Verified answer

The best thing you can do is talk to her and see how it goes...

It's best when talking to parents to talk like an adult, if you do decide to try cups then discuss with your mom the benefits of cups. Tampons aren't recommended at your age due to higher risks of TSS and longer exposure to dioxin, where as menstrual cups are much safer so pose no risks. Explain the convenience for you; cups are far less hassle than tampons as they can be worn for 12 hours, with any flow, overnight, before your period, and no need to alternate with pads - far more convenient than tampons, especially on holiday. Also parents are often unwilling to buy something new for their children because they are worried it would be a waste of money - mentioning the fact cups are cheaper and you'd be willing to contribute would help convince her if you decide to use cups.

Menstrual cups don't hurt to insert.

As long as they are used correctly cups are far more comfortable to insert because they are smooth and not absorbent so there is no friction, there are no chemicals to irritate, and they are squishy so don't push into vaginal walls. Just like with tampons you need to be relaxed - if you're tense vaginal muscles tense, causing vaginal walls to clench together, where as if relaxed the vagina will easily accommodate the cup. If you do have problems then there's lots of support online to help you. As long as you have no health conditions and relax inserting a cup will not hurt at all.

Menstrual cups don't hurt during use.

Most women who switch from tampons to cups will tell you that they thought tampons weren't noticeable, but cups are even more comfortable - cups don't dry-out vaginal tissues or increase cramps like tampons can. If a tampon isn't inserted high enough it can hurt because the vaginal canal is narrower lower down and so the vaginal walls push against the hard tampon - cups sit lower than a tampon but still above that narrower part of the vaginal canal so it doesn't hurt, also cups are squishy (Ladycup especially is one of the softest brands) so even if too low it shouldn't hurt at all.

More information;

What Is A Menstrual Cup? - http://menstrualcup.co/?afcode=info

Menstrual Cup Community - http://menstrual-cups.livejournal.com/

Teens & Menstrual Cups - http://www.lunette.com/blog/2012/09/teens-menstrua...

Talking To Parents About Menstrual Cups - http://www.lunette.com/blog/2013/07/tips-for-talki...

I've done the cup thing before and it's a hassle, especially when you first start using it. Tampons are much easier. But if you want to try it, I say go for it because they're healthier and better for the environment. Just say something like, "Mom, I know you might think it's gross and weird but I think it's kind of cool and it's cheaper and better for the environment and stuff, so I was wondering if I could get a lady cup. I'll pay for it and everything, but I want to try it to see if I like it." She probably won't say no and if she thinks it's weird, it's because she's never tried it and she didn't grow up being surrounded with the option of a menstrual cup like today's girls are. Good luck!

"How do I ask my mom for a mensturalcup/lady cup?"

-If your mom is generally an understanding person then maybe approach her slowly like, "hey I'm really interested in something, and I did some research on it, would you keep an open mind please? I think this could help me" or something close to that style to try and avoid or calm down any negative reaction before it starts. People are usually weirded out at first when they hear about something they're unfamiliar with that's so different from what they're used to so if she does get grossed out or something try to be as understanding as you'd like her to be, and just stay calm and be nice about it. Ask her to keep an open mind for you.

"But like does it hurt trying to insert it?"

-It shouldn't but it can feel uncomfortable at first if you're not used to inserting anything. Lady Cups are really soft so insertion should be easier for you with that brand anyways (popping open can be trickier with softer cups though).

"Since its not like as far back as a tampon, doesn't it hurt really bad when it's in!???"

-No, not at all, I know the vagina seems small and tight but it really is built to stretch (and it does not stay stretched or get loose). When worn correctly cups are not felt at all.

It's all your choice. I've used a lady cup and you get used to it quickly. No it's not painful. Maybe only a bit at first. Get your mom alone and tell her you're uncomfortable with pads and tampons and that you'd like a lady cup. I'm sure she'll get you one. Good luck darling. -Laura

I tried it out. I don't really like cups. They hurt so much! Well they hurt to take out a lot. But if you really want one just tell your mom about TSS and that you think these are safer and better. That's what I said.

dude. just use a tampon. cups are nasty as ****