What you should know when choosing non-toxic menstrual cups on Welpr:

  • Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
  • We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
  • The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Our Methodology and Ratings

Find Non-Toxic Menstrual Cup

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Soft Menstrual Cup - Saalt

Soft Menstrual Cup - Saalt
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/saalt-llc/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The Certified Plastic Negative certification means a brand removes twice as much plastic as it produces by investing in recovery and recycling programs. <a href="https://repurpose.global/brand-partners/saalt" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$28.99

Product Details

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  • Soft and flexible design made with ultra-soft silicone for comfort, especially suitable for those with bladder sensitivity, cramping, or discomfort using firmer cups.
  • Developed in collaboration with experts from Put A Cup In It, tailored for those with sensitivities.
  • Features a velvety soft finish, rounded transitions, and bulb shape for easy insertion, consistent sealing, and a comfortable, leak-free and odor-free experience.
  • The indented stem is designed to be flexible and comfortable, lacking abrasive ridges to prevent skin irritation.
  • Made in the USA with 100% medical-grade silicone, free from chemicals, hypoallergenic, non-toxic, BPA-free, and latex-free.
  • Does not interfere with body's natural pH, does not cause dryness, fibrous residue, micro-tearing, or risk infection and Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
  • With every purchase, Saalt supports initiatives to provide improved period care and educational opportunities for women and girls in need.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Effective
  • Convenient

Cons Mentioned

  • Messy

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Cup - Allmatters

Menstrual Cup - Allmatters
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.7
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/all-matters/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$26.00

Product Details

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  • 100% satisfaction guarantee with a money-back offer for unsatisfied customers.
  • Award-winning product, recognized with the AllergyAward 2019 for being skin-friendly.
  • Holds up to 3 tampons worth and can be worn for up to 12 hours, promoting less frequent changes.
  • Awarded “Product of the Year” twice and received the “Excellence Award” for sustainability.
  • Made from 100% soft medical-grade silicone, ensuring safety and comfort.
  • AllergyCertified, registered with The Vegan Society, and complies with medical device standards.
  • Storage bag provided is made from unbleached organic cotton to align with sustainable practices.
  • Designed without harmful chemicals, toxins, or artificial colourings, focusing on eco-friendly principles.
  • Offers a trial period where the product can be returned for a different size or refund within 90 days if not satisfactory.
  • Packaging is FSC certified, minimizing environmental waste.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Eco-friendly
  • Comfortable
  • Effective

Cons Mentioned

  • Painful

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

BPA-Free Reusable Menstrual Cup - DivaCup

BPA-Free Reusable Menstrual Cup - DivaCup
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.7
/5
Buy Now
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/diva-international-inc/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$29.74

Product Details

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  • Reusable and eco-friendly alternative to tampons and pads, offering comfortable protection.
  • Made from 100% medical-grade silicone without chemicals, plastics, or dyes.
  • Designed for users under 19 years old with up to 12 hours of wear time.
  • Features leak-resistant air holes under the rim to secure placement and ease of removal.
  • Recognized by the Society for Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada.
  • Certified by B Corp, meeting high standards of social and environmental performance.
  • Includes a sophisticated holographic sticker for authenticating the product online.
  • Covered by a 90-day Satisfaction Guarantee for refunds or replacements with conditions on proof of purchase and purchase source.
  • Protected by a Limited Warranty for three months against manufacturing defects, with conditions on proof of purchase and purchase source.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Durable
  • Eco-friendly

Cons Mentioned

  • Leakage

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Cup - Lena

Menstrual Cup - Lena
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.65
/5
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on Amazon
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$29.90

Product Details

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  • Designed for beginners and ideal for teenagers and adults transitioning from traditional period products.
  • Made from 100% reusable silicone for eco-friendliness and long-term use, potentially lasting up to 10 years.
  • Provides up to 12 hours of continuous use both day and night, suitable for various activities including sleeping and swimming.
  • Patented shape and flexibility allow for easy insertion, removal, and a comfortable fit that many users cannot feel once in place.
  • Helps prevent menstrual odor, irritation, and dryness, contributing to a more comfortable menstrual experience.
  • Includes a 100% cotton storage bag for hygienic storage post-cleaning.
  • FSA and HSA approved for purchase with healthcare accounts.
  • Collects menstrual flow equivalent to 3 to 4 super tampons, reducing frequent changes.
  • Available in different sizes and packages to cater to various needs including sensitivity and heavy flow.
  • BPA-free and toxin-free, emphasizing health safety and environmental care.
  • Manufactured in the USA, supporting local production.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Eco-friendly
  • Effective

Cons Mentioned

  • Tricky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Cup - kind cup

Menstrual Cup - kind cup
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.55
/5
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GREAT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the middle third of the best products.
Est. Price
$42.00

Product Details

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  • Patented ergonomic design ensures comfort and ease of use, suitable for beginners and those switching from pads or tampons.
  • Easy-to-reach, flexible long stem minimizes irritation during removal.
  • Curved shape enhances comfort, suits various cervical positions, and provides effective leak protection.
  • Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, ensuring safety and hygiene.
  • Reusable and durable, with up to 10 years of usage potentially saving significant expenses
  • Eco-friendly, reducing waste by decreasing the need for disposable pads and tampons.
  • Manufactured in California with a focus on quality, sustainability, and social impact.
  • Approved for FSA and HSA, offering financial flexibility for users.
  • Comes with a comprehensive user guide to assist with insertion, use, and removal techniques.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Easy
  • Flexible

Cons Mentioned

  • Leaking

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Disc - Saalt

Menstrual Disc - Saalt
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.55
/5
Buy Now
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/saalt-llc/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The Certified Plastic Negative certification means a brand removes twice as much plastic as it produces by investing in recovery and recycling programs. <a href="https://repurpose.global/brand-partners/saalt" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$32.99

Product Details

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  • Reusable and reliable, offering up to 12 hours of continuous wear.
  • Holds the equivalent of 6 tampons worth of menstrual flow.
  • Designed for a lifespan of up to 10 years, reducing waste and expenditure.
  • Features a built-in finger notch for easy removal, enhancing user convenience.
  • Does not rely on suction for sealing, making it suitable for use with IUDs.
  • Soft and flexible material, providing a sensationless experience when correctly positioned.
  • Allows for mess-free intimate activities during menstruation.
  • Free from BPA, latex, and toxins; vegan and cruelty-free with FDA registration and compliance.
  • Suitable for individuals with specific needs like bladder sensitivities, a weak pelvic floor, or unusual cervix height.
  • Supports a healthy pH balance and can alleviate cramps.
  • Offers support and tips for achieving "period bliss" through customer service.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Easy
  • Leak-proof

Cons Mentioned

  • Messy

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Disc - Cora

Menstrual Disc - Cora
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.5
/5
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on Amazon
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Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$29.99

Product Details

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  • Easy to use and insert, featuring a patent-pending finger-width groove for straightforward insertion and removal.
  • Sustainable alternative to traditional period products, reusable and constructed from ultra-soft medical grade silicone.
  • Can be worn for up to 12 hours, as it collects rather than absorbs menstrual blood, potentially reducing dryness and irritation.
  • Mess-free with its flat fit design, offering leak protection for restful sleep and exercise.
  • Made in the USA.
  • Lasts up to 10 years.
  • Suitable for a range of flows from light to heavy.
  • Fragrance-free and dye-free, minimizing potential irritants.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Leak-free
  • Easy

Cons Mentioned

  • Messy

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Cup - Voxapod

Menstrual Cup - Voxapod
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.5
/5
Buy Now
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on Amazon
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Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$27.98

Product Details

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  • Designed by women for optimal comfort, featuring dreamy soft, medical-grade silicone with a rounded base and flexible stem to prevent poking and chafing.
  • Utilizes Made to Move technology and a patented design, tested by athletes, ensuring the cup opens properly for a double leak-proof seal.
  • Offers up to 12 hours of leak-free and overnight protection, suitable for a variety of activities including swimming, running, and yoga.
  • Included mini menstrual cup case provides on-the-go convenience.
  • Made in the USA from washable and reusable medical-grade silicone, which is naturally hypoallergenic, non-toxic, BPA and latex-free.
  • Maintains natural lubrication and pH balance, devoid of unnatural odors, bulky padding, or irritating fibers.
  • Eligible for purchase with pre-tax dollars from flexible spending and health savings accounts.
  • Company commits to giving back 2% of every purchase to provide safe period care and keep girls in school.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Durable
  • Flexible

Cons Mentioned

  • Thick

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Period Cup - Rael

Period Cup - Rael
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.5
/5
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on Amazon
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Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$24.97

Product Details

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  • Provides up to 12 hours of protection against leaks, usable both during the day and night.
  • Made from ultra-soft medical-grade silicone for comfortable insertion and fit.
  • Features a user-friendly design with a curved rim and contoured base for spill-free removal and easy cleaning.
  • Manufactured in the USA with 100% medical-grade silicone that is free from BPA, latex, dyes, and phthalates; hypoallergenic and suitable for all skin types and menstrual conditions.
  • Reusable and washable, with a lifespan of up to 10 years with proper care; includes a carrying pouch.
  • Easy folding and insertion similar to a tampon, designed for ultimate control and comfort.
  • Slim, bell-shaped design ensures snug fitting and a secure seal for reliable leak protection.
  • Contoured base and stem facilitate mess-free, clean removal.
  • Cup maintenance includes sterilization before first use, washing with warm water and mild soap, and thorough drying and secure storage.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Easy
  • Freedom

Cons Mentioned

  • Staining

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Period Cup - Cora

Menstrual Period Cup - Cora
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.5
/5
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on Amazon
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Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$27.99

Product Details

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  • FSA/HSA eligible, allowing purchases with pre-tax dollars from your Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts.
  • Designed for comfort and ease of use, featuring an intuitive finger indent and soft silicone for easy folding and insertion.
  • Made from ultra-soft, premium medical grade silicone that is free of BPA and other toxic chemicals.
  • Washable and reusable, providing a sustainable alternative to disposable tampons and pads.
  • Tapered, textured base for a slip-free grip and spill-free removal.
  • Backed by a Perfect Fit Guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction with the product and its fit.
  • Note: Packaging may vary.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Flexible
  • Leak-free

Cons Mentioned

  • Messy

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade Silicone

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Menstrual Cup - Oi

Menstrual Cup - Oi
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.45
/5
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on Amazon
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$8.74

Product Details

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  • Made in Europe with medical grade TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers).
  • Free of silicone, latex, BPA, and phthalates.
  • Reusable and hypoallergenic alternative to tampons and pads.
  • Can be worn for up to 12 hours.
  • Features a silky smooth finish and flexible material for easy insertion and a leak-free period.
  • Uses vegetable-based ink for packaging.
  • Supports environmental and health consciousness by avoiding chemicals, crude oil plastics, perfumes, and synthetics.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Comfortable
  • Safe
  • Responsive

Cons Mentioned

  • Leaky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Medical Grade TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers)

Our Product Rating System

Our Product Rating System

First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.

Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.

Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.

Welpr Rating:

5.0/5

The Welpr Rating takes into account 3 things:

  1. Product Safety
  2. Consumer Satisfaction
  3. Ethics & Environment
Product safety

Part 1: Product safety

We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.

Consumer satisfaction

Part 2: Consumer satisfaction

We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).

Ethics & Environment

Part 3: Ethics & Environment

When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.

Common Harmful Chemicals in Menstrual Cup

Chemical Name

Why it’s harmful

Acrylic Acid

Acrylic acid is a colorless, volatile liquid used in plastics manufacturing, medicine, dentistry, among other things. Upon exposure, it absorbs and metabolizes swiftly, exhibiting a short half-life and zero potential for bioaccumulation. It could cause harm to eyes, skin, respiratory tract, and induce lung edema upon inhalation. Animal studies suggest acrylic acid has low to moderate acute toxicity and isn't teratogenic nor impacts reproduction, although in vitro genotoxicity tests have yielded inconclusive results. Acrylic acid has a low toxic impact on bacteria and soil microorganisms, but it's detrimental to algae and may reduce bacterial populations in penguins.

Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS)

Perfluoroalkyls are synthetic chemicals known for their ability to resist oil, grease, and water, primarily used in surface protection products and fire-fighting foams. The two most abundant perfluoroalkyls are perflurooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS). Studies have observed liver enlargement and elevated cholesterol in animals given high doses, and the presence of PFOS in various populations has raised environmental and health concerns, leading to the phase-out of some PFOS-based chemicals. Tests have shown a range of health effects in animals, including eye irritation, liver changes, teratogenic effects, and more, with no evidence of mutagenicity. However, no substantial link has been found between PFAS concentrations and increased cardiometabolic risk measures in human studies, and there are no known health effects from exposure when used as intended.

Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is primarily used to create salts that aid in the processing of producing fluoropolymers and fluoroelastomers. It also acts as a surfactant in firefighting foams, an intermediate in creating fluoroacrylic esters, and a crucial aspect in manufacturing Teflon and similar chemicals. However, exposure to PFOA can lead to adverse health effects, including alterations in thyroid hormone levels, lower fertility, an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease, higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels, a possible link to ADHD, smaller abdominal circumference and birth length in infants, an increased risk of common cold and gastroenteritis in children, and potentially prostate cancer mortality. Studies on animals have indicated possible liver and brain dysfunction, carcinogenicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity. Ecotoxicity studies found alterations in genes linked to lipid metabolism, hormone action, immune responses, and mitochondrial functions in rare minnows exposed to PFOA.

Fluorine

Fluorinated compounds, including Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are used in cosmetics like foundation, powder, mascara, and anti-aging products. These compounds are known for their stability and are challenging to break down in the environment, with some found in remote regions. PTFE, often used for its smooth finish, can be derived from perfluorooctonoic acid (PFOA), which might leave residual PFOA in the final product. PFOA has been associated with cancer, mammary cancer, reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and environmental concerns. While research on PTFE's direct cancer-causing potential is inconclusive, PFOA, a contaminant in PTFE-containing products, has health implications. PFOA has been detected in adults' body fluids worldwide and has links to mammary gland changes, endocrine disruption, delayed puberty in girls, and reproductive toxicity, including low birth weight. Additionally, it may affect the carcinogenicity of other chemicals when exposed together.

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About The Author

Camille May

Hey, I’m Camille, co-creator of Welpr and your clean living guide. After selling my last company in the health food space, I went non-toxic to heal an autoimmune condition. It did wonders for my health, but navigating which products to buy wasn’t easy. We created Welpr to make that journey feel a little bit easier. When I’m not working on Welpr, you can find me at the farmers market or unwinding in the sauna, always in bed at 9pm with a good book. I live in my hometown of Austin, TX with my pit bull, Romeo.