Period cups vs. tampons: Why you should make the switch?

Ever feel like shouting from the rooftops about how amazing menstrual cups are, but don’t have the facts at your fingertips? We’ve got you. Here’s your go-to comparison chart to help you convert the curious and empower the hesitant.

Menstrual cup benefits

Period cups aren’t just a trend, they’re a revolution in period care. Here’s why:

Longer wear time: Most users only need to empty their cup 2 - 4 times a day, and it’s safe to wear for up to 12 hours, even overnight. Tampons? Max 8 hours.
Non-drying & gentle: Cups collect fluid rather than absorb it, keeping your vaginal tissue hydrated and irritation-free.
Eco-friendly: No applicators. No wrappers. No trash. One cup = hundreds of tampons avoided.
Discreet: No strings attached literally. No visible tampon string, no awkward bathroom moments.
Cost-effective: A one-time purchase that lasts up to 10 years. Tampons cost ~$120/year.
Safer materials: Made from medical-grade silicone, cups are hypoallergenic and free from bleaches, dyes, and fragrances.
Less cramping: Some users report fewer cramps with cups. Why? Tampons sit higher near the cervix and absorb moisture, which can cause dryness and discomfort.

Tampon drawbacks

Tampons have been the default for decades, but they come with baggage:

Frequent changes: Must be replaced every 4–8 hours to avoid TSS risk.
Dryness & irritation: Tampons absorb everything including your natural lubrication.
Environmental impact: Applicators, wrappers, and discarded tampons = plastic pollution and blocked drains.
Recurring cost: The average menstruator spends $84–120 per year on disposable products.
Fiber residue: Even organic tampons can leave fibers behind, causing irritation. In 2018, Kotex tampons were recalled for unraveling during removal.
TSS risk: Super-absorbent tampons can cause micro-cuts in vaginal tissue, creating an entry point for bacteria.

Menstrual cups are safer, cheaper, and better for the planet. They offer longer protection, less waste, and more comfort. Tampons? They’ve had their moment. Now it’s time to make the switch and help others do the same.

Discover what people are saying about using menstrual cups.