Menstrual cups have gained popularity in recent years as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional sanitary products like tampons and pads. Made of flexible silicone or rubber, they are designed to collect menstrual fluid inside the vagina and can be used for up to 12 hours without needing to be replaced. Many users have praised the menstrual cup for its sustainability, long-lasting nature, and its potential to reduce environmental waste. However, as the use of menstrual cups becomes more widespread, medical experts have begun raising concerns about potential health risks associated with improper use of these products.

Recent Findings and Health Risks

In February 2025, a medical study highlighted a rare but serious complication linked to the improper placement of menstrual cups. The study, published in the British Medical Journal, documented the case of a 30-year-old woman who developed a condition known as uterohydronephrosis – a swollen kidney caused by blocked urine flow into the bladder – after using a menstrual cup incorrectly. This condition resulted from the poor positioning of the cup during menstruation, and it caused her significant discomfort, including intermittent side pain and blood in her urine.

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The woman had been using the menstrual cup for six months when she sought medical attention due to the ongoing symptoms. After conducting several tests, doctors discovered that the menstrual cup was positioned too close to the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder. As a result, the woman’s kidney had become swollen, and her urine flow was obstructed. After a month of refraining from using the cup, her symptoms improved, and follow-up tests revealed that the swelling in her kidney had subsided, indicating that the positioning of the menstrual cup had been the cause of the problem.

The medical professionals who published the study emphasized the importance of correct menstrual cup positioning. They warned that using the cup incorrectly or using a cup that is not the right size or shape for an individual could result in complications affecting the urinary tract, including kidney problems. In this particular case, the woman became hesitant to use the menstrual cup again, fearing further complications. Fortunately, her case appeared to be a rare one, and follow-up scans showed that her condition improved after discontinuing the use of the menstrual cup. This highlights the importance of correct usage and fitting for menstrual cups to avoid health risks.

The Growing Use of Menstrual Cups

Despite these warnings, menstrual cups have become increasingly popular among women worldwide, largely due to their eco-friendly nature. Traditional menstrual products like tampons and pads generate significant waste, as they are typically single-use items made from plastic or synthetic materials. In contrast, menstrual cups are reusable, which makes them a more sustainable option for women seeking to minimize their environmental impact. In addition, menstrual cups can be used for longer periods, offering convenience for users who want to go longer between changes.

For many women, the menstrual cup offers a more comfortable and cost-effective alternative to disposable products. Once purchased, a menstrual cup can last for several years, unlike tampons and pads that need to be bought on a monthly basis. Menstrual cups are also praised for their ability to hold more fluid than traditional pads and tampons, reducing the need for frequent changes throughout the day.

Are Menstrual Cups Safe?

A previous report published in The Lancet Public Health found that menstrual cups are safe for use and do not pose significant health risks when used correctly. The study, which reviewed data from multiple research sources, concluded that menstrual cups are just as effective as other sanitary products in preventing leakage. Moreover, the study dispelled concerns about menstrual cups leading to infections, toxic shock syndrome (TSS), or other negative health effects on vaginal health.

Toxic shock syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal condition caused by bacterial infection, is often associated with tampon use, but the same concern does not appear to apply to menstrual cups. TSS can develop when bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, proliferate inside the vagina if a tampon is left in too long or not inserted properly. However, research has shown that menstrual cups, when used properly and hygienically, do not increase the risk of TSS.

That being said, menstrual cups are not without risks. In the case of the woman mentioned in the British Medical Journal study, her condition resulted from a misplacement of the cup, which caused a blockage in the urinary tract. This highlights that while the cups themselves may not inherently pose risks, the way they are inserted and worn is crucial to ensuring safety.

The Right Way to Use a Menstrual Cup

Using a menstrual cup correctly is key to avoiding complications and ensuring that it remains a safe and effective option. Doctors recommend the following steps for proper use of a menstrual cup:

  1. Clean Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling or inserting the menstrual cup to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria.
  2. Folding the Cup: To insert the cup, first fold it to make it easier to insert. You can fold it in different ways, such as by pinching it into a C-shape or a punch-down fold, depending on your preference.
  3. Insertion: Gently insert the folded cup into the vagina, aiming it towards the base of your spine. The cup should sit lower than a tampon, around the vaginal canal’s base. Once inserted, twist or adjust the cup to ensure that it opens completely and forms a seal.
  4. Adjusting Position: The cup should be positioned so that it is not pressing on the urethra or cervix. If the cup is placed too high or in the wrong position, it can cause discomfort or, in rare cases, complications like the one described in the study.
  5. Removal: To remove the cup, gently squeeze the bottom of the cup to break the seal before pulling it out. Avoid pulling on the stem to remove the cup, as this can cause discomfort or force the cup into the wrong position.

It is also important to choose the right size of menstrual cup. Most menstrual cup brands offer cups in different sizes, typically based on factors such as age, vaginal tone, and flow volume. Using the wrong size can lead to issues with leakage, discomfort, or even complications like the one outlined in the study.

While menstrual cups are widely regarded as a safe and sustainable alternative to traditional menstrual products, there are some risks associated with improper use. As highlighted by the recent study, positioning the cup correctly is crucial to avoid potential complications such as blocked urine flow and kidney issues. Medical professionals stress the importance of choosing the right size and shape of menstrual cup, as well as following proper hygiene practices when inserting and removing the cup.

When used correctly, menstrual cups are an effective and eco-friendly option for menstruation. However, first-time users should be aware of the importance of correct insertion and positioning to avoid complications. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms while using a menstrual cup, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly. By following expert guidance and taking precautions, menstrual cups can continue to be a safe and sustainable choice for many women around the world.