons, menstrual cups and contraceptive devices.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious illness. It is caused by a toxin produced by bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, which is commonly found in the skin, nose and vagina. TSS can occur in men, women and children. The risk of TSS is greater in adolescents and women under 30 than in older women. Although it is rare, it is important to know how to act if necessary. Recognition of symptoms and early treatment is important.
Symptoms that warn of possible TSS are sudden high fever (39 degrees or more) dizziness, diarrhoea, vomiting, fainting, muscle aches and skin irritation similar to sunburn. In more advanced stages of the disease, the skin might start to peel. Be aware that not all symptoms might be present. TSS can appear with your period or a little while later. It can advance rapidly with flu-like symptoms, to a serious illness with fatal consequences.
If you experience the above TSS symptoms while using a menstrual cup, remove it and seek medical advice immediately.
To reduce your risk of developing TSS using a menstrual cup we recommend to follow usage guidelines carefully. Remove and wash your cup at least every 4-8 hours. Always thoroughly sterilise the cup and wash your hands before and after handling the cup.
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How do I dispose of the TOTM cup?
- Our cup is made from medical grade TPE, which makes it both reusable and recyclable. For safe and sustainable disposal, sterilise your cup before recycling.
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How do I sterilise the TOTM cup?
- To sterilise the TOTM cup wash your hands and place the cup in a saucepan. Add enough water to ensure the cup is covered. Bring to the boil and allow to simmer for 3-4 minutes. Do not use abrasive cleansers or disinfectants on the cup such as tea tree oil. Allow the cup to cool off before using.
Remember to sterilise the first time you use it and at the end of every cycle.
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How do I remove the TOTM cup?
- To remove the TOTM cup, find a comfortable position. Place your index finger and thumb into the vagina to locate the handle or the bottom of the cup. Push with your abdominal/pelvic muscles for easier removal. Empty the contents into the toilet and wash the cup with clean (preferably warm) water.
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Can I use the cup overnight?
- You can use the TOTM cup overnight. If you are new to cups you might want to use this alongside a liner or pad to prevent any leaks. As the cup is an intra-vaginal device, our consultant Gynaecologist advises following the same rules that apply to tampons. Remember to remove every 4-8 hours. If this does not fit with your sleeping pattern then we recommend switching to pads at night!
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Is the TOTM cup hypoallergenic?
- Yes, our cup is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.
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Is the cup suitable for vegans?
- All TOTM period care including menstrual cups is registered with The Vegan Society. We are also PETA certified cruelty-free and vegan.
