It is the dread of many people with an IUD (intrauterine device): that the period product "sucks" the IUD during removal and displaces the strings.
Between ordinary cups and menstrual discs, opinions diverge and it is difficult to navigate. So, should you change your habits? Let's clarify things to protect your contraception.
Article Summary
1- The real risk: The suction effect
First, we must dispel a common misconception: the risk of expelling an IUD is not linked to the material of the product, but to the removal mechanics.
If you create too strong a depression (a vacuum) without breaking it before pulling, you risk exerting suction on the cervix. It is this phenomenon that can potentially pull on the IUD strings or displace it.
2- Ordinary cups vs. Discs: Advantage disc
If you use ordinary cups (those with a stem or a ring), caution is advised.
Many of these models have a stem that people tend to pull mechanically to bring the cup down. This is the fatal mistake: pulling without pinching the base reinforces the suction effect on the cervix.
👉 In this duel, the menstrual disc scores a point.
Unlike ordinary cups, the Disc does not use suction to stay in place (it rests anatomically on the pubic bone). There is therefore no mechanical suction effect upon removal.
3- The special case of La Cup Luneale
Here, the match becomes a perfect tie. Why?
Because La Cup Luneale was designed differently (Patented Design). It does not have a stem. To remove it, you are forced to pinch the MoonPad (the ergonomic grip zone).
- This pinching pushes the air out and instantly breaks the suction seal.
- La Cup slides down smoothly, without suction on the cervix.
With La Cup Luneale or a disc, the risk of expulsion related to the suction seal is therefore almost non-existent if you follow the instructions.
Check out our complete technical guide: Wearing a menstrual cup with an IUD (Tutorial & Precautions).
4- How to choose according to your preference?
Since safety for your IUD is ensured in both cases (with a Disc or with La Cup Luneale), the difference comes down to your comfort and your anatomy:
- Wearing height: La Cup is placed in the vaginal canal (lower), while the disc is positioned higher (in the vaginal fornix, around the cervix).
- Handling: Removing the Disc requires reaching quite far into the vagina (you have to be comfortable with this idea), while La Cup is generally positioned low (so no need to reach as far).
- Sexual intercourse: The Disc allows for penetrative sexual intercourse during your period; the Cup does not.
Regardless of your period product (Cup or Disc), French regulations mandate a maximum wear time of 6 hours. This is the golden rule to limit the risks of Staphylococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) and avoid bacterial proliferation.
