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Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Be Free with DivaCup! (review & giveaway)





Whether you look forward to your cycle or dread it each month, it is part of being a woman. I used to dread my cycle. Nay, I used to loathe my cycle. It was inconvenient to say the least. I wanted to swim, run around, go out for the day….. just be myself! Then there is this period thing getting in my way. It made me go to the bathroom every few hours, made me spend a lot of money on tampons (or maxi-pads if that’s your preference), and then there was the discomfort. The irritation from either type of disposable caused me numerous issues one way or another. Either way it went, I dreaded it.

When I had Bobble, I had already decided I was going to do cloth diapers with him. This research led me to find reusable options for myself, too…. including cloth and cups. Admittedly, I rolled my eyes at first, and then carried on my merry little way. The more I thought about it though, the more I was intrigued. I started researching and decided I was going reusable for myself, too!

It was 17 ½ months post-partum before I had my first cycle, and then it was only 3 days, too. It was that same month that I was offered a chance to review the DivaCup. I received my package right away, and excitedly opened it up to find my cup, little carrying bag, and a little “diva” pin. Since I have had a baby, I had to get a size 2 cup. There are two sizes, one for women under 30 who have never had a baby, and women who have had a baby or are over 30. I anxiously awaited my next cycle, hoping the first one (since it was so short), wasn’t a fluke. The proper timing came and went, and I found myself a bit disappointed I didn’t have my cycle. I really wanted to try the DivaCup!



Finally, a week and a half later, I got my chance! Of course it was the very same moment I finally took a pregnancy test to double-check…. what a waste of money on that test! The DivaCup, however, was super easy to use. I wasn’t a pro first shot since this was my first time using it, but a couple of tries and I had it inserted and ready to go! After the initial fidgeting to get it inserted properly, I had no idea it was there! What a nice change from that annoying feeling of tampons!

I was able to go through my entire day with no hassle to stop and find a restroom for changing, as the DivaCup can be left in for up to 12 hours. That meant I could take care of that when it was convenient for me, not when the device used decided it had to be done! Even better, that meant I could go throughout my day without the worry of Toxic Shock Syndrome being a consequence if I didn’t find a bathroom soon. If you’re a heavier bleeder, you can empty it more often if you need.  

Removing the cup was a lot easier for me than placing the cup. Since the cup has sealed off the area (yay for no leaks… successful installation!), it just made sense to me to use one finger and push in on the cup to ‘break the seal’. When that released, I just pulled gently down, and voila! Empty, rinse, re-use! It’s really that simple. No waste, no odor, no wrapping things up to hide in a trashcan, no worry about running out… it’s always there, always ready to use. Even if you opted to replace the cup yearly, you’d still save a boatload of waste AND money that would have spent on disposable products. The suggested cost of the DivaCup is $39.99 (USD/CAD), but compare that to how much you spend on the disposable products in one year. $100? $150? More? It definitely is the more cost-effective choice in the long run!



Hold up, did I say “no odor”? Why yes, yes I did! Since the fluid is captured in the cup, it is never exposed to air, meaning it never smells! The menstrual fluids only develop an odor when exposed to air.

It’s also surprisingly cleaner to use than I anticipated it would be. When I first heard of menstrual cups, I have no idea what I thought of, but I thought it might be gross. You’d get all messy, red everywhere… you get the idea. Thankfully, that was a complete misconception. You don’t get messy at all! It’s just remove, dump, rinse, re-insert. I have gotten waaaaay messier changing my son’s diaper! Even if you have a heavy flow, no worries! Did you ladies know that the average woman only flows approximately 1 to 1.4 ounces each cycle? The DivaCup can hold that entire amount! So even if you are a heavier bleeder than other women, they still have you covered!

Some research has suggested that the chemicals in disposable products such as tampons or maxi-pads can cause your body to bleed for longer, bleed heavier, and cause more menstrual symptoms like cramping. When I first had Bobble, I used disposable pads post-partum since you can’t use any inserted device for 6 weeks. After 4 weeks, I was still bleeding. I was uncomfortable, I was irritated (reacting to the chemicals), I felt BRUISED even! I had just happened across the above information and finally had enough and decided to just wear old underwear and let them get ruined. Within 24 hours of ceasing to use disposables, I stopped bleeding. I think the disposables lengthened my post-partum bleeding, as well as caused me great discomfort! I’ve had no cramping since using the DivaCup, though I didn’t have much cramping pre-baby, it’s been non-existent with the DivaCup.

So, are you curious yet? Do you want to try one now? I highly recommend giving them a whirl! You can use the store finder to locate your nearest DivaCup retailer, or shop online if there is nothing near you.

I will no longer be stuck interrupting my day to go find a bathroom, worrying about any smell, or worrying about leaks. I will be comfortable, active, and go to the bathroom on my own time. I will be free to choose when to worry about feminine issues, not have them force me to worry! I want the same for you, and so does DivaCup! In fact, they have offered a cup for one of my lucky readers! 
You can enter the giveaway below.

Don't forget to "like" DivaCup on Facebook and follow them on Twitter at @DivaCup for the latest news!

Have you ever heard of a menstrual cup before today or have you ever thought about trying a menstrual cup? If so, what is stopping you?

Disclosure: The product mentioned above was sent to me by the company in exchange for a review. This did not influence my opinion of the product in any way. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. 





66 comments:

  1. I have some friends who use the Divacup and love it. I'd like to give it a try!

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  2. I had no idea that menstrual cups have been around for 80 years! I thought this was a new things!

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    1. Nope! It was just replaced by convenience of throwing stuff away. (though I fail to see how it is much more convenient if you still have to take the time to insert/apply your disposable!)

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  3. LOVE the Diva Cup!! I wish I could be in a commercial for one! ;)

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  5. As a person who suffers from VWBD (blood disorder), I tend to have a heavier flow and tend to go through several tampons day.I would love the chance to win this not only to have more self confidence as a woman during that time, but to also start being more eco friendly!

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    1. This would definitely free up some time.... not so many bathroom trips! :)

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  6. I would love to win to try this out! I really don't like pads or tampons so this would be a different option!

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    1. Unlike tampons, you can't feel this if inserted properly! If you feel a tugging sensation, you've accidentally suctioned to the wall, so just break the seal and try again :) I was surprised at how comfortable it was! Then again, it's super flexible and moves with you, so there is no reason it shouldn't be comfy!

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  7. I learned the diva cup is made in Canada and has won many awards.

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  8. Thanks for the giveaway, I'd love a DivaCup to replace chemical-filled alternatives!

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  9. Thanks for the chance! I am so tired of spending money on disposable products, and would love a worry-free, eco-friendly way to manage my cycles!

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    Replies
    1. It's a great way to go green, and so much better for your body, too!

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  10. I missed out on several giveaways and just decided to buy it. I recommend that to every lady here who can afford to do so. I've been using it for three years this month and I can't imagine going back to disposables! As for heavy cycles... I get mine all at once in two days. I have to empty the cup about two or three times a day or it will overflow. But I have an unusually heavy two days. And that's way better than changing a tampon every 45-60 minutes!

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    1. Isn't it nice to not be worrying about going to the bathroom every hour? So much more comfortable, too! Glad you bought one, and maybe you'll win a second one to keep in your purse ;)

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  11. I use the Lunette but I'd also like to try other brands

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  12. The Diva cup can save as much as $100 a year

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  13. I love my diva cup! I'd love to win one for my sister. =)

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  14. I'd love to try an alternative to tampons. Thank you for the giveaway.

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  15. I'd love for my daughter to try it out. I've been using a diva cup for years and love it.

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  16. I have been wanting to try Diva cup for a while. Thanks for the opportunity!

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  17. I have a Diva cup and would love to share it with someone else! I love it!

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  18. I want to win a Diva Cup because I've had mine for years and need a new one. I love it!

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  19. I learned that the Diva Wash is vegan.

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  20. I learned that it is made in Canada

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  21. I would love to win this so I can give it to my friend Misty who really wants one but can't afford to buy one.

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    1. If you don't win, maybe you can pay for half and that might be enough for her to get one! :) I understand it's a little steep compared to what she might be used to paying monthly.... but compare it to a few months, a year, longer.... she might find a way to get one anyway :)

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  22. I've learnt that DivaCup supports many non-profit organizations to spread the word about reusable menstrual care products and to help put them into the hands of people less fortunate than us, such as Pads4Girls. They also do many other things so that girls and women all over the world have the same opportunities as we do.

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  23. I learned that the Diva cup is actually a lot safer than tampons or pads.
    Thank you!

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  24. i love diva cup. its so comfortable, no itches, no smells.

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  25. I would love to win this for a friend! I already have one and love it :)

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    1. I'd love to give one to my sister, but she just keeps saying she doesn't want to try one and will just "stick to what she knows". :(

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  26. I have a Diva Cup of my own and I would never switch back to tampons!! I have been trying to convince my best friend to try it out. But she is scared to spend money that she doesnt really have on something she has never tried. I didn't know that Diva Cup made their own cleaner! Ill have to invest in some!!

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    1. the monetary aspect can really be daunting, but man is it so worth it in the end!

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  27. SO interested in this but the price has stopped me from actually buying it. Here's to a free try!

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    1. I understand that hesitation, and good luck winning! If you don't win, I hope you will consider just purchasing the product. The price may be up there compared to disposables.... but it's all you need and all you will need for YEARS, so it more than pays for itself!

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  28. I've actually really been wanting to try this product, so glad I saw your review & giveaway for it. My period has just returned after being pregnant and nursing my now 10 month old. Would much rather use this than tampons!

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    1. They are definitely the way to go! It's trial and error with application, and I have read other reviews that said it took them up to 3 cycles to get it figured out down to a T, but it took me one day. Every body is different, but you get to know your body a bit better when using a cup! These are way more comfortable than any disposable product I've used!

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  29. I also am intrigued enough to try it. I've been waiting for a deal, but a free one is even better!

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  30. i am using one, which was given to me by my sister. its so comfy, but i would love to win one.

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  31. I've heard so much about these. I'd LOVE to win one so I can finally try it for myself!

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  32. I've been wanting to try one.

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  33. i would love to win this it seem easy to use and could save me alot of money on buying pads and tampons!! and thats awesome!! lol

    mommie2monsters@yahoo.com

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  34. I also tend to not be so lucky when it comes to giveaways, and I wanted to make sure I had one to try before the next dreaded week... I found one for $20 on Swansonhealth.com I had a promo code that I found online, I think it was newtenoff or something for new registrants to get 10% the whole order
    Anywho, cannot wait to try it out, my sister has used one for years and I never remember to actually buy it to try it out. Thanks for the great review- your blog is great.

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  35. I have a Diva Cup and love it. I'd like to win this one to give as a gift.

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  36. I learned why they don't sell colored versions. I never really thought about that as a risk when looking at competitor's cups...

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  37. i learned that you can keep the cup in for up to 12 hours! so you can sleep without worry!

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  38. i would like to win this because it is economical and better for the environment.

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  39. Just to do my little bit for the environment!

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  40. I have been wanted to try this, just not sure if I want to invest $40 in something I don't know if I will like.

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  41. It occurred to me that I use cloth diapers because I don't want to put toxic chemicals next to my son's skin, yet I'm still using pads and tampons!

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    1. There are so many things that I've changed since having Bobble.... and it all started because I wanted something better for him, then I realize "wait, I'm still using X..."

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  42. I didn't know they were around 80 years either..crazy

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  43. I am dying to try the Diva Cup!!!! I've been meaning to for ages now and just haven't done it. Only hurting myself.

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  44. I would like to win the Diva Cup because the one I have now is getting old. I absolutely LOVE the Diva Cup and I do not want to try another brand, but I cannot afford to buy a new one at the moment. Winning this giveaway would be such a blessing for me.

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  45. I learned that the Diva Cup's lifespan recommendation is to replace it once a year.

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  46. I like how easy and green this is. :)

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  47. I didn't know it was made in Canada. :)

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  48. I used a divacup before, but now since I had a baby I need the size 2!

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  49. I have seen this before on other blogs and have been wanting to try it

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  50. After use and proper cleaning, The DivaCup must be placed in something that will allow for air flow. For this reason each DivaCup you buy comes with a breathable drawstring cotton pouch. After proper cleaning, place your DivaCup in your carrying pouch, in a safe place, where it can stay until your next period.

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  51. I would love to win as it is so embarasing trying to change your pad in shool without making noise. This would make it so easy as i wouldn't need to change in school

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