6 menstrual cups in the Kassensturz wringer
8.4.2021
Kassensturz, a Swiss consumer magazine, tried and tested six best-selling menstrual cups. None of them failed – but only two models convinced completely.
Finding a menstrual cup that’s right for you among a large selection is a challenge. The models not only differ in size and firmness but also in shape and colour. The silicone cups are a sustainable alternative to tampons and pads, as they can last up to ten years. You insert the folded cup into the vagina, where it unfolds and is held in place by your pelvic floor muscles. When the cup’s full, you can remove it, empty the blood and rinse before reinserting it. So much for the theory. In practice, however, not every cup is equally suitable.
Over a period of two months, 28 women tested six of the best-selling cups for Swiss consumer magazine Kassensturz (article in German). Each of these models is available in different sizes. This is important because women differ in anatomy, age or bleeding intensity. Prior knowledge of menstrual cups also varied within the test group.
The cups were evaluated using the following criteria: product information on the package or on the manufacturer’s website. Handling such as insertion, positioning and retrieval, comfort, and whether they would recommend the cup to others. The criteria was rated on a scale from 1 to 6 and added up into an overall score.
None of the tested cups failed.
Winner
4 out of 5 possible points were awarded to the Fun Cup by Fun Factory and to the OrganiCup. According to Kassensturz, Fun Factory’s soft and ergonomically shaped cup was barely noticeable when worn. It stood apart with its bright colours. Its asymmetrical shape, on the other hand, made it difficult for the women to position the cup. Kassensturz describes OrganiCup’s model as an «all-rounder cup». The silicone isn’t too soft and not too hard. It also impressed with its minimalist packaging and the simple design with the stem applicator. The majority of women testing recommend both cups.
2nd place
The Mooncup received 3,5 out of 5 possible points. According to Kassensturz, this is a standard model with a stem applicator and is the most expensive product in the test. To adapt to your needs, the stem applicator can be shortened with scissors. The illustrated instructions were a plus. Also, the product creates a strong vacuum. A negative was the firmness of the material and the thick stem.
3rd place
3 out of 5 possible points went to Me Luna and the Selenacup from Selenacare. The models with similar designs performed equally well. Both have a ring applicator, which makes for easy removal according to the women testing. However, some found this one too firm. The Selenacup came with a transparent cleaning container. According to the gynaecologist interviewed for this test, this isn’t necessary, though. Cleaning under running water and occasional boiling are enough.
4th place
The Always Cup from Always received 2 out of 5 possible points. The wide and difficult-to-fold cup opening as well as the firm material that caused pressure and pain while wearing it were criticised. Unlike all other models, the cup comes with a plastic container and not a fabric pouch.
Overall, the Selenacup, the Me Luna Cup and the Mooncup are recommended for beginners.
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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