Why use a menstrual cup?

Thanks to the DivaRecycles program
A menstrual cup that's greener than ever

DivaCup has become North America’s first-ever reusable, fully-recyclable menstrual cup! Once again, DivaCup is playing a pioneering role in continuing to challenge the status quo and revolutionizing the menstruation experience. Already leading-edge in its composition - made of 100% medical silicone and free of chemicals and bisphenol A - DivaCup has now partnered with TerraCycle to offer consumers the DivaRecycles program, a North American recycling program for DivaCups menstrual cups and DivaWipes packaging.

First of all, why use a menstrual cup?

In collaboration with DivaCup

For anyone who has heard of menstrual cups but isn't sure what they are, don't worry - as a leader in menstrual cups for over 15 years, DivaCup knows exactly what you need to know. There are many reasons that might motivate people to switch to a menstrual cup.

It's economical

Although it may seem more expensive to buy a menstrual cup compared to a box of tampons or sanitary napkins, your menstrual cup can last over a year. Do you know what that means? More money for you in the long run.

It provides up to 12 hours of leak-free protection

Menstrual cups are the perfect option for people who are on the go all the time. From travellers to students, to full-time employees and stay-at-home moms, the pace of life is often very fast. Fortunately, menstrual cups can be worn much longer than tampons and sanitary napkins. The DivaCup can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your menstrual flow. That's up to 12 hours of leak-free protection so you can focus on what really matters in life.

It's doubly greener

DivaCup is reusable as well as recyclable, making them a doubly environmentally-friendly option for menstrual care. Using the DivaCup can replace hundreds of disposables per year per person. In fact, a woman who is menstruating uses and disposes of an average of 240 tampons and/or sanitary napkins¹ containing ingredients like plastic and rayon that don’t break down. But with proper maintenance and cleaning, your DivaCup can last for years².

The product can be completely recycled as part of the DivaRecycles program with TerraCycle. Once collected, the DivaCup is cleaned, shredded and put through a hammer mill until it is pulverized. This powder is used to make recycled products, such as floor tiles, field or playground coverings, and running tracks.

How it works

All you have to do is create an account on Terracycle.com to join the program. Participation is easy and free. Only DivaCup menstrual cups and DivaWipes packaging can be recycled. It's just a matter of putting the used, clean products into any type of shipping-appropriate box. When the box is full, consumers can log into their accounts to download a prepaid shipping label, and the package is then sent to TerraCycle via UPS. In addition, for each package sent, participants will be able to earn TerraCycle points that can be exchanged for a donation to an organization of their choice.

Chemical-free

In addition to not decomposing very well, products like plastic and rayon are not good for your body. Diva is proud to say that the DivaCup is made from 100% medical silicone and is Bisphenol A (BPA) free, and contains no chemicals, plastics or added dyes.

Where to begin?

Now that you know why someone would want to switch to a menstrual cup, the first step is to choose the right DivaCup model for you. The DivaCup is available in three different sizes for different stages of life, which are available at your participating Familiprix store:

Modele 0

You’re new to the world of periods or 18 years of age or younger.

Modele 1

You’re between the ages of 19 and 30 and have a medium menstrual flow.

Modele 2

You’re over the age of 30 and/or have a heavier menstrual flow.

Keep in mind - just because you're in a particular age group doesn't mean it's going to be right for you. If your DivaCup isn’t comfortable, contact DivaCup’s customer support for advice.

When you bring home your new menstrual cup, it is recommended that you boil it for 5-10 minutes before using it for the first time. Then, before each use, be sure to wash the cup (and your hands) well with warm water and DivaWash or another mild, unscented, oil-free soap. If you have long fingernails, be sure to clean them well and keep them fairly-well trimmed.

Just like every time you try something new, there may be an adjustment period when you use a menstrual cup for the first time. It may take up to 3 months for you to get used to it.

We know that you’ll have questions and each DivaCup includes a comprehensive user guide. Diva also has customer support ready to help you Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (EST). You can also visit them at divacup.com to learn more about their products and watch videos about insertion, removal and cleaning.

1. This statistic is based on consumer knowledge and varies with each individual. Source: Elissa Gurman, June 16, 2017. “How much do Canadian women ACTUALLY spend on tampons and pads each year?” from Chatelaine.com. chatelaine.com/living/how-much-do-periods-cost
2. The silicone in a DivaCup deserves special consideration because it is used in the vagina. Each body is different, and pH, acidity levels and vaginal bacteria can affect the lifespan of a DivaCup. Additionally, the care and cleaning of the cup will also play a role in how often a DivaCup should be replaced.

With proper care and cleaning, your DivaCup can last for several years. However, if you notice any of the following characteristics in your cup, you should immediately replace it:

• Foul odour
• Heavy staining
• A white powder residue or any flaking on the cup
• Any types of tears or cracks in the rim or the stem of the cup
• A grainy texture
• Sudden leaking where it has not been experienced before