Not all menstrual cups are safe: How to spot low-quality products?

We’re seeing more and more cheap menstrual cups popping up online especially on popular platforms like Amazon. And you know what they say about “too good to be true”? It often is.

We’re all for giving people choices, but when it comes to your health, informed choices matter most. Buying a low-quality menstrual cup from an unverified brand can lead to discomfort, irritation, or even serious health risks.

So let’s talk about what to look for and what to avoid.

What to look for when buying a menstrual cup?

Your menstrual cup should be:

Made from medical-grade silicone;
BPA-free, phthalate-free, and latex-free;
FDA-approved or compliant with relevant safety standards;
Durable, hypoallergenic, and toxin-free.

Cheap cups are often made from low-grade silicone and may contain contaminants like heavy metals, latex, or PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which can leach into the body through the highly absorbent vaginal tissue. Symptoms of exposure may include swelling, irritation, or hormonal disruption and some effects may take time to appear.

Red flags to watch for

Here’s how to spot a questionable menstrual cup company:

Low-quality product images or very few of them;
Spelling errors or vague product descriptions;
Generic or irrelevant reviews some may even be fake;
No clear company info no address, no returns policy, no contact details;
No social media presence or lack of engagement;
Much cheaper than other brands without explanation;
No customer suport or unresponsive communication.

Some companies even copy product photos, safety certificates, or patents from reputable brands, so what you receive may be completely different from what’s advertised.

How to research menstrual cup brands?

Thankfully, the internet makes it easier to spot the good ones:

Visit the brand’s official website, don’t rely solely on marketplace listings;
Check online forums for real user experiences;
Compare websites side by side and spend 10 minutes reading about their values, materials, and customer service.

Why it matters?

Your period cup sits inside your body for hours at a time. It’s not just about comfort - it’s about safety, hygiene, and long-term health. Choosing a reputable brand ensures:

No exposure to harmful chemicals;
A better fit and fewer leaks;
Reliable customer suport;
A product that lasts for years.

Don’t gamble with your health. If a menstrual cup seems suspiciously cheap, lacks transparency, or feels off trust your gut. Your body deserves better.

photo: courtesy of Pinterest