Questions & Answers

 

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Which model/size should I use?

The DivaCup™ is available in two models:

Model 1: for women under 30 years old who have never had childbirth or c-sections.  Buy it now!

Model 2: for women who have had vaginal childbirth or c-sections; and for women who are over 30 years old and never had childbirth.  Buy it now!

The Model 1 cup is 1 5/8" (~4 cm) in diameter and the Model 2 cup is 1 3/4" (~4.5 cm) in diameter. Both cups are around 2 1/4" in length in the body of the cup, with another 3/8" stem (2 3/4" total length). The stem may be trimmed to adjust to your comfort level.

There is not a big difference between the two sizes (Model 1 is 1/8" (~0.3 cm) smaller), but it is important to use the recommended sizing to prevent leakage.

We recommend Model 2 if you are over 30 years old because as we age, our hips naturally widen and the vaginal muscles lose elasticity. Since it is the vaginal muscles which hold The DivaCup in place, it is important to use Model 2 if you are over 30, even if you have not had a vaginal childbirth or c-section.


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	Step 1: Fold Moisten the rim of The DivaCup™ with water if needed. Press the sides of the cup together and then fold it in half again.
	Step 2: Hold Hold the folded sides firmly between your thumb and forefinger. The single curved edge should be facing away from your palm.
	Step 3: Insert With the vaginal muscles relaxed, gently separate the labia with your free hand and then push the curved edge of the folded DivaCup™ into the vaginal opening.
	Step 4: Removal Wash your hands well with warm water and soap. Pull gently on the stem until you can reach the base of the cup. Pinch the base of the cup to release the seal and continue to pull down to remove. The contents should not spill during removal. Simply empty the contents in the toilet, wash it well with hot soapy water and reinsert.

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How do I know when to empty The DivaCup™?

The DivaCup™ holds one ounce (30 ml). The entire average monthly flow is around 3 to 4 ounces (90-120 ml). By monitoring the fullness of the cup, you will quickly learn how often to empty it according to your flow.

The DivaCup™ must be emptied 2-4 times a day (depending on your flow) and can be worn up to 12 hours overnight. Most women only need to empty it in the morning and again in the evening.

If you have fairly regular flows you can even insert The DivaCup™ right before your period ensuring no messy leaks. On the occasion you need to empty it in a public washroom, use a dry or damp tissue to clean the cup, and wash well with hot soapy water at the next convenient time.

It should not be used as a birth control method and does not protect you from Sexually Transmitted Diseases. It is not necessary to remove it for urination or bowel movements, however, The DivaCup™ must be removed prior to intercourse.

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Is the silicone The DivaCup™ is made of safe? Is it the same silicone used in breast implants?

Some women are concerned that silicone is dangerous because of its association with breast implants. However, there is a major difference between the silicone in breast implants, and the silicone used in The DivaCup™. The older breast implants that caused all the problems were made from a sac filled with silicone gel. In the past, problems occurred when the sacs were rupturing or improperly sealed valves were allowing the silicone gel to leak into the body.

The DivaCup™ is made of a high quality soft medical grade silicone that starts as a liquid, and then the molecules are bound together (or vulcanized) with very high heat to form a solid stable piece of silicone (similar to the feel of soft rubber). The DivaCup™ is also cured after production in an oven at a very high temperature to make sure all the molecules are bound and chain linked together. The material has gone through substantial testing to make sure none of the molecules will break away from the product. Since the end product is a solid rubber-like material, there is no possible way for anything to leak into the body (no leaching).

This form of silicone is 100% hypoallergenic, has antibacterial properties, is latex-free and odorless. It has been used safely in medical applications for over 50 years in products such as medical tubing, baby bottle nipples, breast pumps, contact lenses and even permanent medical internal body parts such as heart valves and joint replacements. It is also approved by the FDA (United States) and Health Canada.

More about silicone:

The three most common elements found on earth: hydrogen, carbon and silicon are combined to create silicone. Silicon is the second most abundant element in the earth's crust and found in sand, quartz and rocks.

Silicone products have been shown to be biocompatible (i.e. accepted by the human body without adverse reaction), durable, flexible, and easy to sterilize. Silicone materials have been extensively tested in laboratory studies, as well as clinical studies that study human health.

Silicone comes in oil, liquid, gel and solid forms. Solid silicone differs from the silicone gel used in breast implants. The DivaCup™ is made from medical grade silicone in the solid form where the molecules are chain-linked and bound together. Solid medical grade silicone does not leach into the body and has been used for over 50 years in medical procedures such as joint prostheses and heart valve replacements.

Because silicone is manufactured in various forms, it appears in a wide variety of products that most of us use every day. Hairsprays, medicines, cosmetics, suntan lotions and moisturizing creams are just some of the consumer products that contain one form of silicone called dimethicone.

The DivaCup™ (including the silicone) was reviewed and approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration in the USA) and Health Canada in 2002. It is also available for sale in many other countries including any of the countries in the European Union (EU).

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Is The DivaCup™ sanitary?

We have all assumed that since tampons and pads are white, they must be clean and sterile. Unfortunately they are not. They are bleached white with chlorine, which poses health risks as well as chlorine bleach being a carcinogenic toxin (also known as dioxin).

The vagina is self-cleansing and continually producing fluid (mucous) that carries away dead cells and bacteria. Tampons (rayon or cotton) are absorbing this protective mucous and can disrupt the normal acidic vaginal environment, making your subject to bacterial infections and Toxic Shock Syndrome.

The DivaCup™ is made from medical grade silicone, which is 100% hypoallergenic, latex-free and odorless. As well, it is non-absorbent and does not disrupt our natural vaginal environment. The silicone in The DivaCup™ is also antibacterial, and does not support bacterial growth.

Remember to wash your hands before inserting and removing your DivaCup™. Wash your DivaCup™ well in hot soapy water at least twice a day and can also be boiled when necessary.

"I have used The DivaCup for 1 1/2 cycles now and am thoroughly hooked on it. I am a nurse and wear white to work. I am able to wear white on my heaviest days without so much as a pantyliner as a backup. That is incredible! The DivaCup is comfortable and no more difficult to insert than a tampon or diaphragm. I have tried the Instead softcups and they were comfortable to wear, but I always made a terrible mess trying to take them out. That has not happened once with The DivaCup. Thank you DivaCup! I have recommended this to my best friend and sister and would recommend it to any woman."
-Amy in Midwestern USA

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What do I do in a public washroom?

Most women find that they do not have to remove The DivaCup™ very frequently, and that taking it out in a public washroom does not occur very often. However, for women with heavier flows or on the occasion you need to empty it in a public washroom, simply remove the cup, empty the contents and use a dry or damp tissue to clean the cup and reinsert. Make sure your hands are clean before going into the stall. Wash your DivaCup™ well with hot soapy water at the next convenient time.

"Subject: Very impressed!

This is my fifth cycle of using The DivaCup and I wanted to tell you how much I love it! I thought about it for almost a year before I decided to get it and now I'm sorry I waited so long. I was just worried it was going to be gross and inconvenient, especially at work. I was really pleased that I didn't even need to take it out at work very often. I can wear it all day and I just empty it when I get home.

A couple of times I did have to take it out at work and it was a breeze. I just wiped it out in the stall and cleaned it when I got home. I used to have to bring my whole purse filled with tampons and pads every couple hours. Now I can go all day and feel totally comfortable and clean. I have a really heavy flow so it's pretty amazing to me that I can get through the whole day without emptying the cup. The best part is that I don't have to send my husband to the store anymore at midnight when I run out! Thanks so much for this truly revolutionary product!!"
-Kara, New York, NY

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What regulations or standards does The DivaCup™ have to meet?

The DivaCup™ is approved by Health Canada and the FDA in the United States. It is also available for sale in many other countries around the world including any country in the European Union.

Diva International Inc. is also ISO 13485 certified to meet the new medical device requirements of Health Canada as of January 1st, 2003. This certification ensures that The DivaCup™ is manufactured, packaged, and sold following specific procedures to ensure the highest quality, safety and effectiveness of the product.

ISO 13485 is a Quality Standard governed by the International Organization of Standardization based out of Geneva, Switzerland, and is recognized and practiced in over 160 countries around the world. ISO 13485 is the quality standard for medical devices which is designed to ensure that companies follow strict guidelines to ensure the highest quality of their products, as well as meeting applicable government requirements.

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I am allergic to latex rubber, will I be allergic to The DivaCup™?

Synthetic latex rubber and natural latex or gum rubber contain a protein called "nitrosomine". This is the chemical that produces the allergic reactions that many people have to latex. The DivaCup™ is made from durable medical grade silicone, which is 100% hypoallergenic and suitable for women with latex allergies (nitrosomine and latex free).

"I heard about menstrual cups years ago and had a few friends that swore by them. I was sad that I couldn't use it because of my latex allergy. When I found out there was a new cup and it was made of silicone I was so excited and ordered it right away. Thank you so much for making The DivaCup and making it latex-free! I can finally rave about it just like my friends have been doing all these years. My sister is going to order one too. Every woman should use this and I'm telling every woman I know. Keep up the good work!"
-Sherry, Saint Louis, MO

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Can The DivaCup™ be used for heavy flows?

The DivaCup™ works very well for women with light or heavy flows. The DivaCup™ holds one full once and the average women only flows about three to four ounces in her entire cycle. For most women the cup is not even half full after 12 hours.

Women with heavy flows will simply need to empty the cup more often. The convenient measurement lines in ounces and millilitres will allow women to actually keep track of how much flow there is, and will finally be able to tell their doctor what is really happening in their cycle.

Many women who suffer from heavy painful periods from conditions such as endometriosis have reported wonderful results with The DivaCup™ as well as less cramping. Since The DivaCup™ sits low in the vaginal canal it does not block the flow from coming out like a tampon does, but allows the flow to come out naturally and simply catches and stores it in the cup.

"I am currently using my DivaCup™ for my second cycle, and I am head-over-heels! I have been telling all of my friends about it, and even ordered extra brochures so that I could pass them out. So far I've convinced at least three people, and they've ordered theirs. I can't say enough about how happy I am with The DivaCup™! I agree with all of the testimonials posted here, and I have to add my own #1 reason to use The DivaCup™: yesterday, on my heaviest flow day, I completely FORGOT that I had my period! I had my DivaCup™ in, and when I got home from a long day I finally remembered - that is how comfortable and convenient your product is.

Thank you! The environment thanks you! I will continue to spread the word."
-Patricia, Victoria, BC

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Will The DivaCup™ work for an active lifestyle?

Yes! It's fantastic for swimmers, outdoor enthusiasts, aerobic classes, cycling, travelers, campers, and so on. You will feel fresh, secure, and liberated. No feminine hygiene products to pack (or run out of). No worries about staying close to a bathroom. No restrictions on physical activity. And since you can wear The DivaCup™ longer than tampons or pads you have the convenience of not having to think about your period all day long!

"Just wanted to tell you that I’ve had my DivaCup for two cycles now and it is great. I play rugby which means long tournament days with nothing but little outhouses, not very hospitable to women on the periods. Tampons never lasted long enough and were a pain to carry around. With my DivaCup I can just empty it in the morning and at night with no leakage.

Tampons seem so ridiculous now. They’re bad for the environment, they leak, they suck up natural moisture. The feminine hygiene industry profits from women using their products because they have no other options. They tell us that we smell bad and that somehow pink plastic applicators will make our lives better.

The DivaCup was under thirty dollars and will last for years. The company seems very women positive. And honestly, I support anything that helps women understand their bodies instead of viewing them as unsanitary and gross."
-Sara, Charlottesville, VA


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What about Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is considered a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by toxin-producing strains of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. TSS has been linked to high absorbency and prolonged use of tampons. There are now regulations in labeling for tampon absorbency to decrease the risk of TSS.

Symptoms of TSS often mimic the flu and can include sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, or a rash that looks like a sunburn during your period or a few days after.

Remember that the vagina is continually self-cleansing washing away dead cells and bacteria. The DivaCup™ is non-absorbent and is only a receptacle and does not disturb the natural moisture level in the vagina. The DivaCup™ has never been associated with TSS.

FACTS ABOUT TSS AND TAMPONS

• About 70% of the 73 million women are of menstruating age in the U.S. use tampons
• Lifetime tampon usage is about 11,400 (5 days X 5 tampons X 38 years)
• In the U.S., women between 11 and 60 years of age reported 216 cases of menstrual TSS reported in 1993; 244 cases in 1994
• Risk of TSS is higher for women under 30 years old; 60% of patients are between 15 and 24 years of age
• Fatality rate of TSS is 3% to 5%, but it is estimated that only 10% of cases of TSS are reported, as many women suffer only flu-like symptoms
• Absorbency enhancers in tampons can cause peeling of the mucous membrane, vaginal dryness, ulcers, and lesions
  perfumes and fragrances in some tampons are reported to cause internal irritation, allergic reactions, and disruptions of a woman's microbial balance
• "Tampon users were demonstrated to be 18 times more likely to develop menstrual TSS as non-users", Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics & Gynecology, 1993, Gilles R.G. Monif
• "Of [Toxic Shock] cases occurring in menstruating women, up to 99% were using vaginal tampons", Obstetrics and Gynecologic Infectious Disease, 1994, James McGregor and James Todd, (Chapter 21 - Toxic Shock Syndrome)
• "Vaginal inflammation can result from rayon fibers from tampons becoming embedded in vaginal walls", Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1980
• Tampons made chiefly of rayon have some levels of dioxin
• "Rayon tampons amplify the growth of the Toxic Shock Syndrome bacteria TSST-1"
  American Society for Microbiology Journal, May 1994, Dr. Philip Tierno of NYU Medical Center
• Dioxin levels once thought acceptable are now reported to adversely affect the reproductive and immune systems, "A Health Assessment Document for Dioxin", published by the Environmental Protection Agency, 1996

"Cotton tampons offer no protective advantage over cotton/rayon tampons with regard to protection from TSS" Journal of Infectious Diseases, October 1995 (study by Dept. of Microbiology, University of Minnesota


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Can you wear The DivaCup™ during intercourse?

No, The DivaCup™ is bell-shaped and worn low near the vaginal opening. It should be removed before intercourse. As well, The DivaCup™ is not a birth control device and should not be used for this purpose.

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What is the difference between The DivaCup™ and other menstrual cups?

The DivaCup™ is made from soft medical grade silicone, which is 100% hypo-allergenic. Other products are from natural latex rubber (gum rubber), which contains a protein called nitrosomine. Women who have allergies or sensitivities to any form of latex should not use menstrual cups which are made from latex rubber.

The DivaCup™ also features extra grip ridges for easier removal. The stem of The DivaCup™ is shorter than other cups to allow for added comfort and a more secure fit with less leakage. It is also very economically priced and when needed can be boiled to sterilize the cup.

The DivaCup™ is FDA accepted and is the only reusable menstrual cup that holds a valid Health Canada license.

One other confusion between The DivaCup™ and other reusable menstrual cups is how long the products last. Other manufacturers of menstrual cups state that their products last for 10 years. We cannot make any claims that The DivaCup will last for a specified amount of years, as making such a claim is a violation of Medical Device License holders by The FDA and Health Canada. The DivaCup is guaranteed for a one whole year, and the silicone is more durable than latex and should last many years. Although other products make claims of lasting 10 years, they only hold a three month guarantee versus the one year guarantee with The DivaCup™.

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How long does The DivaCup™ last?

We are unable to make any claims that The DivaCup™ will last for a specified amount of years as making such a claim is a violation of Medical Device License holders by The FDA and Health Canada. However, the silicone used in The DivaCup™, which is 100% hypoallergenic, latex-free and odorless is the same material and grade used for permanent medical body parts such as heart valves, joint replacements, etc.

The material is very durable, and with proper care, The DivaCup™ should last for many years. The DivaCup™ can be boiled to sterilize the cup, and rubbing alcohol can be used to help remove the natural discoloration. The material and the cup itself should last indefinitely, but since it is a hygienic product, some women prefer to replace the cup every year or two. The DivaCup™ is a great investment and pays for itself in 3 or 4 months for most women.

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Can virgins use The DivaCup™?

Physically, The DivaCup™ is suitable for women of all ages as the vagina is just made up of very flexible tissue and muscles. Women's bodies are designed this way to be able to stretch to deliver a baby. After being stretched after intercourse or childbirth the tissue returns back to its normal size. It is the muscles that usually need to be strengthened after childbirth.

There are alot of misconceptions about the hymen. New medical research has shown that most hymens are a lot more resilient and elastic than most people think, and particularly so during adolescence. Medical research on the effects of tampon use on the hymen in women who have not yet engaged in sexual activity involving penetration has shown that regular use of typical tampons has a statistically insignificant risk (smaller than 2%) of causing damage or trauma to the hymen that was later visible to examining physicians.

It is simply not true that the hymen is broken as soon as someone begins to use internal menstrual products, and that although it is possible that some superficial damage could occur, the reality is that it varies quite a bit from woman to woman and many women using internal menstrual products do not, as far as researchers can tell, sustain any hymen damage at all from doing so.

Due to the high elasticity and larger than expected opening of the hymen, The DivaCup™ has no more or less probability of causing hymen damage than does a typical tampon. Once adolescence is reached the hymen can also disappear on its own.

Many of our customers are as young as 11 or 12 years old. It is ideal for young girls who are very active (such as swimmers or gymnasts) and are looking for a more reliable method other than tampons or pads.

In conclusion, yes, a virgin can use The DivaCup™ and no, the hymen is not likely to be damaged by using it. \

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Does The DivaCup™ leak?

According to consumer research, 60% of women experience leakage every month when using tampons and pads! With The DivaCup™ the majority of women feel secure without the hassle of worrying about leakage.

Many women don't believe that it is possible for a feminine hygiene product to actually do it's job and not leak. Believe it ladies!!! This product actually works. Our testimonial pages are just a small sample of the many thousands of satisfied users worldwide who all agree that The DivaCup™ is the best feminine hygiene product they have ever tried!

If any leaking occurs, it is usually when wearing the cup too high, the cup was not rotated or it is not worn on the right angle, the cup size is too small (may need Model 2), or that the muscle tone needs to be strengthened with kegel exercises (usually necessary after multiple vaginal childbirths).

Success with The DivaCup™ increases when the instructions are precisely followed. Sometimes it takes women one or two cycles to get the hang of it, which is why The DivaCup™ is guaranteed for a year. Most women find that once they find the right position, it is not even necessary for a backup pad or liner.

"Thank you so much for The DivaCup! I received it a couple days before my cycle. I could not believe how comfortable it was wearing it , and best of all no messy leaks or stained panties. I told my co-worker about The DivaCup gave her a pamphlet and was impressed by it. She's is definitely buying a DivaCup. I will not ever go back to pads or tampons. Thanks again."
-Hannah, The Woodlands, TX

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Can The DivaCup™ be worn with an IUD?

The DivaCup™ is worn low at the base of the vagina and is away from the cervix, it should not interfere with your IUD.

As recommended, always check your IUD cord after inserting and removing your DivaCup™ to make sure that it has not been dislodged. Many of our customers are IUD users as well and have not reported any problems.

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Can The DivaCup™ get stuck? If it happens, what to do.

It is highly unlikely that The DivaCup™ will get stuck since the vagina is only around 4 or 5 inches long. If your DivaCup™ rides up and becomes harder to reach, simply push down (or bear down) on your stomach muscles (similar to having a bowel movement) and reach inside the vagina and pull on the stem until you can reach the base of the cup and squeeze it. Make sure that you are relaxed while doing this so that your vaginal muscles do not become tense. Once you have squeezed the base to release the air, pull the cup out on a sideways angle to allow more air to enter the vagina and it will come out no problem. If you still cannot reach The DivaCup squat on the floor and this will automatically lower the cup because this position pushes everything down lower.

The important thing to remember is not to panic, as this will make the vaginal muscles very tense and it will be harder to remove. If it feels too slippery to get a hold of the stem, wait a bit, relax, and try again by bearing down on the muscles, which will push it down to be able to pinch the base and remove. By following the instructions: making the cup rotate 360 degrees to make sure it has opened up and made the seal, and by wearing it low in the canal (not pushing it up high like a tampon), the cup should be very easy to remove.

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If it's so good why haven't I heard of it?

The original menstrual cup was available in the early 1930's, but was quickly overshadowed by the popularity of disposable products. Currently, popularity of The DivaCup™ is rising dramatically, because women are so much more ecologically conscious, (disposables cause much damage to the environment), and medical studies have associated Toxic Shock Syndrome with tampon usage. We at Diva International Inc. are dedicated to educating women about The DivaCup™ through advertising, brochures and the Internet. The knowledge of The DivaCup™ is also being propelled through word of mouth from satisfied DivaCup™ customers!

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Is The DivaCup™ guaranteed?

Yes, The DivaCup™ is guaranteed. Please contact our trained customer service advisors if you are having any problems by phone 1-866-444-DIVA, or e-mail us at info@divacup.com. Usually if there is a problem we can solve it over the phone, e-mail, or by searching for your problem on our website.

The DivaCup™ has a one year money back satisfaction guarantee from date of purchase (minus the cost of the original shipping, if applicable).

Return to point of purchase with receipt.

This guarantee does not cover damages caused by accidents, failure to follow directions, natural product discoloration, cutting off the entire stem, loss or misuse of product.

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What is Endometriosis and is there a connection to menstrual cups?

Endometriosis is a painful, chronic disease that affects 5 1/2 million women and girls in the USA and Canada, and millions more worldwide. It is a condition in which endometrium, the tissue which normally lines the uterus, grows in locations outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue develops into growths or lesions which respond to the menstrual cycle in the same way as the tissue of the uterine lining: each month the tissue builds up, breaks down, and sheds.

During a normal menstrual cycle, the blood flows from the uterus, through the cervix and out of the body through the vaginal opening, whereas the blood and tissue shed from endometrial growths has no way of leaving the body. This results in internal bleeding, breakdown of the blood and tissue from the lesions, and inflammation -- and can cause pain, infertility, scar tissue formation, adhesions, and bowel problems.

What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?

The symptoms of endometriosis include:

-Painful periods
-Painful intercourse
-Pelvic pain
-Ovulation pain
-Pain in the lower back and thighs
-Bowel symptoms
-Bladder symptoms
-Reduced fertility.

Usually, endometriosis causes pain around the time of the menstrual cycle, but some women experience constant pain.

What causes Endometriosis?

The exact cause of Endometriosis is unknown, but researchers have proposed a number of theories, including the theory of retrograde menstruation, immune system malfunction, exposure to toxins (such as dioxin), and genetic factors.

Research by the Endometriosis Association revealed a startling link between dioxin (TCCD) exposure and the development of endometriosis. Dioxin is a toxic chemical byproduct of pesticide manufacturing, bleached pulp and paper products, and medical and municipal waste incineration. The EA discovered a colony of rhesus monkeys that had developed endometriosis after exposure to dioxin. 79% of the monkeys exposed to dioxin developed endometriosis, and, in addition, the more dioxin exposure, the more severe the endometriosis.

What is the theory of retrograde menstruation?

The theory of retrograde menstruation is also known as 'backward menstruation'. Some people think that retrograde menstruation is when the flow goes back into the uterus when there is a blockage in the vagina from using internally worn menstrual products. This is not the case. In almost all women, some of the menstrual fluid flows backwards into the fallopian tubes from the uterus instead of leaving the body through the cervix and vaginal canal.

Since the fallopian tubes are open-ended (they are not joined to the ovaries, but open nearby), menstrual fluid can drip into the pelvic cavity. It is suspected that in women who experience endometriosis, the endometrial tissue contained in the menstrual fluid sticks to whatever structures it lands on (such as the ovaries) and starts to grow.

Retrograde menstruation occurs in almost all women, but only 3-10% of menstruating women develop endometriosis. One theory suggests that the immune systems of some women allow endometriosis to develop by failing to control or stop the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Can menstrual cups cause retrograde menstruation?

The DivaCup™ is worn low in the vaginal canal collecting the flow far away from the cervix. It is highly unlikely that The DivaCup™ would cause retrograde menstruation. Remember that retrograde menstruation does not even refer to the flow going upwards from the vagina into the cervix, but actually from the uterus into the fallopian tubes. In this case, the actual form of feminine protection used would have no impact on retrograde menstruation. As we mentioned earlier, this happens in the majority of women.

We have had many customers over the years that suffer from severe endometriosis (including some doctors) who have reported amazing success with The DivaCup™ and even some relief. Since endometriosis causes heavy bleeding, our customers report that The DivaCup™ is able to support their very heavy flows with minimal to no leakage.

We hope that after learning more about endometriosis you will feel comfortable in considering menstrual cups as an ideal option.

For more information, contact the Endometriosis Association:

Endometriosis Association
8585 N. 76th Place
Milwaukee, WI 53223 USA

phone 414.355.2200
fax 414.355.6065

www.endometriosisassn.org

"I wanted to write in and say thank you! I just "celebrated" my sixth cycle of using the DivaCup and I am so unbelievably happy with this product, I really can't imagine going back to anything else. I have endometriosis and am usually in bed with severe pain for several days during my period. I wish this wasn't true, but since it is every little thing that makes my periods more comfortable and convenient is a goddess-send! I love how tidy and clean the DivaCup is...no more nasty twisting, bunching pads to cope with, and I haven't had a single leak since I started using it! (If you are in too much pain to easily change your sheets, let me tell you, that's very important!) It's wonderful...

It did take me a while to get used to; I would say it took until my third cycle to truly be comfortable with the insertion/removal process. (I never used so much as a single tampon in my life, so getting used to wearing something internally was a bit of an adjustment!) But the instructions that came with the cup were very clear and reassuring, and I did make the adjustment...and now I'll never go back. Thank you so much for a wonderful product.

All the best,"
-Kerrie, Powell Butte, OR

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Are there free samples available?

Since The DivaCup™ is a reusable product we cannot offer free samples. One cup can last several years, and easily pays for itself with just a few cycles of using it.

In order to give our customers a risk-free opportunity to try the cup, we do offer the one year money-back guarantee.

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Is there odor with The DivaCup™?

No, there is no odor when using The DivaCup™. Menstrual flow only begins to develop an odor when it begins to oxidize and break down from being exposed to air. Pads are usually the worst when it comes to menstrual odor. Tampons are not as bad since they are worn internally, but can still create odor.

With The DivaCup™ there is no odor at all. It really does make the woman feel clean and secure. No more worrying about embarrassing odor or leakage!

"I want to say how much I am thrilled with your product. My two sisters and I each bought a Diva Cup 4 months ago. At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it because of it being different than what I was used to, but now after using it for 4 cycles I do have to say I will never go back to tampons or pads again. I don't feel enslaved to the constant changing of tampons anymore or the leakage problems that tampons offered. Most of the time, I forget that I'm even on my period. The best thing I feel about using The DivaCup is I've noticed how much cleaner I am and there is no more smell !! Thankfully, now I don't dread it when my period comes. The money I spent was well worth it and in the long run it pays for itself in no time. It is such a pleasure to not have to go to the store to buy feminine products anymore or try to stay stocked up so you won't be caught off guard without protection. I know that I am always "stocked up" just by having my one cup. Every woman should try the DivaCup. Thank you so much for such an awesome product!"
-Stephanie, Dallas, TX

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Is The DivaCup™ convenient for traveling?

Yes! The DivaCup™ is great for travel. It weighs so little and there are no bulky supplies to pack or run out of. From business trips to family vacations to backpacking across the world, The DivaCup™ is all you need!

When washing in remote areas use potable water. It really only needs to be washed well twice a day. If you need to remove it in a public place at another time just wipe it with tissue and replace. The most important thing to remember is to make sure your hands are clean before you insert or remove the cup.

"I just wanted to tell you how thankful I am to own "The DivaCup™". This is my fourth cycle using "The DivaCup™", and it was delivered just in time for my extensive travels throughout South America.

When other women were frantically searching for feminine hygiene products, or packing their bags half full of supplies, I only had to carry "The DivaCup™".

On overnight buses, I was confident that there would be no leakage. I am also thrilled that I am no longer contributing to our critical environmental situation.

Thank you again and again!"
-Karen, Toledo, OH

"Thanks so much for bringing this product to market! My job keeps me traveling for about 5 months out of the year. I can't tell you how frustrating it is when your period shows up in some remote locale after every shop has closed. I think I've memorized how to say "Pardon me, but do you have an extra tampon?" in four languages. I used to try to schedule transatlantic flights so that they wouldn't coincide with my period. Now, I'm free as a bird. I love The DivaCup and so do my three sisters, all of whom "converted" after hearing me raving.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!"
-Miriam, via e-mail

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Isn't The DivaCup™ messy though?

Almost every woman's initial reaction to The DivaCup™ is "Ewww! That's gross!" When women first heard about tampons they had the same reaction. It took a long time before the concept caught on. Once you take the time to learn about The DivaCup™ and actually try it for yourself you will be shocked how clean and NOT messy it is.

The cup sits low in the canal and you can even avoid reaching inside the vagina by pushing the cup out slightly by bearing down on the muscles for removal. Most women find that once they start using The DivaCup™ that every other method is messy and gross! Just imagine a product that actually lives up to it's expectations; no leaking, no odor, convenient, comfortable, clean AND helps to save the planet! It's hard to believe that all this could be a reality, but try it for yourself and you will see that it is true.

"I would just like to say that I am in love with my DivaCup! Before I got it I wasn't sure if I would be comfortable inserting and removing it due to the mess and the general idea of seeing my blood. I thought that seeing it would cause me to gag. Boy, oh boy was I wrong. There is hardly any mess and I actually found it kind of interesting to see the blood in its natural form. But again, no problems. I must also mention that I LOVE the fact that now when I use the restroom I don't have to play around with a string getting in the way and then having to adjust it again and getting messy. What a relief!

I now understand the smile on the woman's face as she holds the DivaCup on the website. This thing truly makes me happy and I honestly don't know how I got by with tampons all those years. I am even going to go to a different forum and post about it to those ladies. This has truly made my life easier and more enjoyable.

Thank you DivaCup!"
-Emily, Omaha, NE

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Can it be worn for women with a tipped cervix?

Yes, The DivaCup™ can be worn for women with a tipped cervix. Since it is worn lower in the canal it does not interfere with the position of the cervix.

"I purchased The DivaCup 2 months ago and love it! I think that this is the best product since sliced bread! It is easy to insert, easy to remove and the best part is that there are no more pads or tampons (I do have to wear a liner as a back up on my heaviest day however, but this is nothing compared to what I used to do, and I only need 1). I can even wear my white jeans while on my period.

And for all of you women out there like me with a tipped cervix yes this product does work. It is well worth the money and worth its weight in gold. Thank you sooooo much for making such a wonderful product. Hats off to you DivaCup. I give you 5 stars."
-Michelle, Caro, MI

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Isn't The DivaCup™ too expensive?

At first it may seem that The DivaCup is expensive compared to buying a box of tampons or pads. However, every DivaCup user will attest that it is worth every penny. All the amazing features about the product make it worthwhile. However, the best part is that it pays for itself in just a few months. It is a small investment and can help save you thousands and thousands of dollars in a lifetime!

"I want to say how much I am thrilled with your product. My two sisters and I each bought a Diva Cup 4 months ago. At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it because of it being different than what I was used to, but now after using it for 4 cycles I do have to say I will never go back to tampons or pads again. I don't feel enslaved to the constant changing of tampons anymore or the leakage problems that tampons offered. Most of the time, I forget that I'm even on my period. The best thing I feel about using The DivaCup is I've noticed how much cleaner I am and there is no more smell !! Thankfully, now I don't dread it when my period comes. The money I spent was well worth it and in the long run it pays for itself in no time. It is such a pleasure to not have to go to the store to buy feminine products anymore or try to stay stocked up so you won't be caught off guard without protection. I know that I am always "stocked up" just by having my one cup. Every woman should try the DivaCup. Thank you so much for such an awesome product!"
-Stephanie, Dallas, TX

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Can you feel The DivaCup™ when you're wearing it?

Because The DivaCup is made of such soft material that actually softens even more with your body heat you cannot feel the cup at all. Many women wonder because it's worn low in the canal, and when tampons slip down they can feel them. With The DivaCup, it is totally different than the sensation of tampons, and is extremely comfortable. You don't even know it's there!