Some people dread getting their period. Especially when you get your period for the first time. It can be hard to adjust to this new process your body goes through. And while there are tampons and pads available, many people opt for menstrual cups instead.

Why are so many people choosing to use menstrual cups? A decade ago, hardly anyone had heard of a menstrual cup, but now they’re all the rage. And many teens select menstrual cups because they care about sustainability, saving money, comfort and practicality.

Take the Lena Sensitive Menstrual Cup, for example. It’s easy to use, and flexible enough to move with you while you exercise or sleep.

What to know before you buy a menstrual cup

What is a menstrual cup?

A menstrual cup is a flexible, funnel-shaped cup that sits inside of the vagina and collects menstruation blood. They are usually made from rubber or silicone, and most of them are reusable.

Advantages of menstrual cups

Better for the environment: Compared to tampons or pads, reusable menstrual cups are far more sustainable. One cup can last for at least a year.

Save money: Menstrual cups save you more money compared to tampons or pads.

Can be changed less frequently: Tampons and pads require changing every four to six hours. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours.

The learning curve

There’s definitely a learning curve when it comes to using menstrual cups. You shouldn’t expect to be able to use it seamlessly on your first go. It takes time to get the hang of how to situate your cup correctly. Removing the cup can be equally challenging. However, most women usually get the hang of it after a couple of tries. Once you do, it should be quick, painless and easy.

How to use a menstrual cup

Sanitize the cup. Before using a new cup, it’s best to sanitize it to ensure it’s completely clean. This will differ depending on the cup’s material, so check manufacturer instructions to sanitize your cup properly.

Wash your hands. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water each time you use your cup.

Fold the cup. There are a number of ways to fold a menstrual cup. Try a few different techniques to see which one works best for you. One popular method is the C-fold. For the C-fold, flatten the cup and fold it in half to create a C-shape. This makes it easier to insert the cup.

Choose a relaxed stance. Some women prefer to squat, while others like to sit on the toilet. Others like to lie down. Choose whichever position you feel most comfortable in.

Insert. Slowly push the folded cup, rim first, into the vagina. Once the entire cup is inside, gently rotate the cup until it pops open to create a seal. Feel around the base to ensure no folds remain.

Remove and empty. When it’s time to take it out, move your fingers up the stem until you can feel the base. Pinch the base to break the vacuum and slowly pull the cup out. Do not pull at the stem, as this may irritate or damage your pelvic floor. Keep the cup upright to avoid spills. Pour the contents into the toilet. Rinse out the cup and put it back in if you are still on your period.

Rinse with clean water before reinserting. At the end of your period, sterilize the cup and store it in a cool, dry place.

Menstrual cup cost

You can get a menstrual cup for as low as $7. However, the less expensive ones don’t use very high-quality materials. For a decent cup, expect to spend $20 or more.

Menstrual cup FAQ

Why is my menstrual cup leaking?

A. Leaks typically occur if the cup isn’t inserted correctly. Make sure there are no folds and that the base is rounded and smooth. Improper placement is another common reason for leaks, as this may prevent a proper seal. Try placing it a little higher or lower, then gently pull the stem to ensure a vacuum effect.

Is it safe to sleep with a menstrual cup?

A. Yes, it’s completely safe to wear a menstrual cup to bed. You can wear them for up to 12 hours, and many women find them more comfortable than tampons or pads.

Which menstrual cup for teens should I get?

Best of the best menstrual cup for teens

Lena Sensitive Menstrual Cup: available at Amazon

Our take: This is an extremely comfortable cup for first-time users.

What we like: Its soft and flexible texture makes it easy to fold into any shape for insertion. This also means you’re less likely to feel it inside you as you exercise.

What we dislike: It takes some practice to get it to pop open and stay in place.

Best bang for your buck menstrual cup for teens

OrganiCup Menstrual Cup: available at Amazon

Our take: This mini cup is ideal for teenagers due to its size and ease of application.

What we like: You can cut the stem shorter if the cup sits too low in the vagina canal.

What we dislike: Those with a very heavy flow will need to empty it more regularly.

Honorable mention menstrual cup for teens

Pixie Menstrual Cup Luxe: available at Amazon

Our take: This short and thin cup is designed for those with a low cervix.

What we like: It comes with a storage bag, instruction manual, sanitizing wipes and some lubricant for the first application.

What we dislike: It can be difficult to determine which cup size is right for you.

Catherine Bushen is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.