I FINALLY bought a Diva Cup....(why didn't I do this sooner????)

[gillmings]

I've wanted to try the Diva Cup or Keeper for years, but just kept putting it off, partly because of the initial investment (which isn't really that much!). FINALLY ordered one and used it for the first time yesterday.

Here's a link for newbies: http://www.divacup.com/

For heaven's sake, why did I not do this SOONER?!?! This thing is so easy, the instructions are comprehensive and everything I've heard people mention as concerns are totally addressed. If you really follow the directions, it's pretty foolproof. The learning curve is significantly shorter than I expected and I'm sold.

Last month, I was extremely frustrated on a road trip, not really being able to get to a bathroom as often as I needed and now that's not a problem anymore. To only have to deal with it once in the morning and then before bed is totally worth it. LOVE IT!

(Last time this was discussed on here, someone mentioned the suction being so strong it could damage -- you just have to break the suction! Like when you're nursing, you don't just pull the baby off the breast without breaking suction first, or it's gonna hurt! I read the instructions completely a few times before I needed to use it, so I was really prepared.)

[signlady52]

Well, I'd never heard of that - don't need it now but sure could have used it years ago. Glad it's working for you!

[ckmoskal]

I have been curious about this, too. I'm glad to hear another positive testimonial for it. I'm getting closer to getting one for myself. How do you think it would work for my 13 year old? I'd probably wait a few more months for her, she just started her TOM this winter. She's been wanting to try a tampon, but didn't like the initial pain. I wonder if this might be an option for her in the summer.

[Nikki Dawn]

I am so glad someone brought this up. I wondered about it myself. I was telling my dh I thought about getting one for my dd in another yr because she is getting to that age. I worried about a younger person doing it.

Also my friend said this could seriously hurt someone with a prolapse or cause one. I have so worried about that suction that I was afraid to use the one I bought after my sister told me to get one. So Moyne, I know I am being forward but how do you break the suction. I think I am going to pull mine out and give it a try.

The other question is do you really only need to take care of business 2x a day? If so who would want to be hassled with money and bulk of other products.

Thanks for putting this on here. I was also wondering about cloth pads if anyone has experience with that. I figure I am not going to waste more money on fem products. With the cup I might not even want to know. Lol!

I will report when I try it for those of you wanting another review.

[Nikki Dawn]

Cassie, from the reviews it says that tampons absorb all the moisture causing pain because it makes you dry. The cup does not do it so it will not cause pain. I would try it on your dd. I hated being that age in school. If you do try it on her report back, I would love to know for sure if the reviewer is right.

[MoTappin]

So...should I get one? Hmmm. Sometimes my flow is lighter, other times not. Since I entered peri-menopause I seem to go back and forth from heavy to light periods. Is this still easy to use during the lighter times? I would love not to have to mess with a pad, especially when working out! And only 2x a day, really? Even if the flow is heavy?

I don't like tampons and haven't used them in years, mainly because I don't like the idea of shoving cotton up there to soak everything up. Ew. Aside from getting it in there, this "catching" idea seems more appealing.

[Elizabette]

I've had a ton of questions about those too! I think a lot of us appreciate this thread!

I have been curious but I thought they must be really hard to place. I also wondered how gross it would be to take it out at the end of the day. I use tampons but I agree, they do get uncomfortable.

[Callicrowe]

If you read all the information on the website, it does say that heavy days might require more than two times a day. Anyone who has questions about it should read all the information on the website... it's very thorough. Although I'm no longer in need of this, I find it fascinating and would recommend it to others to check out.

[Harnser]

:thinkingabout:Well I have tried a similar device and without wanting to put a damper on the proceedings despite various attempts it was never really comfortable and with a heavy flow needed changing frequently and I found it awkward to do. I am admittedly a clumsy individual but sorting it out at work in a public loo was a deeply unpleasant experience. I was sad about that as the concept appealed to me and I hate the thought of all those nasties ending up in the sea!:(

[Nelie]

Sounds great...but I dont need it either anymore! I prefer that option! lol
Nancy

[gillmings]

Okay, so from the literature, the Diva Cup can hold almost the total amount of the average woman's flow FOR THE WHOLE PERIOD. It's not as much as we think it is. I think it looks like more than it really in a cotton product. I'll let you know what I experience. I usually have 24 hours of really heavy flow, then taper down quickly and spot for the next few days. I used it for the first 24 hours, which was REALLY light and no problem at all -- way better than a tampon drying you out and there's not much there. So, I'm still testing, but it makes sense to me that 12 hours would be realistic. (And, in light of my hormone research, if your flow is heavier than that, you might want to be looking into progesterone supplementation.)

If you're going to give it to someone young, I'd get real familiar with it myself first, so I could give good support/instruction. If you're not familiar with your body, you'll get that way quickly, unless it scares you.

To break the seal, you press in one side, until it releases. Alternatively, I think you could slide your finger all the way up if you had to and hook it under the edge. I was concerned about it coming out during a BM, but the seal is really powerful. They say you have to always check the little holes around the rim, too, to make sure they're clear and they tell you how to test it on your hand, to make sure it releases before you insert it.

I think I got everyone's questions. I'm planning to update my experience and apologize for TMI, but there's not much other way to discuss it! LOL

[gretchikin]

*note* I was doing other things while posting.. It sort of makes sense... * :)

I <3 my DivaCup. Well, not s'much the whole kinda-annoying TOM that accompanies it... lol. I've used it for years now (not when pg of course lol! and sad I couldn't technically use it right after birth.. arg pads..)

Here's my deal. I start off the first day or 2 really heavy. Like, back in the day soak-through-a-super-tampon-in-less-than-2-hours-AND-have-to-have-overnight-pad-for-backup heavy. With the DivaCup on my first day for sure I have to empty it more often than every 12 hours. I'd suggest to have a liner for backup while you're getting the hang of it. I've had leaks from not inserting it correctly, but still way better than the disposable alternatives.

IF it happens to need to be changed when I'm not at home, I just search for those family type bathrooms with an enclosed toilet/sink with a door. :) But, really--it's rare to have to do it in public. Although I HAVE had to change it in the gym once after a swimming class.. and shhh I did it in the shower over the (nasty) drain. That actually worked quite well. lol

I got mine at Whole Foods but found them online for like $17! If I remember where that was, I'll post it.

The suction isn't uncomfortable at all. In fact, you can insert it and practice without having TOM going on. I insert it the day I *think* I'm going to start just so there's no mess. No pain, sometimes I forget it's there. Personally though I take it out during a BM. Just seems weird.. lol And yes, just kinda "pop" the seal by pushing on the side(s) before taking it out. It could and sometimes is messy, but it's more natural to not have chemically altered things inside, and "catches" any clots to help ease cramping too--wonder what happens with clots with tampons? get shoved back in there? ?

There's no way I'd ever go back. :)

[gillmings]

Is the only time you had leaking when it wasn't correctly placed? The impression I got from the instructions is that it never leaks if it's in right and even if it were "full", it still acts like a plug and wouldn't leak. The seal is so strong that I can see it could easily be true.

[gretchikin]

yeah only when it wasn't correctly placed. And although i wish there was a little jig you could do to wiggle it in place, um, there's not s'much (if you know of one let me know!) you have to take it out and try try again. lol

[thadine]

Thought I'd chime in with my experience, too. I have used a Diva cup for years and would never ever go back to pads or tampons. I have had them leak occasionally, either due to being inserted incorrectly or overflowing. As for improper insertion, it is very easy to check. Just give it a twist once it's in place - it should turn quite easily. If it doesn't, it's not properly placed. As for overflow, I now know to empty it more frequently on my first day or two. I agree, it's not so pleasant if you need to do it in a public bathroom. In fact, I was thinking of getting a second one so that I could just use the spare, and then be able to wash the used one in the sink.

I know that the site says they're suitable for all ages, but I think young girls may be intimidated by the size. Many of my friends don't even want to use tampons because they don't like the idea of putting anything inside themselves, so I know for sure they wouldn't even contemplate a diva cup. It's totally comfortable, and if inserted properly you shouldn't feel a thing, but you know... some people can't get past the psychological aspect.

[thadine]

Just a further thought to my last post...

For those who are not comfortable having to empty it out in a public bathroom, there is no reason why you can't just use the Diva Cup at night, and go back to your usual methods in day time for the first day or two of heavier flow. I love the fact that you can sleep with the Diva Cup. I absolutely hated having to use pads at night, and always had all sorts of mess from them. With the Diva Cup I get a comfortable night's sleep.

[MommyRose]

Someone above mentioned concerns with using a cup if you have a prolapsed uterus. I'd like to weigh in on that a bit.

I've never used a reusable cup like the Diva but I have used and really really liked the Instead Soft Cup disposable product. http://softcup.eu/ This would be an option for those on the go that don't want to deal with cleaning their Diva.

I had to stop using the Instead after my c-section. It no longer worked for me...a messy thing to discover...trust me. ;) So this thread got me thinking "why?" On the Instead page they say not to use it if you've ever been told you have a "tilted" uterus. I have learned that 'tilted uterus' is modern medicine's name for 'prolapsed'. Why do they do this? I do not know. But in my experience doctors do not educate nor guide women who are prolapsed. Surgery is 'their' answer and they have no guidance as how to fix or prevent (In my experience). With each of my 4 babies I was told my uterus was tilted, which of course meant nothing to me. Fast forward to a few years ago when I learned I have a stage 2 prolapse and I now understand why I cannot use the Instead anymore. Now that I have my prolapse under control I was wondering if I could go back to using an Instead or Diva type product again. I did some google searching on this last night. My insides are in place BUT can be prolapsed fairly easily so I do have to be careful. What I found is that using the Diva Cup or Instead product made people's prolapses and retroceles worse and in some cases were painful. Several on the thread said their prolapses were lower after using a cup with their cycle then without the cup. So I will not be using them again.

I wanted to share my thoughts and experiences with you all. For, as wonderful as these products are (and trust me...I really miss it) if you have a hint of a prolapse or the thoughts of one I would deeply and seriously consider it. A prolapse is NO FUN to deal with and a lot more inconvenience and pain then tampons or a pad.

[gillmings]

Just a caveat: Instead disposables are completely different from the Diva Cup or Keeper. They fit and are worn in different places/ways. Instead sits right up against the cervix,while the Diva/Keeper is worn in the vaginal canal, much lower down. Instead has more incidences of leaks, also, as certain activities, such as a BM, can release one edge for spills, but they it goes back into place afterward. You also don't have the "seal" that you do with the Diva/Keeper. Instead can be worn during intercourse, where Diva/Keeper is totally in the way and would prevent it.

I was told years ago that I have a "tipped" uterus, which my Dr. explained just meant it leans to one side until my pregnancies would get to a certain stage and the weight of the baby would cause it to lean the other way. He said it meant nothing to ME, just that his examination technique would be slightly different because it makes it a little tougher to examine in it's tipped position. I do not believe I have a prolapse and I know that the midwives who delivered my last child would have told me if I had something like that. I don't know if/how that may relate to your experience, Rose. Either way, the Diva Cup is working just fine for me.

I feel like this thing is total genius. I would have SO loved to have had it when I was a teen, but I may have had a hard time figuring it out at first.

I have discovered that you could really practice your Kegels with this thing. You can both push it (almost) out and pull it all the way back in with your vaginal muscles. The seal stays intact, so I think the muscle is what you're moving, it's not actually sliding up and down the vaginal wall. But remember those weights you can buy to do the same thing with? Don't they use that to HELP with prolapse issues?? It certainly gives you muscle awareness in the area, if you choose to focus on it.

[MommyRose]

I agree, Insteads are different from the Diva's but have similarities and similar warnings. I did not have any problem with leakage using them and thought they were fantastic until I had my 3rd child. My aunt who'd had 5 kids tried them on my recommendation and could not use them.

From what I have read and understand a "Tipped" uterus does not always mean prolapse. However, in a high percentage of cases those that have a prolapse had a tipped uterus and having a tipped uterus can be a warning sign of caution. Prolapses in different degrees are much more common then people give it credit. If I'm prolapsed my lower back hurts, my neck gets out, my feet ache, I'm constipated, have migraines, bloat, etc. When I'm put back in place (thanks to a genius Somatic Therapist) then all those aches go away.

Can Mid-wives miss something? YES--If they can miss a breech baby they can miss a prolapse. Can a prolapse develop weeks, months & years after having a baby? YES. Moyne, I'm not saying you have a prolapse because you have a tilted uterus. But, there can be connections according to my research.

My post was in response to this:

Also my friend said this could seriously hurt someone with a prolapse or cause one. I have so worried about that suction that I was afraid to use the one I bought after my sister told me to get one.

And I'm basically saying take caution. It's good to be aware that we can cause ourselves a prolapse. Am I saying don't use the Diva Cup? NO. But, I think its good to know that those with prolapse say its made theirs worse. Also, if the product doesn't work for you then internally something could be wrong for you. After my research and my practical knowledge of the last few years I agree with Nikki's friend...the cup could seriously set someone with a prolapse back. I also see how its possible to tip someone over the edge if its used improperly or they have a difficult learning curve. I don't even think I have to pass this one by my therapist...which is good cause I think it'd be an awkward conversation. ;)

So if its working for you then COOL and happy usage to you! But wanted to post my thoughts and caution. I so wish I could use it. As I wish I could hold my 5 year old without prolapsing...but I digress.... ;)

[Nikki Dawn]

Wow, what discussion. My friend said it was the suction pulling on the uterus that caused the problems not actually having it in. I guess if it is used improperly it can cause problems. I heard one person say in a review if the holes were not free and another didn't release the suction and um, pulled it out. Yikes! Guess that is why I asked about the experience.

Rose, I would love to know what your therapist has to say. Very strange conversation to have with him but since he is setting those parts it will be fine.

Thanks for all those giving advise! I love hearing how people love these. I think the price went up to around $25 from what I can tell. I paid around $18 for mine when I got it.

Thanks for letting me know you can test the suction on your hand also.

[MommyRose]

I will see what he has to say Nikki. See how much our friendship means to me??? ;) Not sure when I see him next...maybe this week. I'll let you know when I find out.

Yes, it is the pulling that I would be cautious of versus having it in. I agree with your friend. Not everyone has the abdominal wall strength and support to help work it out and that is where I'd advise caution. Know the strength of your insides I guess!! :D

[WendyD]

Ok, I tried this years ago and I have a tilted uterus, but not a prolapsed one. With that being said, I really can't get the thing in right and it didn't seem to work for me. I adore the idea and really tried to work it all out but the hit or miss for me got tiring and I quit using it. I could also feel it and that drove me nuts.

I know iherb.com sells them.

[gretchikin]

my friend has a uterus issue (lol all this prolapsed/tilted/turned/tipped talk has me confused..) and she uses Mama Cloth for part of her cycle when she can't use the Diva Cup--she described it as her uterus starts out ok for the DivaCup for the first bit and then her flow tapers and her uterus tilts back so then she uses the Mama Cloth (just got them this past cycle and she loves them). So.. now aren't I informative with my vague description... lol! But I suppose this is just more anecdotal evidence that it doesn't necessarily work for everyone. lol.

Hmm.. spins easily when it's in right? Really? Mine seems, um, stuck and won't spin...

[NDgal]

They make different sizes (one for pre-child and one for after-children, etc.)... I love mine. I did clip the little tag on the bottom, however because it rubbed a bit when I sat down.

[Nikki Dawn]

Rose, I am feeling the love!

Wendy, you never bothered giving me this info lol! Being prolapsed and tilted has me all confused.

Greta, gotta check out the Mama Cloth. I hope these are not super pricey. I declare someone is taking advantage of women's needs.

[MoTappin]

I just ordered one today. They are under $19 on Amazon. I do have a slight tilt to my uterus but we'll see how this goes. I'll check out the Mama Cloth too.

[cbuffy]

Be sure you come back and tell us your experience! I have a slightly tipped uterus (according to the OB when I was preggers with my first 23 years ago...) Sounds interesting! Although I agree having NO TOM would be the optimum!

[thadine]

[COLOR=blue]
Hmm.. spins easily when it's in right? Really? Mine seems, um, stuck and won't spin...


Well, not really "spin". I mean, it's a snug fit and shouldn't just twirl around freely, if you know what I mean. But you should be able to rotate it smoothly.

[branichar]

I have not been brave enough to use a Diva Cup yet, though I am intrigued. I HATE tampons, so I am not sure how I will like this. I do however, use cloth pads and I love them! My periods have been shorter and less crampy and much more comfortable.

[gillmings]

On the issue of turning the Diva Cup, I have found that the second application method outlined works better for me, otherwise there is too much seal and the suction that creates keeps it from turning easily.

You fold it and insert just until the top part is in, then let it unfold right away and kind of turn it while you continue inserting it in the open position. This has worked much better for me and and it easily turns. The other way, sometimes I couldn't get it to open all the way, the seal was creating suction trying to let it open that far in. (Clear as mud?)

From the comments on the uterus/proplapse issues, this would seem like the "safest" application method. Making sure it's completely open and being able to turn it easily are how you know the seal is correct. The other way creates a suction for ME. Clear as mud?! LOL

[Nikki Dawn]

Mud, Moyne! Y'all are clear as mud! I am still trying to figure out is you are to turn it or not. Mud!

Brandy, do you make your own cloth or recommend a brand? Seems most reviews complain of traveling. Noone wants to constantly be arranging things.

[mom2mollie]

I love the Diva Cup! It has taken me about 6-7 cycles to get totally comfortable with using/inserting/turning it. My periods have gone from 5-6 days to 2.5 days, and from horrid cramping with nausea and vomiting to very mild cramps for one day. I wouldn't have been able to use it before I, ahem, got married, though, if you KWIM.

[MoTappin]

Yeah mom2mollie, me neither. LOL I've never been a fan of tampons but I haven't even tried using one since I started having kids, and I assume since I've had 3 babies now, the Diva Cup shouldn't be that big of a deal! :D I actually am kind of excited to try it for my next TOM.

[gillmings]

Yes, Nikki, turn it! (I just edited my last post for spelling, so hope that helps.)

Feel free to e-mail or PM me for more "detailed" instructions....:)

[branichar]

Nikki, I have made some of my own, but prefer to buy them. I have never had a problem with mine moving around. I bought mine from Pink lemonade (www.thepinklemonadeshop.com) and Mother Moon pads on Etsy. I really like both a lot. The other ones that are really popular are homestead emporium and tallulah bean, but those are both more expensive. Let me know if you have anymore questions.

[thepurplepoodle]

I bought one two months ago. I like it but am still trying to adapt to the learning curve a bit. I ended up not really being able to use it much last month because I had the flu and a terrible cough. I'm still getting over the cough. But all that coughing was a bit annoying with the DC. I guess it's all connected - LOL! I will try it again this month.

[gint518]

I loved my Diva cup! I am so sorry I didn't discover it until my forties. Then I had an ablation and didn't need it anymore. But it was great for the days when my bleeding was really heavy- I just went into the restroom at work and emptied it. I was bleeding so much that I did get a little spillover, but not much. A small pad did the job, as opposed to the overnight ones I used to have to wear in addition to the super plus tampon I was wearing. I loved it!
I had tried the Instead cup, but found it much too small and did not have success with it.

[teachertoten]

use it and LOVE it. Would never go back to anything else!

[ram0029]

Thanks ladies for sharing all your knowledge. I am now feeling brave enough to try one ...
Thanks!

[Gina Giannattasio]

I've been considering getting one for years, but haven't quite made that leap, yet. But I was wondering, what about odor? You know what I mean, the sort that develops when one goes too long without changing a pad. I'm sure this isn't an issue, otherwise the Diva Cup wouldn't be so popular, right?

[thadine]

Like with using a tampon, odour isn't a problem. You only get the odour when your flow is exposed to air.

[gillmings]

Yeah, odor is not an issue AT ALL -- even less than a tampon, I think. WAY better than a pad!

[BlessedMama]

Well, I'm not going for the diva cup, but my girls and I are going to take the plunge with the cloth pads! We were going to make some, but there's several that sell them on Etsy, so I think we'll give them our business! Since there's 5 of us, she'll get quite the business!

Thanks for the thread and mentioning both the diva cup and the cloth pads! Got me thinking again! :) (And I'm tired of the "itchies" that come with disposable pads!)

[Nikki Dawn]

Just have to say with cloth there is not the oder you can get from disposable. I think when they say oder eliminator that they mean they cause it.

Let us know what you think of the cloth, Trisch!

Thanks for the links Brandy! They were out but I am gonna keep trying.

Is anyone buying a bunch or a couple to see if they like them? Please report back. I know the glad rags work but travel. Also have a friend that used cloth that the inserts walked off. She said they were awful! I can just imagine the horror of them running around in your pants! No good! I bet these women on etsy are gonna love us.

Trisch, I am gonna venture in trying to make some. Otherwise, I am gonna go to etsy too!

Thanks for all the not so goods and good reviews y'all are giving. It sure helps!

[BlessedMama]

From what I understand, Nikki, these don't have inserts. She just has different sizes/thicknesses. I wondered about the inserts, too!!!

[gretchikin]

I agree-no odor, even while emptying it--I don't notice *that* odor.
(didn't like the Instead ones either.. couldn't get it figured out..)

I kind of liken it to diapering:

There are disposables, um, that comparison is obvious..
and cloth diapers--to mama cloth (I think the brand my friend used was Luna Pads, they have a facebook page)
and then EC/elimination communication, "catching" it in the toilet -- can't really sit on the toilet all day every day for 5ish days, so the DivaCup is the next best thing ;) So much more environmentally friendly and cheaper alternative to all of the above.

In my opinion of course :) I kinda use a mixture with my baby and with me--sometimes need backup on my heavy days..

[ckmoskal]

Okay...just ordered a Diva cup off Amazon. I'll give it a try.

[MoTappin]

Just wanted to chime in and say that I encountered problems with the Diva Cup I ordered from Amazon. It took them two weeks to even tell me it was on back order, and they only did that after I emailed them to ask where it was. It's not from Amazon but a seller there called Direct Super Center. I cancelled that order and found one on Ebay for about $26 with free shipping, so about the same as it would have been from that seller with the shipping. I hope it comes soon because AF will probably show up by Saturday.

[ckmoskal]

I'm running into the same problem with Direct Super Center on Amazon.

[gillmings]

I thought that was a crazy low price from Amazon, but happy you found a good deal. Sorry it's not working out, but glad the problem is with the seller, not the product! LOL

[MoTappin]

Is it weird how I'm SOOOO excited for it to come and so hopeful it will be here in time? :D

[BlessedMama]

LOL! My girls were that way about the homemade pads! We got our order yesterday--very fast shipping! We told her what kind of fabrics and she did really well in filling our order!

I had already started but decided to try mine while I was at home today. Switched to the disposable for taking dd to her piano lessons, since I hadn't "proven" them at home to where I felt confident.

Can I just say after 1 day I love them?! I'll see how they do as far as whether I need more of the larger ones or not. But these have stayed in place and kept things from going all over which the dumb disposables with their "moisture lock" garbage do not!

And comfy! My skin was rebelling when I went back to the disposable!!!

So if you're not ready for a diva cup, I recommend this seller from Etsy! We figured by the time we bought the fabric and figured out how we wanted them to be, AND we don't have the fancy snap setter...it's worth it to support a home business! ;)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Crea8tiveMama

[Nikki Dawn]

Trisch, thanks for the links of the ones you are trying. I made 2 homemade ones but haven't tried them yet. Okay, 3 but one was a quick wanted to see what I thought kind of thing. That one was super soft and stayed in place. I do not have a snap thing but it stayed in place. Not sure how I will like the other ones because I made them differently. SOme on the net used buttons instead of snaps. I also tried some cloth diapers I never used for filling. Let you know if it works because you want to venture making some. I am not very bright when it comes to sewing so I am sure you would run circles around my attempts.

Let us know if you like it, Meredith! I understand the excitement but the Diva so scares me still! I love the concept but guess I need to work on it.

[ckmoskal]

In case anyone was wondering about ordering off Amazon...I received an email today from Direct Super Center that my Diva Cup has shipped. We'll see if it gets here in the next few days. (fingers crossed)

[MoTappin]

Dang! 2 days ago they were on backorder. :P I should have mine hopefully tomorrow though. And with shipping I paid the same amount.

[MoTappin]

I got mine! :D Took a few tries but got it in. Can kinda feel the stem thingy, but maybe I'll need to trim it. I'll give it a little while and if I find leaks I'll try getting it in further. Really didn't have much trouble, only I found I needed to trim my fingernails...ouch! LOL What do you guys clean it with? I bought some castille soap since it was cheaper than the Diva Wash, but of course once you open the directions it says not to use castille.

[BlessedMama]

You'll have to keep us posted, Meredith!

For anyone interested, the homemade pads we bought washed up really nicely. I had a large sour cream container (you have to understand we buy the BIG BIG ones--holds maybe 2 qts.!) that I put cold water and a bit of vinegar. I only had 1 1/2 days' worth, but no smell and then they washed up nicely. I rinsed most of them before putting them in, but even the one I didn't rinse cleaned up. I am hanging them dry just because our dryer is needed for the massive amounts of towels we always seem to have on Saturday! :)

I'm not as impressed with the "panty liner"--no waterproof fabric on it. I realize it's for "very light" days, but think I'd prefer lining in it. One dd had a little trouble today with the "wings" wicking stuff down the sides, and they're not lined with the waterproof stuff. Overall, though, I'm pretty happy with them. I know I'll need the overnight size for my heavy days, though!

Thought you'd like to know they washed up great! I did wash them on cold/cold at least for this first time. With the darker colors I didn't want the colors to bleed all over other laundry (no pun intended!).

[ayj67]

Trisch, I am considering it. Regarding the washing, there is the laundry enzyme that I used to eat up organic matters, I bought online from Amway. I had to use it for some spill over on panties and my son's accidents, sure can use that on the resusable pad too.

[MoTappin]

Okay guys, It's been an hour and no leaks. The only slightly annoying thing is being able to feel the stem, but of course I'm not used to having anything (even a tampon) sitting in there like that. I may trim it a little, but first I want to make sure I'm comfortable getting it out. I tested it out and bearing down really does make it drop, so it probably won't be a problem. Still though, if it just takes a bit of getting used to I'd rather not trim it if it's not really necessary.

It's only been an hour but I'm quite happy so far! I'm pretty squeamish about this kind of stuff (I have three kids and still don't have ANY desire to wear tampons...yuck), and I anticipated it being tougher for me to get it placed right. Barring any problems tonight I think I petty much have it down already! Very pleased!

[gillmings]

Meredith, I'd try turning and pushing it in further until the stem is not sticking out. That made a big difference for me. You might be able to pull it in further with a graduated Kegel, also. Bearing down will push it right back out far enough to easily remove. After the first couple tries, I couldn't feel it at all.

I've been washing mine with some leftover super-mild shampoo that has no sulfates or fragrance in it. I found a new Curly Girl compatible shampoo I like and decided to use up the old stuff for the DC. I might even try using the new stuff, when the old runs out. It's scented, but only a little bit with natural essential oils, so I doubt it would bother anything. Otherwise, I'll get some more Amway LOC. That stuff is so gentle and scent-free, it should be perfect.

[MoTappin]

Thanks Moyne, I will try that. It's not sticking out at all, but it kinda feels like it's fairly close. I may indeed trim it. I'm super short so I may also be shorter...you know...in there. :)

[MoTappin]

Moyne, I need to echo (already) what you said when you posted this thread. WHY didn't I do this SOONER?? I heard about the cup on this forum a few years back and wondered about it then but thought I'd be too squeamish to deal with it. What the heck was wrong with me?? My only regret is that I didn't do this a long time ago! It was easier than I thought to learn and it hasn't leaked a drop. I'm sold. Totally worth the money!

I'll be spending 3 hours at church tomorrow not worrying about changing a stupid pad. And that's awesome, because I spend most of that time being in charge of the kids' group and putting on an up & down lesson / dog and pony show. :D This is the next best thing to no period at all! Thanks for bringing this back up, because I probably wouldn't have gotten one if you hadn't! Yay!

If anyone is on the fence, don't be! Do it!

[MoTappin]

Okay, I had it in overnight and not a single drip or leak! Had a tiny leak at church but it just needed an adjustment and then there was no problem. So happy!!

[gillmings]

Oh, Meredith, I'm so glad you're loving it, too!

(How tall are you? I'm 5'1", but I realize we're all still proportioned differently.)

[MoTappin]

I'm 5 feet even. :)

[gretchikin]

5'? *sigh* bet it's easier to find pants...

[MoTappin]

Yeah, but I always have to roll them up or hem them...even the petite ones!

[MoTappin]

Okay, so I trimmed the stem a little, then a little more. I've got it trimmed up to the first little ring on the stem and it's much better. I know a lot of women cut it off completely. I've even heard of those who wear it inside out. I don't think I'd go that far, but since I really don't use the stem for removal, there's a chance I may end up trimming it even more. But for now it's good. I still feel it just a little, but not uncomfy and certainly tons better than a stupid pad or a tampon that dries you out! I think after I'm more used to having it in there I won't feel it at all.

Still no leaks!! I'm hoping I won't have to empty it until bedtime. It's surprising how much you think you bleed, and then when you take this thing out, it's like "whoa...only that much??" My normal flow has always been heavier than average, but now I realize just how little that still is.

[gillmings]

I know, it really looks like a lot more in a tampon or pad, doesn't it?!

[MoTappin]

OK, sorry to keep coming back here but I have another report. :D Aren't you guys excited? LOL

That stem just kept bugging me (not pain, just a rubbing annoyance) and I eventually cut it off. It was better, but then I realized the little ridges (can't really call them that when they're soft silicone) were also driving me nuts. I'm pretty short in there (just like everywhere else), and I had pushed the cup up as far as I could get it, but those ridges were still low. Not low enough to poke out or anything, but low enough to bug me. So having read about others with a shortness in there having turned the thing inside out, I decided to try it. Now it's PERFECT!!

Even with the ridges it was still more comfy than a pad, but I could feel it enough to annoy me and probably make me walk funny. LOL Inside out, it's a little shorter and the ridges are obviously on the inside of the cup. It's still easy enough to install and uninstall, just a little more slippery on the folding. But the comfort level went way up. I wore it that way overnight and it still doesn't leak either. I realize this will probably affect capacity some, but that's okay. I've been emptying it probably 3x a day anyway, and it's never been even close to full. I'd rather empty an extra time or two and be comfortable.

I know this is contrary to the instructions, but it works for me. If anyone has had similar problems, you might give it a try. I remember with my first pregnancy and ultrasound, where they measured my cervix and said it was quite short, so I'm sure that's the issue for me.

[Cindy_Z]

I'm a DIVA girl, *and* I make cloth pads. I never really use the cloth ones except for when I'm postpartum, and they made recovery sooo much better. I just hope I never, ever have to use the cloth pads again, and I need to make some adjustments on my DIVA, but after not using it for a couple months, I really need to make it work for me again. I think I just gained too much weight, so it wasn't sitting properly. Hopefully once my replacement DVD's come in, that won't be an issue anymore ;)

[Nikki Dawn]

Meredith, thanks for the reports! I am still pondering the inside out thing. You would think inside out would warp the original shape. Cool it worked for you.

Cindy, did you just have a baby? That alone would rearrange everything.

[MoTappin]

We'll see about the shape. I do have another one if I need it.

[ckmoskal]

Okay, it's TMI time. My Diva Cup came last week. My TOM should start Wed. or Thurs. so I thought I'd practice inserting it ahead of time. So, I got it in okay. It feels comfortable, but when I went to turn it, that part is a little more difficult. It's a little slippery and hard to get a grip on. It does turn, but it's not like it just spins around. Do you think I have it in right?

[gillmings]

Well, it should turn easily. If it doesn't, it may not be completely open. You can run your finger around the perimeter of the middle of it, to make sure it's fully open and there are no indentations. If there are, you've got suction going on and need to try again OR follow the directions for getting it to open fully. I find it works better to let it open before it's all the way in, turning as I go. The sooner it "inflates", the easier it is to get it to. When it's all the way in place, it's closer quarters and less access to the air needed to fill the cup as it opens, if that makes sense. If you're struggling to turn it, it's probably not open.

[MoTappin]

I had a hard time turning it the first time or two. Maybe it wasn't open. But as Moyne said, it's easier to let it open before it's all the way in. Once it's open, you can either turn as you push further in or push all the way, then bear down just a bit so you can reach it better, turn it, then push it back up. When you remove it you'll know whether you have good suction. :) Best thing EVER!

[MoTappin]

Alright, on cycle 2 with the Diva. It's only the 1st day but I'm finding that I DON'T actually need to turn it inside out to be comfortable. Maybe I just needed to get used to it. Totally comfortable the right way now (just without the stem). YAY!! I'm also going to get a Moon Cup to try so I have an extra cup on hand. I've read the Moon is a bit shorter so I thought I'd give it a try. Totally in love with the Diva though!

[T'appy Tapper]

Alright right ladies, I did it. I bought a DivaCup, and............I LOVE IT!!!:) I was pretty apprehensive at first. Being a virgin, I was afraid it would be too large. But, no worries! It went in very smoothly, and I learned that it is actually MORE comfortable and LESS painfull than tampons! Though I'm 18, I've only had my period reguarly for a year. Every time toward the end I would feel as though I was getting a yeast infection. I figuared out it was the fragrance and especially the bleach. It was killing the good flora! I tried organic tampons, but they only come in cardboard applicators and are ridiculously expensive considering I usually go through a a couple boxes every month. I couldn't bring myself to wear pads. Sooo uncomfortable, hot, sticky, and I would frequently break out in a rash. I even tried organic washable cotten pads. Much better, but still pretty gross. This is my first day with the DivaCup and as I said before, I LOVE IT. I have a very heavy flow and would always have to change every 45 min to an hour. And at night I would have to wear my " TOM" nightgown, put towels on my sheets, wear a huge pad along with a tampon, and would hardly get any sleep from being so uncomfortable. Last night I wore the cup and I slept all the way through the night and didn't have a single leak! Today I only changed twice. For those who are still apprehensive, please reconsider. It's a great product:)

[gillmings]

So glad you are having such a positive experience!

I was traveling on the road for my last cycle and it was absolutely a Godsend! It was so nice to not have to worry about frequent restroom stops. One time, I did need to empty in a public restroom, so I just dumped it, wiped off the outside with tissue, and put it back in, saving the "washing" step for that night in my motel room. I understand their cautions about hygiene, but who takes that much care with their tampons? When I'm at home in my own bathroom, I don't usually wash it with soap every time, just rinse completely andmake sure the holes are clear.

I had actually tried some organic tampons right before this. Natracare actually does make the non-applicator type like OB. But they're so stinking expensive and I found myself trying not to use as many as was really indicated. I'm with you -- can't stand pads, either!

[MoTappin]

Great stories! These things are so awesome. Almost makes you feel like you're not even having the blessed TOM. I got a Moon too, right before my last cycle. I really like both the Moon and Diva. Because of the little shorter length, sometimes the Moon is a tad more comfortable (although the Diva isn't uncomfortable at all) for days when my cervix might be lower or I have a lighter flow. I love my cups! I will never go back! My only regret is that I didn't do it A LOT SOONER!!