Cervical height (low, medium, or high) plays an important role when choosing a menstrual cup. Familiarizing yourself with your cervix and determining its height will increase your chances of finding your perfect cup.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- What Is a Cervix?
- Where Is the Cervix?
- What Is a Low Cervix?
- Does the Cervix Move?
- When Should I Measure My Cervix?
- What Has the Cervix Got to Do With Menstrual Cups?
- Why Should I Measure My Cervix?
- Low, Medium, or High Cervix: Determining the Height of Your Cervix
- Low Cervix Menstrual Cups
- Low Cervix Menstrual Cups Comparison Chart
- How to Find Your Perfect Low Cervix Menstrual Cup
- Sources
But first things first.
What is a cervix?
What Is a Cervix?
The cervix is a tiny but very important part of the female anatomy.
It is essentially the connection between your vagina and your uterus.
It looks like a little doughnut of flesh around 3 cm in diameter, which varies in firmness depending on your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and arousal.
It is often described as feeling a bit like the end of your nose, earlobe, or lips.
It is sometimes referred to as the neck of the uterus (cervix uteri in Latin), similar to the neck of a bottle.
It may be possible to feel a small dent in the center.
It has a tiny opening that allows sperm to swim in and menstrual fluid to flow out.
The tip of the cervix can be seen from inside of the vagina during exams and can be reached and felt by a fingertip.
Your multifunctional cervix is also designed to adapt for childbirth, with the ability to expand up to 10 cm during labor.
The cervix is what allows your menstrual flow to travel from your uterus into the vagina, and then into your menstrual cup.
For some people, the cervix moves significantly lower during their period.
Since the cervix is usually relatively high in the vagina and the menstrual cup is placed low in the vagina, the cervix remains above the cup.
If your cervix sits low, it may be positioned inside your cup.
In contrast, tampons generally sit further up inside your vagina, just where the cervix is located.
Where Is the Cervix?
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus situated between the external os (external orifice) and internal os (internal orifice).
The cervical canal connects the interior of the vagina and the cavity of the body of the uterus.
In some women, the womb or uterus is tipped backward, pointing toward the lower back.
This is known as a retroverted, tilted, or tipped uterus.
Usually, the uterus sits upright, in a vertical or up-and-down position.
A tilted uterus is quite common, with 20 women out of every 100 having the condition.
The various possible positions of the uterus are as follows:
Retroverted: The uterus is tipped backward so that it aims towards the rectum instead of forward towards the belly.
Retrocessed: The uterus is tilted forward, with the cervical opening pointed toward the back.
Anteflexed: The uterus is tipped towards the bladder and folded over.
Retroflexed: The uterus is tipped backward and folded toward the back.
Many people with tipped or tilted uteruses find using a menstrual cup easy.
If your uterus/cervix is tipped or tilted, be sure to take some time to find which angle will suit you best when inserting your cup.
What Is a Low Cervix?
A low cervix is a term used to describe a cervix that is felt low in the vagina.
Does the Cervix Move?
The cervix is always on the move throughout your menstrual cycle.
Right before your period starts to a couple of days into your period your cervix drops lower.
In the middle to end of your period, the cervix may start to rise back up.
And as you approach ovulation and at the height of ovulation, your cervix moves up to its highest position.
It may move so high that it’s hard to reach or can’t be found.
If your cervix moves drastically, you may want to purchase a two-pack of menstrual cups that offer both a small and a larger size.
This will allow you to use whichever cup is more comfortable and/or easier to reach for you when your cervix is at its different heights.
When Should I Measure My Cervix?
Having a low cervix is often common after multiple births, and can occur naturally as you age.
If you suspect you have a low cervix, but you aren’t sure, it can be helpful to measure your cervix height before purchasing a menstrual cup.
Your cervix moves to different positions during your cycle, so it’s best to check the approximate measurement sometime right before your period starts to a couple of days into your period, which is when your cervix normally drops down to its lowest point.
Another tip is checking your cervix height at different stages throughout the month and your period, so you can be sure to pick a menstrual cup that fits you throughout menstruation.
What Has the Cervix Got to Do With Menstrual Cups?
Menstrual cups come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, but what’s important is that it sits below your cervix to collect the flow, while also being fully inside your vagina, including the stem.
If your menstrual cup sits past your cervix, your menstrual flow will go right past it, and you’ll experience leaks.
If your cup is positioned so that your cervix is mostly beside the cup, or the rim is just below the opening of your cervix, it won’t be able to collect menstrual flow and you'll experience leaks — it’ll still collect some menstrual flow, however.
Your cervix needs to be completely above the opening of your cup to collect all of your menstrual flow.
And for some people with a lower cervix, their cervix may dip inside the opening of the cup — that’s totally fine!
Why Should I Measure My Cervix?
If you know the length of your vaginal canal, ie. the height of your cervix, you’ll have a better chance of finding your perfect menstrual cup match.
Low, Medium, or High Cervix: Determining the Height of Your Cervix
Did you know your cervix changes position and texture depending on where you are in your ovulation cycle?
When you’re fertile and ovulating, your cervix will become softer and may feel similar to your earlobe or lips.
It will be much moister from cervical secretions and a dimple may be felt from the slight opening that allows your menstrual flow to travel from your uterus into your vagina.
Other times, your cervix may feel more firm (like the tip of your nose).
Or your cervical opening is closed and you might not be able to feel a dimple at all.
You can also picture the cervix like a small donut with a tiny hole in the center.
So make sure to check the approximate measurement sometime right before your period starts to a couple of days into your period.
There's no special equipment needed to determine the height of your cervix.
So how do you do it?
How to Measure the Height of Your Cervix
Again, measure your cervix right before your period starts or at the beginning of your period, and then again at the middle or end of your period.
1. Wash Your Hands With Soap and Water
Since you'll be using your fingers to feel your cervix, it's important to wash your hands thoroughly to prevent transmitting bacteria to your reproductive system.
If you have long nails, you might consider giving them a trim before feeling your cervix — a long, sharp nail could scratch your vagina!
2. Get in a Comfortable Position
A sitting position (rather than standing or lying down) allows for easy access to the cervix with a minimum of discomfort.
Sit on the edge of your bed or bathtub with your knees apart.
3. Insert Your Longest Finger Into Your Vagina
Gently move your finger into your vaginal opening and let it glide into your vagina.
Depending on where you are in your ovulation cycle, your finger may reach several inches into your vagina before you feel your cervix.
You may lubricate your finger with a water-based lubricant to help it glide in more easily.
Do not use any product not specifically labeled for use in your vagina.
4. Feel for the Cervix
The tip of your finger will touch the donut-shaped opening at the end of your vagina.
Your cervix is most likely to be at the top of your front vaginal wall (closer to your belly button than to your back).
You'll know it's your cervix if your finger isn't able to keep reaching further (the cervix may be hard to reach or completely out of reach depending on where you are in your cycle).
If measuring your cervix is difficult, ask your gynecologist at your next exam to assist.
They will be very familiar with menstrual cups and might even have some additional tips and advice that can help.
Measurements (Approximate)
Granted these measurements are not the most scientific, but for the purposes of determining the height of your cervix for menstrual cup usage, they will do just fine.
Low Cervix (Short Vaginal Canal)
If you can feel the cervix by inserting your finger to the first knuckle closest to the fingertip, you have a low cervix.
Medium Cervix (Average Vaginal Canal)
If you can feel the cervix by inserting your finger to the second/middle knuckle, you have a medium cervix.
High Cervix (Long Vaginal Canal)
If you can feel the cervix by inserting your entire finger to the third knuckle (the knuckle on your first), need to push further in to reach it, or can’t feel it at all, you have a high cervix.
Low Cervix Menstrual Cups
When choosing a menstrual cup for a low cervix it’s important that you check the body length measurements of the cup.
For a low cervix, you will need a shorter cup, i.e. a cup with a short body.
Note: You will be able to compare all of the cups side by side at the bottom of this post.
FemmyCycle Petite
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FemmyCycle Petite | 17.5 ml | 31 mm | 38 mm | 15 mm | 57 mm |
FemmyCycle Petite is marketed as:
"The FemmyCycle Petite menstrual cup is perfect for teens, smaller-bodied women, and those with lighter menstrual cycles.
With a 10% smaller design than the FemmyCycle Regular, the FemmyCycle Petite still holds up to 17.5 ml and features the same patented no-spill design and flexible removal ring.
It can be used for up to 12 hours, depending on the menstrual flow.
It is safe, cost-effective, and minimizes the mess and leakage associated with almost all other menstrual products.
It’s ideal for first-time cup users and can be worn during sleep, exercise, sports, and other daily activities."
The description doesn't specifically tell you that it's a low cervix cup but it is.
FemmyCycle Low Cervix
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FemmyCycle Low Cervix | 30 ml | 36 mm | 43 mm | 20 mm | 63 mm |
The FemmyCycle Low Cervix cup is a couple of millimeters wider and taller than FemmyCycle Petite.
Product description:
"The FemmyCycle Low Cervix menstrual cup is specially designed for women with lower than average cervices or shorter vaginal canals.
This means that your cervix is within 2″ of the vaginal opening, but not any lower.
Compared to the FemmyCycle Regular, the Low Cervix is shorter and has a smaller removal ring while still holding up to 30 ml of fluid.
If you have had discomfort or issues using traditional cups, a shorter cup may be the answer."
FemmyCycle Regular
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FemmyCycle Regular | 30 ml | 36 mm | 43 mm | 7 mm | 50 mm |
The FemmyCycle Regular is not advertised as a low cervix cup but it’s still shorter than most menstrual cups.
For example, the popular Lunette Model 1, which is their smallest model, is 47 mm in length (without the stem), and 72 mm with the stem.
And here’s FemmyCycles sales pitch for FemmyCycle Regular:
"The FemmyCycle is a revolutionary menstrual cup unlike any other cup on the market.
Invented by a doctor, the FemmyCycle menstrual cup features a patented no-spill design for less mess, a flexible removal ring for comfort, and is made from the softest medical-grade silicone.
The FemmyCycle Regular is easy to use, making it a great choice for first-time cup users.
It can hold up to 30 ml of fluid.
With up to 12 hours of leak-free protection, the FemmyCycle can be used overnight, during exercise, and throughout your day.
Ready for your best period ever?
Get your FemmyCycle today!"
Formoonsa Training Cup
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formoonsa Training Cup | 10 ml | 36 mm | 31 mm | 24 mm | 55 mm |
Formoonsa menstrual cups are designed and produced in Taiwan and they are made of medical-grade silicone.
They’ve been around since February of 2017.
The Formoonsa Training Cup is described as "to reduce your fear at first use", "this is for you to be able to practice how to fold, insert and remove the cup before you gain confidence".
The Formoonsa Training is the smallest of their three low cervix cups.
Formoonsa Standard Cup
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formoonsa Standard Cup | 20 ml | 44 mm | 37 mm | 17 mm | 54 mm |
The Formoonsa Standard Cup is a couple of mm longer than the Training Cup.
It’s "recommended for beginners".
"For women 30 years of age or younger, light flow".
Formoonsa Large Cup
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formoonsa Large Cup | 30 ml | 48 mm | 44 mm | 8 mm | 52 mm |
Formoonsa Large Cup is the longest of their three low cervix cups.
It is marketed as follows:
"For women 30 years of age and older, heavy flow, given birth."
JuJu Model 4
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JuJu Model 4 | 32 ml | 48 mm | 40 mm | 10 mm | 50 mm |
The JuJu Model 4 has a shorter body and stem and is more bulbous in shape compared to the other JuJu Models.
It’s the widest of the four models measuring 48 mm in diameter.
JuJu cups are available in two finishes:
Smooth and “grippy”.
“Grippy” is a newer finish.
The newer finish has a more pronounced grip pattern in a matte finish on the base of the cup.
The newer finish also has a thicker stem.
The JuJu Model 4 is only available in the newer “grippy” finish.
Bear in mind that a more pronounced grip pattern makes removal easier but may irritate the delicate tissue in the vagina whilst a smoother finish is more comfortable and easier to clean but more difficult to remove.
Me Luna Shorty
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Me Luna Shorty S | 15 ml | 38 mm | 35 mm | 12 mm | 47 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty M | 18 ml | 41 mm | 38 mm | 13 mm | 51 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty L | 22 ml | 44 mm | 41 mm | 14 mm | 55 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty XL | 27 ml | 47 mm | 44 mm | 15 mm | 59 mm |
Me Luna Shorty cups have a slightly different shape than the standard Me Luna.
They are slightly shorter and run tapered to a point.
The Me Luna Shorty pop opens more strongly and seals more firmly than other models.
This is due to the shorter cone shape.
Breaking the seal and removing the cup could, therefore, require more practice.
One reason I like Me Luna so much is that you can design your own cup!
You can choose firmness, standard or shorty, handle style, and size.
The Me Luna Shorty is offered in four sizes:
Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large.
You can choose between three firmness levels:
Soft, Classic, and Sport.
Soft being the softest, Classic is medium soft and Sport is the firmest.
And you can choose between three handle styles:
Stem, ring, and ball.
How cool is that?
Coupon 10% Off: MECO
Merula Cup One-Size
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merula Cup One-Size | 38 ml | 46 mm | 39 mm | 33 mm | 72 mm |
The Merula Cup is made of medical-grade silicone.
It's produced in Germany and was introduced to the market at the beginning of 2017.
One unique feature of the Merula is that the cup doesn't need to completely unfold.
Similar to the FemmyCycle.
The bottom of the cup can stay collapsed.
Merula cups do not have any air holes.
And it does not have any grippers at the base of the cup.
This can make removing the cup more difficult.
Merula cups have a long, ladder-shaped stem that you can easily trim with a pair of scissors.
Be sure to wash the scissors and cup before and after!
Low Cervix Menstrual Cups Comparison Chart
| Menstrual Cup | Capacity | Width/Diameter | Body Length | Stem Length | Total Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formoonsa Training Cup | 10 ml | 36 mm | 31 mm | 24 mm | 55 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty S | 15 ml | 38 mm | 35 mm | 12 mm | 47 mm |
| Formoonsa Standard Cup | 20 ml | 44 mm | 37 mm | 17 mm | 54 mm |
| FemmyCycle Petite | 17.5 ml | 31 mm | 38 mm | 15 mm | 57 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty M | 18 ml | 41 mm | 38 mm | 13 mm | 51 mm |
| Merula Cup One-Size | 38 ml | 46 mm | 39 mm | 33 mm | 72 mm |
| JuJu Model 4 | 32 ml | 48 mm | 40 mm | 10 mm | 50 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty L | 22 ml | 44 mm | 41 mm | 14 mm | 55 mm |
| FemmyCycle Low Cervix | 30 ml | 36 mm | 43 mm | 20 mm | 63 mm |
| FemmyCycle Regular | 30 ml | 36 mm | 43 mm | 7 mm | 50 mm |
| Formoonsa Large Cup | 30 ml | 48 mm | 44 mm | 8 mm | 52 mm |
| Me Luna Shorty XL | 27 ml | 47 mm | 44 mm | 15 mm | 59 mm |
New cups and models are introduced to the feminine hygiene market every year.
We try our best to keep this menstrual cup comparison chart in this article up to date but sometimes it can be hard to keep up.
To be absolutely sure you've got the latest info check our menstrualcup.eco Search™ database or CUP-FIGURATOR™ and filter by low cervix (this feature is coming soon for the search database — in the meantime use CUP-FIGURATOR™ and select "Low cervix" once you get to that question).
Menstrual Cups for a Low Cervix: Top 12 Cups YouTube Video
How to Find Your Perfect Low Cervix Menstrual Cup
There are over 200 menstrual cup brands in the world.
And searching and comparing menstrual cups manually can be time-consuming.
That’s why we developed CUP-FIGURATOR™ Menstrual Cup Finder.
CUP-FIGURATOR™ not only speeds up the process of finding a menstrual cup but it also provides you with some handy comparison tools that will save you even more time and effort.
And hopefully, some money too by not having to buy multiple incompatible cups before finding the right one.
So go and give it a try — go find your perfect low cervix cup!
Sources
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/retroverted-uterus
https://www.mycup.co.nz/tilted-uterus-and-menstrual-cup-use/
https://www.pixiecup.com/menstrual-cup-with-tilted-uterus/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cervix
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320965.php
https://www.saaltco.com/how-to-saalt/faqs/
https://menstrualcupreviews.net/high-or-low-cervix/
https://venuscup.com/cervix/
https://daisymenstrualcup.com/menstrual-cups-for-low-cervix/
https://rubycup.com/blogs/news/4-things-you-should-know-about-your-cervix-before-using-a-menstrual-cup
https://menstrualcup.co/your-cervix-and-menstrual-cups/
https://www.lunette.com/blogs/news/high-cervix-low-cervix-and-your-menstrual-cup
https://divacup.com/get-to-know-your-cervix/
https://www.wikihow.com/Feel-Your-Cervix
https://femmycycle.com/
https://www.formoonsacup.com/english
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