Menstrual cups are a reusable alternative to disposable menstrual products like tampons and pads. They collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. Menstrual cups come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and capacities to accommodate different flows.
Typical Menstrual Cup Capacities
The average menstrual cup holds 20-30 ml of fluid. However, cup capacities can range from 10-38 ml depending on the brand, model, and size:
- Small cups: 10-20 ml
- Regular/medium cups: 20-30 ml
- Large cups: up to 38 ml
For comparison, a regular tampon absorbs around 5-10 ml and a super tampon about 10-15 ml. Pads generally hold about 20 ml.
Factors That Affect Capacity
Several factors influence how much fluid a menstrual cup can hold:
Cup Size
Cup size is the main factor affecting capacity. Larger cups have a greater diameter and height to collect more menstrual fluid. Smaller cups hold less.
Cup Shape
The cup’s shape impacts capacity too. A V-shaped cup may hold slightly less than a bell-shaped cup of the same size. However, shape preferences are individual.
Cup Firmness
Softer cups tend to have a lower capacity since they compress when inserted. Very firm cups hold their shape and may accommodate more fluid.
Cervix Height
Low cervix users may need a shorter cup with a lower capacity. Taller cups suit those with a higher cervix and can hold more fluid.
Flow
Those with a heavy flow generally need a higher capacity cup compared to light flow users. However, emptying the cup more frequently can allow those with heavy flow to use a smaller cup.
Choosing a Cup Capacity
Choosing the right cup capacity for your flow takes some trial and error. Here are some tips:
- Track your flow – note heavy days vs light days
- Start with a medium/regular cup size of around 20-30 ml capacity
- Size up if your cup overflows before the recommended emptying time
- Size down if your cup is mostly empty when you go to remove it
- Give a new cup 2-3 cycles before changing sizes
Remember that you can pair a cup with a pad or period underwear as backup on heavy days. The cup capacity guides are just starting points to narrow your options.
Menstrual Cup Capacity by Brand
Here is the approximate capacity range for popular menstrual cup brands:
| Brand | Small Size | Regular/Medium Size | Large Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| DivaCup | 10-20 ml | 20-30 ml | 30-40 ml |
| Lunette | 15 ml | 20 ml | 25 ml |
| Saalt | 10 ml | 20-30 ml | 30 ml |
| Lena | 10 ml | 20 ml | 30 ml |
| Flex | 12 ml | 23 ml | 26 ml |
| Ruby Cup | 10 ml | 20 ml | 30 ml |
| OrganiCup | 15 ml | 20-25 ml | 30 ml |
| Super Jennie | 15 ml | 25 ml | 35 ml |
| Merula | 20 ml | 25-30 ml | 38 ml |
This table shows the range of capacities for each brand’s small, medium/regular, and large sizes. Specific models within a brand may vary slightly. Refer to individual product descriptions for the exact capacity of a certain cup.
Comparing Menstrual Cup Capacities
Looking at menstrual cup capacities across different brands shows some trends:
- Small cups range from 10-20 ml capacity
- Medium/regular cups are around 20-30 ml
- Large cups go up to 30-40 ml capacity
- More bell-shaped cups like Lunette may run smaller
- V-shaped cups like DivaCup have higher capacities
- High-capacity cups like Merula hold up to 38 ml
- Firmness and dimensions impact capacities too
While comparing capacities can help narrow your options, keep in mind your individual flow, height, activity levels and other preferences when choosing a cup. The capacity guides are a starting point but comfort, ease of use, and fit matter too.
How Much Fluid is Normal During Your Period?
Menstrual flow varies greatly among individuals. Here are some averages:
- Light flow: less than 20 ml per cycle
- Moderate/average flow: 20-60 ml per cycle
- Heavy flow: 80+ ml per cycle
Tracking your fluid loss each cycle can help determine if you have a light, moderate or heavy flow. Comparing this to menstrual cup capacities can guide you in selecting the right size.
How Often to Empty Your Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cup companies recommend emptying your cup every 4-12 hours, even if it’s not full. More specifically:
- Every 4 hours on heavy days
- Every 6-8 hours on moderate days
- Every 10-12 hours on light days
Ensure you remove, clean and reinsert your cup by the suggested time frame. This helps prevent leaking and buildup of bacteria. You may need to empty it more frequently than the recommended capacity on very heavy days.
Choosing Cup Capacity for Heavy Flow
Those with a heavy flow generally need a higher capacity cup that can hold 30ml or more. Good options include:
- DivaCup size 2 – 30-40 ml
- Super Jennie – 35 ml
- Saalt Regular – 30 ml
- Lunette XL – 25 ml
- Merula XL – 38 ml (highest capacity cup)
Pairing these high capacity cups with a pad or period underwear on your heaviest days can help prevent leaks. Also be diligent about emptying your cup often, every 4 hours or less.
Finding Low-Capacity Cups for Light Flow
Those with a light flow can opt for a smaller cup with less capacity. Good low capacity choices include:
- Lena Sensitive Small – 10 ml
- OrganiCup Mini – 15 ml
- Ruby Cup Mini – 10 ml
- Femmycycle Teen – 15 ml
- Intima Ziggy Soft – 15 ml
Low capacity cups require less frequent emptying on light days, up to every 12 hours. Just keep an eye out for any overflow/leaking, which may signal to size up.
How to Measure Your Menstrual Cup Capacity
You can measure your cup’s capacity at home to get an exact number:
- Fill a measuring cup with water
- Submerge your menstrual cup in the water
- Mark the water level
- Remove your cup
- Note the difference in the water level – this shows your cup’s capacity
Repeat this a few times to get an average capacity measurement. This can give you a more precise capacity rather than relying on the advertised capacity range.
Tips for Maximizing Menstrual Cup Capacity
Here are some tips to help your menstrual cup hold the maximum amount of fluid:
- Insert it low – Positioning the cup low in the vagina ensures it catches all flow.
- Rotate to seal – Gently twist the cup to create a tight seal against the vaginal walls.
- Choose the right size – Consider your flow and cervix height to pick the ideal capacity.
- Try a different fold – Some folds allow the cup to open more and collect fluid better.
- Check placement – Make sure your cup has fully opened and isn’t tilted or squished.
- Relax – Being relaxed aids insertion and allows the cup to open easily.
Conclusion
Menstrual cup capacities vary across brands and sizes, typically ranging from 10-38 ml. While comparing capacities can help choose a cup, also consider factors like flow, activity, height, and comfort. Track your cycle to determine light, moderate or heavy flow. Select a low, medium or high capacity cup accordingly, starting with medium as average. Remember to empty your cup regularly every 4-12 hours. With some trial and error, you can find the perfect cup capacity to make your period easier.
