Merula Menstrual Cup One Size

Why We Love the Merula Menstrual Cup One Size

We particularly like the Merula's combination of a short, rounded body, generous capacity and flexible ladder stem. It offers an interesting alternative for people who want more capacity without choosing a particularly long cup body.

The firm rim is designed to open while the softer body can remain partly compressed, which gives the Merula a different feel and opening behaviour from many traditional menstrual cups. We also appreciate the ladder stem as a removal aid, particularly for people who find small stems difficult to locate or grip.

Its distinctive shape may take some practice, especially if you are accustomed to conventional bell-shaped cups. However, it is a useful option to compare if you are looking for a higher-capacity cup with a shorter body and an adaptable removal aid.

• 38 ml capacity measured to the top rim
• Rounded, bulb-shaped body with a 40 mm external rim diameter
• 46 mm widest external body diameter
• Firm rim designed to help the cup open, with a thin, soft and flexible body
• Short 39 mm cup body, excluding the stem
• Adjustable three-rung ladder stem that can be shortened to suit your needs
• Designed to accommodate different cervix heights, although individual fit varies
• Made in Germany from 100% medical-grade silicone
• Maximum wear time of 8 hours

This product may suit you if…

• You have a moderate to heavy flow and want to compare menstrual cups with higher capacities.
• You have a low or average cervix and prefer a shorter cup body without sacrificing as much capacity.
• You have a higher cervix and prefer a longer removal aid that you can comfortably reach.
• You prefer a rounded cup rather than a traditional tapered bell shape.
• You like a softer, more flexible cup body but want a firmer rim to help the cup open.
• You prefer a ladder-style removal aid that you can locate and grip with a finger.
• You are comfortable learning a slightly different insertion and removal technique.

Consider another option if…

• You prefer a narrow cup body. Although the rim measures 40 mm, the Merula reaches 46 mm at its widest point.
• You are sensitive to pressure from firmer rims or wider cup shapes.
• You prefer a traditional bell-shaped cup that opens fully along its body.
• You want a small, simple stem rather than a ladder-style removal aid.
• You find it difficult to release a cup's seal or prefer a different removal design.
• You need more than 38 ml of capacity and the Merula XL's dimensions are more suitable for your anatomy.

The Merula One Size has one cup body size with an adjustable three-rung ladder stem. The different length measurements refer to stem configurations rather than separate cup sizes.

Understanding the measurements

The 40 mm measurement refers to the rim, while the rounded body reaches 46 mm at its widest point. Both measurements are important when considering insertion, pressure and comfort.

The 38 ml capacity is measured to the top rim rather than to the air holes. Your usable capacity may be lower depending on your cervix position and how the cup sits.

Adjusting the ladder stem

The Merula has a flexible three-rung ladder stem that can be shortened to suit your anatomy and preferences.

It offers three length configurations:

• 72 mm with the full ladder stem
• 61 mm with the shortened ladder
• 50 mm with the further shortened ladder

Start with the full ladder and check how the cup sits before deciding whether to shorten it. A shorter stem may be more comfortable if you have a lower cervix, while retaining more of the ladder may make removal easier if the cup sits higher.

Do not remove the entire ladder, as this can make the cup more difficult to retrieve.

Cervix height, vaginal space, flow and comfort preferences are more useful considerations when choosing a cup than age or birth history alone.

• Material: 100% medical-grade silicone
• Country of manufacture: Germany

Merula received a VERY GOOD overall rating from the German consumer publication ÖKO-TEST in April 2022. This is a consumer test result rather than a product certification or a guarantee of individual suitability.

Each Merula Menstrual Cup One Size retail package includes:

• One Merula Menstrual Cup One Size in your selected colour
• One matching breathable cotton storage pouch
• Product instructions

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your cup.
2. Press part of the rim down into the cup to create a smaller insertion point.
3. Insert the folded cup gently. Water or a suitable water-based lubricant may help with insertion.
4. Allow the rim to open and check that your cervix is positioned within the cup's rim. The rounded body does not need to open completely.
5. Check that the cup is sitting comfortably. You may need to practise positioning over several cycles to find the technique that works best for you.
6. Empty and thoroughly clean the cup within 8 hours, or sooner according to your flow.
7. To remove, gently guide the cup lower using the ladder stem if needed. Press the cup body to release the seal before removing it. Do not pull the cup out by the ladder while the seal is intact.

Before first use and after each period, boil the cup in water for 5 minutes, following Merula's instructions. A small amount of vinegar may be added to help prevent limescale deposits.

During your period, empty the cup and remove menstrual fluid with clean water or by wiping away residue. Merula recommends disinfecting the cup using boiling or a suitable disinfecting product specifically compatible with silicone intimate products. Rinsing alone is not the manufacturer's complete cleaning recommendation.

Allow the cup to dry fully before storing it in its breathable cotton pouch. Avoid airtight containers and do not clean the cup in a dishwasher or washing machine.

Inspect your cup regularly for signs of deterioration or damage. Replace it if the silicone shows material fatigue or becomes damaged. Merula recommends considering replacement after approximately 3 to 5 years, depending on its condition and care.

Slight discolouration can occur with normal use and does not necessarily mean the cup needs replacing.

• Follow the instructions supplied with your cup and do not exceed the manufacturer's maximum wear time of 8 hours.
• Use the cup during menstruation only, not for postpartum bleeding.
• Always release the seal before removing your cup.
• Remove the cup before penetrative vaginal intercourse. Menstrual cups are not contraceptives and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
• If you have an IUD, seek medical advice before using a menstrual cup. Take particular care to release the seal fully before removal.
• Remove the cup if you experience pain. Seek medical advice if pain persists.
• Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is rare but serious. If you develop sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, a rash, dizziness or fainting while using the cup, remove it and seek immediate medical attention.
• Keep the cup away from children and pets.