Tilted Cervix/Uterus & Menstrual Cups
Can I use a menstrual cup if I have a tilted or retroverted uterus?
The short answer for this is YES!
What is a retroverted uterus?
A tilted uterus means the uterus is tipped backwards so that it aims towards the rectum instead of forward towards the belly.
For most women their uterus tips forward and this is considered the usual position. However for about 1 in 5 women their uterus tilts backwards and is known as a retroverted or tilted uterus. For the majority of these women this is considered a completely normal variation and causes no issues at all.
What causes a retroverted uterus?
There are a number of reasons you have may have this.
- Natural variation between people
- Scar tissue or adhesions from pelvic surgery
- Medical conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Pregnancy
Generally a retroverted uterus does not cause any problems however for some it causes painful sex or period pain particularly if associated with conditions such as endometriosis). Always refer to your Doctor if you are experiencing any pain.
How do menstrual cups work with a retroverted uterus?
Menstrual cups sit in the vaginal canal and with a retroverted uterus they should sit below the height of the cervix. This can often mean that theyou position the cup lower than it usually would.
How to get the best fit for a retroverted uterus?
Most menstrual cup users with a tilted uterus will manage to use a reusable menstrual cup with no issues. However a few may find that using a cup needs slightly more practice and is a bit of a learning curve as they have to adjust the position slightly.
- It is important to ensure that you still have a good seal around the top of the cup. If the cup isn't correctly positioned creating a seal between your vaginal walls then it can leak or cause discomfort. If you do experience a leak keep trying your cup at different angles.
- Some people find that at it sits lower they prefer a smaller cup.
- As the cups sits slightly lower than people without a tilted uterus, you may find that you need to shorten the stem on your cup. Instructions for how to do this are found on our article "removing the stem of your menstrual cup."
- Chaning you insertion technique and allowing your cup to "open" earlier than you normally would allows it to sit lower.
- If you have a weak pelvic floor or sensitive bladder then using a softer cup also be an option.
What is the best menstrual cup for a tilted uterus?
The Me Luna Shorty range are excellent if you'd like a shorter cup. They are available in a wide range of firmness from soft cups, classic (average) or sports (firmest).
Ruby Cup comes in size options. A smaller size menstrual cup is a popular choice for those using a cup with a tilted uterus.
For softer cups consider the Saalt range who make their famous cup in a sorter material
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For those with a heavy cycle the Merula period cup is excellent. It's unusual shape and it's "ladder" allows it to be suitable for those with a high and a low cervix while also giving excellent high capacity.
If you are unsure which cup might suit you best then have a read of our article "choosing a menstrual cup" we also have an article on how to "measure your cervix height" and a "cup comparison chart" to help you. We also have team members who have tilted uterus so if in doubt our advice team will be more than happy to help you, email us on hello@theperiodlady.co.uk for your personalised recommendation.
If you couldn't use tampons can you use a cup?
If you unsure about using a menstrual cup as you can't use tampons, read our article which explains why you shouldn't worry.
Hi,
I used a mooncup for years and loved it, but after 2 csections, my lower abdomen is full of scar adhesions and tampons and cups have become very uncomfortable, sometimes painful. After the introduction and then the removal of an iud I was also told that my cervix is now at an angle towards the left side of my body, so I'm guessing this doesn't help either.
I really miss being able to use a cup though, would you have any recommendations at all? Something that doesn't sit really high and that is very soft and comfortable?
Thank you
Alice
Hi Alice, we would be very happy to help try and suggest a cup that you might find more comfortable. Can I ask you to drop me an email so we can get a few more details hello@theperiodlady.co.uk
Hi. I have a tilted cervix and I’m trying to use a menstrual cup. But it leaks EVERY time I try and I’ve tried to cut the stem and make it lower. I’ve also tried to twist it to make it pop open and done all the right things but it won’t stop leaking :(
Hi Lily, it sounds like the cup isn't sitting right and isn't getting a good seal. Do you want to drop us an email on hello@theperiodlady.co.uk with some more details and we can discuss options with you.