How many menstrual cups do you fill?

Understanding Your Flow & Cup Capacity


๐Ÿฉธ Quick Answer:

Most people will fill 1 to 2 menstrual cups per day, depending on their flow. Over the entire period (typically 4โ€“7 days), that equals 4 to 10 full cups in total.

But let's break it down based on science and real-world experience.


๐Ÿ“Š How Much Do You Bleed During Your Period?

According to medical sources like the Cleveland Clinic, the average total blood loss during a menstrual cycle is:

  • 30โ€“60 ml (about 2 to 4 tablespoons)

  • Heavy flows: up to 80 ml

So you may be losing about:

  • 10โ€“20 ml/day on light days

  • 25โ€“30 ml/day on heavy days


๐Ÿ† Menstrual Cup Capacity

Cup Type Capacity (ml)
Small (light flow) 15โ€“20 ml
Medium (standard flow) 20โ€“25 ml
Large (heavy flow) 30โ€“35 ml

ย 

๐Ÿงฎ So, How Many Cups Will You Fill?

Flow Type Estimated Cups/Day Total Cups/Period
Light 1 every 10โ€“12 hrs 3โ€“5 total
Medium 1 every 6โ€“8 hrs 5โ€“7 total
Heavy 1 every 4โ€“6 hrs 8โ€“10 total

๐ŸŒŸ Real-Life Factors That Matter

  • Cup size & brand

  • Flow variation (e.g., Day 2 is usually heaviest)

  • Cervix height (affects placement and suction)

  • Experience level with using cups


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Track Your Flow

Many apps like Clue, Flo, or Period Tracker help log cup changes and give better insight into your personal flow pattern.


๐Ÿ› Recommended Cups

โœ… NYX Menstrual Cup + Sterilizing Box
โœ… NYX Extra Thin Period Disc


โœ… Summary

  • Most people fill 4โ€“10 cups per cycle

  • A single cup can hold 15โ€“35 ml, depending on size

  • Track your flow to better manage timing and changes

  • Menstrual cups are reusable, eco-friendly, and perfect for daily use

Switching to a cup? You're likely to be surprised at how little blood you actually lose โ€” and how convenient and cost-saving it can be!

ย 

Back to blog