This is an often controversial topic with a lot of misleading and inaccurate information surrounding it. Despite all the skepticism, menstrual cups CAN be used with an IUD inserted. Please note, the information below is based on our own research and although we’ve tried our best to provide you with the latest and most accurate information available to us at the time, it’s still not a substitute for consulting with a qualified medical professional.

What is an IUD and how does it work?

An Intra Uterine Device is small device that’s inserted into the uterus as a form of birth control. It’s inserted by a certified medical professional and it can take just a few minutes for the entire procedure to be complete. It’s a long term and fuss-free form of birth control, as once the procedure is complete there’s nothing more required from you. IUDs are T-shaped devices and there are two types; the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD. The copper one is hormone free and prevents pregnancy by deterring sperm away from it because of its molecular makeup. The hormonal IUD slowly releases synthetic hormones over a period of time also helping to prevent pregnancy. Depending on the type of IUD, it can last anywhere from 3-10years. IUDs also have a string attached at the bottom for easy removal.

How does using a menstrual cup impact the IUD?

The most common misconception about cups and IUDs is that menstrual cups are guaranteed to dislodge or expel your IUD. This is not true. IUDs sit in the uterus below the cervix, whereas our ultra-soft menstrual cups are positioned in the lower vaginal canal.

The root of most, if not all of these misconceptions relate to the IUD string. Typically, IUD strings are 3cm long but this varies according to your anatomy. An excellent way to decrease the risk of the string getting pulled (potentially dislodging the IUD) when removing the cup, is to get a feel for how long the string is before using a menstrual cup. If you’re not comfortable doing this, you can ask a doctor. If you feel the string is too long and that it may interfere with the removal of the cup you can ask your doctor to cut it shorter.

How do I remove the cup with an IUD inserted?

Okay, so you’ve had a feel for how long your string is either by yourself or you had it checked by a doctor. Any necessary adjustments have been made and now you’re ready to use your Sheba Feminine ultra-soft cup!

To remove the cup, always ensure your hands are clean. Then, you need to break the seal of the cup. You do this by pinching the BASE of the cup. If you pinch any higher this may increase the risk of tugging the string and dislodging the IUD. PS. Even if your string has been cut, it’s still best to pinch the base of the cup to break the seal to avoid pain or discomfort.

If you feel ANY pain or discomfort in your lower abdomen while trying to break the seal stop immediately. Take a breather, and try to break the seal from a different angle. If you find that the pain and discomfort persists, please seek medical assistance.

For those who have a lower cervix, you need to be extra careful as everything is positioned much lower.

If you recently had your IUD inserted

It’s best to wait 3 months after your IUD has been inserted before you start using a menstrual cup. This is because in the first 3 months after insertion there’s a chance your IUD may naturally be expelled from your body. This could be because your body has rejected the IUD or for other natural or medical reasons.