The menstrual cup glossary you wish product pages came with

Before choosing a model, it helps to understand the words used to describe one. This guide defines common menstrual cup terms without adding unsupported promises or medical claims.

Read the official MonthlyCup guide Next: size data

Shape wordsrim · body · stem

Function wordsseal · holes

Numberslength · capacity

Cup parts

Rim usually refers to the upper edge of the cup. Body describes the main cup shape that holds fluid. Stem refers to the small extension at the base that may help locate the cup, but MonthlyCup guidance says removal should include releasing the seal rather than pulling the stem alone.

Measurement words

Diameter is the width across the cup at its widest relevant point. Cup length may be listed without the stem, while total length includes the stem. Reading which length is being shown matters when comparing models.

Capacity to holes

MonthlyCup’s published guide lists capacity to the holes, not an unlimited fill line. The holes are small openings near the top of many cups and are part of how the cup is designed. Capacity figures should be read as product specifications, not as a promise of how long any person can wear a cup.

Seal and removal

The word seal is often used to describe the way a cup sits after insertion. MonthlyCup’s guide instructs users to release the seal before removal instead of pulling the stem alone.

Source note

This glossary is designed to help readers interpret manufacturer information. It does not claim independent clinical evidence or rank products.

Term

Stem

A base extension that can help locate the cup. It should not be treated as the only removal point.

Term

Holes

Small openings near the top. MonthlyCup model capacities are listed up to the holes.

Term

Total length

The cup length including the stem. This can differ from cup length without the stem.

Ready to read actual model data?

The official MonthlyCup guide lists Mini, Normal and Plus measurements and advises comparing them with individual preferences.

Read the official MonthlyCup guide

What does capacity to holes mean?

It means the listed capacity is measured up to the small holes near the top of the cup, according to the MonthlyCup guide.

Is total length the same as cup length?

Not always. In the MonthlyCup data, cup length is listed separately from total length, which includes the stem.

Should the stem be pulled for removal?

MonthlyCup guidance says to release the seal before removal instead of pulling the stem alone.