Another Alternative to Disposable Sanitary Products – the DivaCup

This Summer I wrote a pretty lengthy series about Mama Cloth.  If you’re interested in reading up on it, please do so, but here’s the shortened version for you – Mama Cloth is another term for re-usable cloth menstrual pads. 

They’re easy to care for, safer for your body and the environment than disposable products, and will save you money in the long run. I tried Mama Cloth as a part of the It’s a Girl Thing Period! Cloth Challenge and am so glad that I did.

But, I did get lots of feedback from readers who talked about their love for a menstrual cup!  So, I decided to see what that was all about – and share it with those of you that may be in the dark about the DivaCup.

Did you know that the first menstrual cup was patented in the 1930s? I didn’t. 

I had never even heard of a re-usable cup until I began reading Mommy blogs. It’s important to realize that this is not a new concept, the idea of being able to re-use personal items in order to save money, save the environment, and have a healthy alternative to disposable products that can cause health problems.

You probably have a ton of questions about the DivaCup – especially if this is your first time reading about such a product.  Fortunately, they cover just about every FAQ about the DivaCup on their website.

I do want to share my experience, though – as compared to my experiences with Mama Cloth.

I was totally freaked out by this product – and honestly, still am a bit. 

I ordered a size 2, which is recommended for any woman who is over 30 and/or has had a baby {whether naturally or by C-section}. The first time I tried the DivaCup, I couldn’t get a comfortable fit. Sometimes I still don’t – but it gets easier the more you use it and get comfortable with the product.

Without going into too many personal details, I really am now preferring the Cup to my Mama Cloth. It’s much less messy, I can wear it for longer periods of time {up to 12 hours}, it’s much more travel/out in public friendly than Mama Cloth {or disposables even}, and because it’s made out of highest grade healthcare grade silicone – it will last for a very long time. 

{Although the DivaCup recommends that you change your cup every year, I’ve read many other stories that say it will last much longer, if kept clean and sterilized between uses.}

It doesn’t have to be an all or nothing type choice though – Mama Cloth or the DivaCup. I often use a thin cloth panty liner as a back-up with the Cup and sometimes find it easier to just reach for a cloth pad. It’s absolutely wonderful that we have these green choices when it comes to menstrual products!

Buy It:  You can purchase the DivaCup online, as well as at a variety of in-store retailers.  To see where you can purchase, visit here.  The DivaCup retails for around $39.99.