Review - Intima Lily Cup

Review by Rebecca Lindon.

If, like me, you’ve been considering safer and more eco-friendly options for menstrual care then a cup may be something you’ve thought about. I stopped using tampons some time ago; worried about the lack of regulation on materials used in them and the absorption of any chemicals whilst wearing them. Sanitary pads didn’t suit me either and a friend suggested I try a cup.

Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina and can be left for up to 12 hours (depending on flow). I tried the Intima Lily Cup, which is made from medical-grade silicone and has no health risks, is re-useable and maintains a PH balance that’s better for intimate health.

This was my first time using a cup and the Lily Cup One is an excellent entry product. It’s the only collapsible product on the market which means you can fold it down, pop it in its small case and carry it in your handbag so you’re never caught short. That flexibility also means it can be folded as thin as a tampon and inserted comfortably, it’s also softer once inside - great for first-timers. That flexibility did however mean that establishing a seal was difficult for me the first few times I used it. It took a little practice and I’d recommend wearing a liner whilst you get the hang of establishing the correct placement. Pinching the bottom of the cup when you remove it will break the seal and make it easier to pull out. I’ve also read that moving it in a circular motion to form and break the seal is a good trick that I’ll try next time.

Once I got the hang of creating a seal, I was amazed at how well it worked. I couldn’t feel the product at all and continued working out and doing yoga without any issues or leakages throughout my period. I wore it to sleep and didn’t feel a thing and I’m now an absolute convert. It also allows you to monitor your flow more easily, so you’re in tune with how often you need to remove and wash and can more easily identify any issues if you’re bleeding particularly heavily for example.

Anyone else use this product or other cups you’d like to recommend?