Do you want to know whether or not the Merula Cup is right for your body? Then keep on reading to find out everything you need to know about this unusually shaped menstrual cup.
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Merula Menstrual Cup Review
The Merula Cup is a nice option for people with both a heavy period, and a low cervix. Here are some quick facts:
- Made in Germany from medical grade silicone
- Rings, instead of a stem on the end which can be cut to the desired length
- 2 sizes (one-size, and XL)
- The XL is one of the highest capacity menstrual cups on the market today
- Some excellent user reviews online
- A different design—quite firm, and doesn’t need to be fully open in order to work and not leak.
Merula Cup Review
Merula Menstrual Cup Introduction
If you have a low cervix, but a heavy period, then the Merula Cup makes a nice option. You don’t actually have that many choices, and you’ll often end up getting either a lower capacity menstrual cup than you might want, or a longer one.
The normal Merula cup has a very high capacity of 38 ml, while the XL holds an astounding 50 ml. This makes it the biggest, highest-capacity menstrual cup.
If you leave the rings on it, the Merula is an average length menstrual cup. However, it’s designed so that you can cut off one ring at a time, until it’s your desired length.
This can turn it into one of the shortest menstrual cups. And it means that it’s the perfect menstrual cup if you heavy a heavy flow, and also a short vaginal canal.
The major downside to the Merula Cup is that it can be a bit difficult to find outside of Amazon Germany. However, it’s easy enough to buy it from there if you’d really like to try this one out.
Buy the Merula Cup
It can be difficult to find the Merula Cup in stores if you don’t live in Germany, which is why we recommend shopping online.
You can check out the Merula Cup on Amazon here. But, only if you want to have a more eco-friendly, affordable, healthier period experience!
2 Sizes of Merula Cup
Merula Cup Dimensions:
Rim diameter: 40 mm
Total Length: 72 mm
Length from second ring: 61 mm
Length from third ring: 50 mm
Length of just the cup: 39 mm
Capacity: 38 ml
Merula Cup XL Dimensions:
Merula: Shorter than Average Length
Both the Merula and Merula XL are shorter than average menstrual cups that come in at around 70 mm. Of course, if you don’t cut any rings off, they are as long as normal menstrual cups, and even slightly longer than some (72 mm).
However, these menstrual cups are designed so that you can cut the rings off easily to make them suitable if you have a medium or low cervix.
The Merula Cup can be adjusted from 72 mm down to 39 ml. The Merula XL can be adjusted from 72 mm to 50 mm.
This makes the Merula Menstrual Cup very versatile in terms of length and it could potentially work well for someone with a very high cervix/long vaginal canal, or someone with an extremely low cervix.
Can I Trim the Stem on the Merula Cup?
A common question that people have is whether or not they can trim the stem on the Merula Cup to take it shorter. Most menstrual cups have one of the following:
- A stem that can be cut to length easily, or cut off entirely
- A ring that can’t really be trimmed except to cut it off to make it shorter
The Merula menstrual cup is kind of a hybrid between the two. It has rings, but at various lengths so you can cut off just one to make it a bit shorter. This is a nice option if you have a low cervix because you can trim it to just the right length.
It’s useful to have a ring, or a bit of stem on the end to assist with removal.
Higher than Average Capacity for the Merula Cup
The Best High-Capacity Menstrual Cups
Best Overall | Most Affordable | Newest High Capacity Cup |
---|---|---|
Super Jennie | Anigan Eva Cup | XO Flo |
42 ml capacity | 37 ml capacity | 38 ml capacity |
Check Prices | Check Prices | Check Prices |
How Often Do I Have to Empty the Merula Cup?
Because the Merula Cup has such a high capacity, you may be tempted to leave it in for a really long time. But, the recommendation for most menstrual cup companies is to empty your menstrual cup every 12 hours max.
This is to reduce your risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Bacteria can grown on your menstrual cup (or tampon) and you need to take it out and clean it well before putting it back it.
Of course, if you have a heavy flow, you may have to empty your Merula Cup more often than 12 hours.
Can I Wear the Merula Cup Overnight?
You’re probably used to a tampon, and worrying about wearing it overnight. You have to change one every 8 hours, so it can be a concern if you happen to sleep a bit longer than normal.
But, the good news is that you have up to 12 hours with the Merula Cup. You can empty, and reinsert it before bed, sleep through the night, wake up and have a leisurely breakfast, and then worry about your period.
Sounds amazing, right? It is.
What People are Saying about the Merula Cup
“The Merula Menstrual Cup is a great option if you have a very low cervix, but a heavy period. I’ve tried other cups but found that this one has worked the best for me.”
“I love that this menstrual cup doesn’t have any air holes because it makes it very easy to clean. The hook instead of a flat stem makes the Merula Cup super easy to remove as well.”
“Although it’s very stiff, it didn’t push too strongly against my urethra. Just FYI, you may feel like it doesn’t fully open inside of you. Don’t worry, it’s not supposed to (read the instructions). Despite this, it somehow doesn’t leak. Overall, I’m really happy with the cup, and I think it may be the best option out there if you have a very low cervix.”
Is the Merula Comfortable?
If you’re never tried a menstrual cup before, you’ll probably want to know if they’re comfortable, or not. They are quite a bit larger than tampons and it can seem a bit daunting.
When a menstrual cup is inside of you, you shouldn’t be able to feel it at all. It’s kind of the same as a tampon—it’s easy to forget that it’s even in there.
If your Merula Cup is uncomfortable, it’s probably inserted incorrectly. Take it out and try again.
If it keeps causing discomfort, then you might consider getting a new menstrual cup. A smaller, soft one will probably give you some better results.
Merula Menstrual Cup Review and Tips
How to Insert and Remove the Merula Menstrual Cup
Here are a few simple steps you can follow to insert and remove your Merula Cup.
Merula Cup Folding and Insertion
Be sure to wash your hands and the cup well before inserting the Merula Cup. Then, fold the Merula Cup (see above picture) using the punchdown fold.
Insert the cup into your vagina, and make sure that the rim opens when it’s inside. It’s okay if the bottom of the Merula stays partly collapsed. You should get the cup wet with some water to ensure an easier time inserting it.
A tip is to point the cup back and down, towards your tailbone. This will help to ensure that the Merula is in the correct position.
My Merula Cup Leaks!
If your menstrual cups leaks when you’re first starting to use it, don’t worry. This happens to most people and it takes 3-4 cycles before they really start to get the hang of it.
Re-read the instructions that came with your cup and look at their troubleshooting tips. This will often solve most of your problems.
Otherwise, be sure to point the cup back and down towards your tailbone, not up towards the sky when inserting it. This will help to ensure that your Merula Cup is under your cervix, not in front of it.
How to Remove the Merula Cup
To remove the Merula Cup, press the cup slightly downwards, and hold the stem. Move the cup downwards with zig-zag movements, until you can grasp the base of it. Press the bottom of the cup to break the suction seal, and then remove it.
Can the Merula Menstrual Cup Get Lost or Stuck?
It’s a common fear. You’ve got your cup in, but what if you can’t get it out? Or, what if it’s just gone?
The good news is that your cervix really does have a very small opening. Unless giving birth, nothing as large as a menstrual cup, or even a tampon can get through.
It can be the case that your menstrual cups seems stuck. This can happen especially in the morning. The first thing to do is relax, and try again in an hour. This will solve most of the problems.
If you still can’t get it out, try bearing down with the muscles in your pelvis, while reaching for the ring.
Finally, if that doesn’t work, go to the doctor. They’ll be able to take it out for your in seconds.
How to Insert and Remove the Merula Cup
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFhEFjHWxzI
How to Clean the Merula Cup
The company recommends boiling your menstrual cup before the first use, as well as after each cycle. You can do this in a pot of water, along with a pinch of vinegar on the stove, or in the microwave for 5 minutes.
You should rinse your cup well with water every time you remove it. The company suggests using cold water to prevent staining, although staining does not impact the performance of the cup.
We generally recommend using mild, water-based soap or a menstrual cup wash as well. This can help to keep the harmful bacteria at bay, and reduce your risk of things like yeast infections or Toxic Shock Syndrome. Just be sure to wash off any residue very well.
In a public bathroom, be sure to wash your hands before going into the stall. Then, take the cup out and wipe it with clean toilet paper. Wash it extra well when you get home.
Be sure to store the Merula Cup in the cloth bag that came with it. NEVER store a menstrual cup in an airtight container because this breeds bacteria like nothing else.
More details: How to Clean a Menstrual Cup.
Compare Menstrual Cup Washes
Can the Merula Cup Cause Yeast Infections?
You may want to know whether or not a menstrual cup, including the Merula Cup can cause vaginal infections. For example, a yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis.
Most people find that they get fewer yeast infections from a menstrual cup like the Merula Cup than compared to tampons. This is because it collects menstrual fluid, rather than absorbing it.
Some brands of tampons contain deodorizes, or other chemicals in them which can cause irritation. Menstrual cups offer a toxic chemical-free period experience.
If you do find that you’re getting more frequent yeast infections or cases of BV with the Merula Cup, be sure to do the following:
- Wash your hands before handling the cup, inserting, or removing it.
- Make sure you keep your Merula clean by washing it with soap and a menstrual cup wash every time you take it out.
- Sanitize our cup by boiling it in a pot of water on the stove for 5 minutes between cycles.
Why Make the Switch from Tampons to the Merula Cup?
If you’re currently using tampons, you may wonder why you should consider making the switch to the Merula Menstrual Cup. There are plenty of great reasons, and we’ll share just a few of our favourites with you here.
Go Green for your Period
If you’re looking to make your period more eco-friendly, you’ll need to make the switch to a menstrual cup. Consider this. Thousands of tampons, or 1 menstrual cup.
Heavy Period?
If you have a heavy flow, you’ll love the high-capacity Merula Menstrual Cup. At 50 ml, the XL Merula Cup has a capacity 5x more than a jumbo tampon.
Amazing, right?
Save Lots of Money
When compared to tampons, switching to a menstrual cup can save you thousands of dollars over a lifetime.
Reduce your Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome
There are hundreds of people who get TSS from tampons each year. To date, there’s only one person who’s gotten Toxic Shock Syndrome from a menstrual cup.
No More Toxic Chemicals!
Tampons often contain trace amounts of toxic chemicals in them. They come from the pesticides used to grow the cotton as well as the bleaching process during manufacturing. Eliminate this with the Merula Cup.
Is the Merula Cup the one for you? You can check it out for yourself over on Amazon:
Merula Menstrual Cup Pros:
- Perfect if you have a heavy period and low cervix (not many good options for you)
- Made in Germany from medical grade silicone
- Can last for up to 10 years
- Rings instead of a flat stem
- The rings on the stem can be cut to the desired length
- Variety of bright colours
- Come with a cloth pouch and instructions
Merula Menstrual Cup Cons:
- Difficult to find except on Amazon Germany (check it out there)
- Some people find it difficult to insert (unlike other menstrual cups in that it’s not really designed to open fully)
Can the Merula Cup Cause Cramps?
Can a menstrual cup cause cramps? You excitedly get your Merula Cup, insert it, and then find that it hurts. Is this normal? Is there anything you can do about it?
A menstrual cup shouldn’t hurt when it’s inserted. If it does, something is not right. A common problem is that it’s not inserted correctly, right under your cervix.
When you’re inserting your Merula Cup, remember to push it back and down towards your tailbone, not up towards the sky. Another problem might be that the rings are too long and causing irritation around the entrance to your vagina.
Beyond that, if a menstrual cup is still causing cramps, it may be too stiff and it’s pushing quite strongly against your vaginal canal walls. Try switching to a softer menstrual cup (we LOVE the Sckooncup).
Another problem could be that the menstrual cup you’re using is too big for you. The Merula Cup certainly isn’t a small menstrual cup, so this could be a likely explanation. Consider switching to a smaller cup (check out the small Lena Cup).
What about Sex with the Merula Cup?
A common question that people have is whether or not they can have sex with the Merula Cup or Merula XL. It’s a great question with an easy answer: no!
Well, that’s not the whole story. For anything up to penetrative sex, the Merula Cup is a great option because unlike with tampons, there are no strings hanging out.
However, for penetrative sex during your period, all regular menstrual cups (Merula, Diva Cup, Lunette Cup, MoonCup, etc.) are not great options. There just isn’t room for everything “up there.”
Even if you did try, both parties would probably find it pretty uncomfortable.
Consider the Ziggy Menstrual Cup for Period Sex
The Ziggy Menstrual Cup is a far, far, better option for sex during your period than a regular menstrual cup like the Merula.
Unlike normal menstrual cups that sit low in the vaginal canal, the Intimina Ziggy Cup sits right up below your cervix. It’s a flat, flexible disc which is what allows you to use it for penetrative sex.
In previous years, your best option was the Instead Soft Cups or Flex Menstrual Discs (very similar products made by the same company).
These things work really well, but the major downside is that they’re disposable. This means that you lose out on the eco-friendly benefits of a reusable product, as well as the cost-savings.
However, Ziggy Cups are reusable, and are made from medical grade silicone (the same material as the Merula Cup), which is why we’re very happy to recommend them for period sex.
You can check out Ziggy Cups for yourself over on Amazon:
Ziggy Cup Review
More Options for Sex During your Period
There are other options for period sex beyond the Ziggy Cup. Check out this comparison chart below:
The Best Period Sex Options
Best Overall | Most Eco-Friendly | Easiest to Insert |
---|---|---|
Instead Soft Cups | Intimina Ziggy Cup (reusable) | Soft Tampons |
Check Prices | Check Prices | Check Prices |
What about Toxic Shock Syndrome and the Merula Cup?
A common question that people have is whether or not you can get TSS from a menstrual cup, and is that risk higher, or lower than with tampons.
The overall risk from either tampons or a menstrual cup is actually quite low. This is especially true if you take basic precautions such as washing your hands before handling these products, or making sure to change/empty them frequently enough.
However, there are hundreds of people who get Toxic Shock Syndrome from tampons each year. To date, there’s only one reported case from a menstrual cup (the Diva Cup). It’s clear that the risk from a menstrual cup is lower than with a tampon.
More information: Toxic Shock Syndrome Warning Signs.
Merula Menstual Cup and IUDs
If you use an IUD, you’ll probably want to know whether or not you can use the Merula Menstrual Cup along with it. In general, it is possible, but it depends on your individual circumstances. Check with your doctor about your specific situation.
One key thing to keep in mind is that there should be space between your Merula Cup and the IUD. This actually make the Merula quite a good choice because it can be trimmed to make it quite short.
Here are a few tips for using the Merula Cup along with an IUD.
- Be extra careful when removing your Merula Cup. Be sure to squeeze in at the base with two fingers before pulling it out. DO NOT just pull it out by the ring without breaking the suction seal.
- You can ask your doctor to trim the stems on your IUD as short as possible.
- Check the location of your strings periodically to make sure they haven’t shifted.
Where is the Merula Cup Made, and From What?
The Merula Menstrual Cup is manufactured in Germany. We LOVE menstrual cups from Germany because they are usually of the highest quality, and the Merula Cup is no exception to this.
As far as what it’s made from, it’s the highest quality medical grade silicone. It’s the same material that is used for temporary implants, and it has an excellent safety record. It’s also free of any animal-based materials, so it could be considered to be vegan.
How Often to Replace the Merula Cup?
A common question that people have is how long a menstrual cup lasts for. When you’re spending upwards of $20 USD on a product, it’s good to know!
The company doesn’t really give specific details, but says it can last for “several years.”
In our experience, cups that are made from medical grade silicone can last for around 5 years. Some companies like the Diva Cup recommend replacing it every year or two, but this isn’t really necessary.
Others say that you can use a menstrual cup for 10+ years, but this isn’t usually the case. Five years is a good rule of thumb, assuming that you look after it well. Keep it clean, and never store it in airtight container.
Is the Merula Cup Safe?
An important question about a specific menstrual cup that you’re considering buying is whether or not it’s safe. After all, it’s a product that you’re putting inside your body for up to a week each month for years.
In the world of menstrual cups, there are two basic kinds:
- Top-quality cups from reputable companies that are made from medical grade materials.
- Cups that are made very cheaply in China and don’t have a lot of information known about them.
We never recommend the second category (very cheap cups) because they are usually not made from medical grade materials, and they’re often so flimsy that they don’t work that well.
What about the Merula? It’s certainly a top-quality cup made by a great company and is a product that you should feel safe using.
Check it out for yourself over on Amazon:
Can I Swim or Play Sports with the Merula Cup?
When you compare the Merula Cup to the period protection alternatives, it comes out far ahead of the competition for swimming or sports.
The main reason for this is the increased capacity. You can put in the Merula Cup before a big hike, or day at the beach and just forget about it. No more worrying about bringing tampons with you, or how to deal with changing them if there are no bathroom facilities.
If you’re looking for products specifically for swimming, then you’ll want to pair the Merula with Modibodi Leakproof Swimwear. It’s the ultimate period protection for swimming!
Can I use the Bathroom While Wearing the Merula Cup?
Okay, so if you’re never used a menstrual cup before, you may want to know whether or not you can go to the bathroom while using one. We have some good news for you: it’s entirely possible. Let’s talk anatomy “down there” for a minute.
You have three holes:
- Urethra, where pee comes out of
- Anus, where poop comes out of
- Vagina, where you insert a menstrual cup and where menstrual fluid flows out of
In theory, putting something into your vagina shouldn’t interfere either pooping or peeing.
However, some people find that it takes a really long time to pee while using a menstrual cup. This is because the bigger or firmer cups can push against the vaginal canal walls, which in turn can restrict the urethra slightly. The urethra is very close to the vagina.
As long as you don’t find the uncomfortable, it isn’t a big deal. If you do find it uncomfortable, then consider switching to a smaller, or softer menstrual cup.
The Takeaway on the Merula Cup
If you’re looking for a short, but high-capacity menstrual cup then you’ll need to strongly consider the Merula Cup. The Merula XL is the highest capacity menstrual cup you can buy at 50 ml.
Even if you have a medium-high cervix, but a heavy period, you’ll love this thing too! What makes it short is that you can cut off rings, but it starts at a slightly longer than average 72 mm.
The Merula Menstrual Cup is a top-quality period cup made in Germany from medical grade silicone. It has some excellent user ratings and reviews from customers and is easy to insert, and doesn’t leak for most people.
Check it out today if you’d like to have an affordable, eco-friendly, safer period experience.
You can get the Merula Menstrual Cup on Amazon:
Have your Say about the Merula Menstrual Cup
What are your thoughts about the Merula Cup? Would you buy it, or are you considering another menstrual cup brand. Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts.