I was super skeptical thinking about using this, and now I cannot recommend this product enough!!! I’ve used it now for 3 cycles and this is hands down the best investment I have made all year! I did quite a bit of research and comparison shopping before I decided to purchase the VOXAPOD cup based on reviews, design, and price. I’m in my early thirties and have had one vaginal birth and am really active (run, yoga, hike, etc.). I reached out to the company to figure out what size would be best for me, because I wasn’t sure and they said they do free exchanges if the size I get doesn’t work, so I figured what do I have to lose? My flow is pretty heavy in the beginning and then tapers off by day 3-4, which is why I went with the small size and so far it has been perfect.
I love the packaging, modern travel case, and really helpful how-to guide that has lots of helpful tips in it.
It’s Comfortable + Saves Me Time - I can feel it for a minute or two after I insert it, and then I honestly forget it’s even there. It’s way more comfortable than tampons and I can go pretty much all day (10-12 hours) without having to empty it. I also like that I can put it in when I feel like my period is getting ready to start and not have to worry about leaking in my nice panties. I don’t have to worry about tampon pee string (ew!) or having to run to the store at the last minute when I realize I’m out or don’t have enough tampons.
Cool Design - The silicone is really comfortable and soft to the touch. The pinch grips make it much easier to remove and somehow help break the seal. I like that the stem is thick enough to help me reach the cup, but not hard so I can’t feel it––it also doesn’t have a hole in the bottom of it so I don’t have to worry about it being hard to clean. There is a thicker band of silicone in the middle that helps the cup open up after I insert it so I always know I’m getting a good seal.
Pretty Easy to Use - There’s a learning curve, but it’s not bad. I tried all of the folds, but the C fold was definitely the easiest for me. You basically just fold the cup in half and insert with this fold. I practiced in the shower initially, but I also just get the cup wet sometimes before I insert it to make it more comfortable. It took me a few tries the first time I used it, but overall it was pretty easy to insert. I was more afraid that it would leak, but it never did. After I insert the cup, I find that if I bare down a little or twist the cup, it reassures me that the seal has been made, and that’s probably why I haven’t had any leaks. That, and it seems to just do its job well. To remove, I can usually reach the cup just fine, but if I have ever inserted it too far, I can bare down a little to get the cup to where I can easily remove it. Don’t worry though, it can’t get lost in there. You don’t have to insert it as far as a tampon. In fact, my cup is actually the most comfortable when it sits lower in my vagina. The pinch grips make it easier to get a hold of to remove it and hang onto while emptying it in the toilet. It make take a few tries to get the hang of this, but just relax. I found that when I was vaginal muscles were tense it was harder to insert and remove. All in all, it was surprisingly more easy for me than I thought it would be, but I know it’s different for everyone, so be patient with yourself and don’t give up.
Cleaner Than Tampons - You only have to boil the cup between periods and rinse it between uses when on your period. I give it a quick rinse in the shower or sink before inserting it, which makes it more comfortable to insert. At first I was nervous about making a mess and thought it would be a nightmare in a public bathroom, but now I just take a wet paper towel or water bottle in the stall with me to wipe it off or rinse it off before I put it back in, like they tell you to. Also, it’s way more discreet than pads or tampons with all of the crinkling wrappers that announces my period to the whole freaking bathroom. I thought it would be smelly after sitting in my vagina, but it’s not stinky at all and I actually feel way more clean than when I was using tampons.
Saves Money - Okay, this little thing is gonna save me money every single month. It’ll pay for itself in 3 months. I used my Health Savings Account to buy it anyway, so bonus! I know there are cheaper cups on the market, but I wanted one that was made in the USA with quality silicone (not food grade), FDA registered (not just approved), and that had good customer service / return policy. I already worry about putting chemicals in my vagina with tampons, I wanted to make sure I was actually putting something safe in my body. I also love that it’s reusable and ecofriendly––makes me feel better.
Overall, I love this product and would recommend it.