This menstrual cup and IUD guide will provide you with all the information you need to know to ensure safe use of your Me Luna menstrual cup with an IUD.

What is an IUD?

An IUD is a small T shaped device which is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. The IUD provides a hassle free and discreet contraception. Having an IUD insert is a very effective way of birth control and can be used for years. IUD’s can also help with painful periods and heavy bleeding. IUD’s come in both hormonal and non-hormonal options. They can be removed anytime if you decide you no longer need birth control.

Can you use a menstrual cup with an IUD? 

The great news is, YES, you can use a menstrual cup and IUD together! However there are a few things you should be aware of before using a Me Luna menstrual cup with an IUD.

Expulsion of the IUD

Your body can sometimes naturally expel an IUD from your body. If this happens it will normally occur over the first few months. There is no higher risk of expulsion when using a menstrual cup with an IUD, however we recommend to wait for 3 month before using your Me Luna again after have an IUD inserted. In the meantime we recommend the use of reusable menstrual pads. Reusable menstrual pads will come in very handy, as you many experience spotting for the first few months after your IUD has been inserted.
Once you are ready to use your Me Luna menstrual cup with an IUD, keep in mind that period cups create a suction to prevent that you have a leaking menstrual cup. Don’t worry the suction will not dislodge your IUD. However, keep in mind that you should always break the seal before removing a menstrual cup. This should be done regardless of whether you are using a menstrual cup with IUD or without. To do this simply pinch the base of your Me Luna gently which will release the seal and make removing your menstrual cup easier.

Strings of the IUD

IUD’s have two strings which protrude from your cervix. Depending on how long your IUD strings are they either sit inside or above of your sanitary cup. To make sure that the IUD strings are not hanging beside your cup, you can run your fingers around the edge of your period cup after inserting it.
Most women have their Me Luna positioned low at the entrance of the vaginal canal and therefore far away enough from the cervix and the IUD strings should not interfere with using a period cup. However if you are using a menstrual cup and you have a low cervix, the strings may sit inside your Me Luna. In this case you need to be a bit more gentle when removing a menstrual cup, so you don’t accidentally pull on the strings when pinching your period cup to break the seal.
If the IUD strings are bothering you, you can also ask your doctor to trim them for you.

If you have any concerns we recommend talking to your doctor about using a menstrual cup with an IUD