Australia has a standard written specifically for this product. The Therapeutic Goods (Standard for Menstrual Cups) (TGO 99) Order 2018, made under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, has sections on permissible raw materials, design, packaging, labelling and the information that must come with every menstrual cup.
That makes the box one of your best tools for spotting a good period cup. Here's what to look for on the pack, in the leaflet and in the cup itself.
Quick answer: A good period cup is made from materials suited to the job, has a smooth surface and shape designed to minimise the risk of trauma, and comes with a label and leaflet that meet TGO 99: a toxic shock syndrome warning, a batch number, cleaning instructions and a statement that it isn't supplied sterile.
What should be printed on a period cup box?
Under TGO 99, the primary pack must be permanently and legibly marked with:
- the brand name
- the name and address of the manufacturer or supplier
- a batch number, labelled "Batch No." or "Lot No."
- the size, where that applies
- a warning in letters at least 1 mm high that starts "IMPORTANT: Menstrual cups have been associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)", calls TSS a rare but serious disease that may cause death, and tells you to read and keep the enclosed information
If a cup you're considering is missing these details, treat that as a reason to keep looking.
What information should be inside the pack?
A leaflet with detailed instructions. The order requires information on how to use the cup, including hygiene and care during insertion, detailed directions for cleaning and maintaining it, a statement that the cup is not supplied sterile, and information about toxic shock syndrome, noting that it is rarely linked to cup use but can still occur.
Because cups aren't sterile out of the box, the first clean matters. The instruction for the Lunette period cup is precise: Boil 5 minutes before first use and after each completed cycle. Lunette's Australian cleaning page adds a deep pot with plenty of water, keeping the cup away from the bottom and sides so the silicone doesn't burn.
What should a good period cup be made of?
TGO 99 says menstrual cups must be made from materials suitable for their intended purpose, must not contain ingredients at concentrations that could cause a toxic or irritant reaction when used as directed, and must have a smooth surface and shape. Jean Hailes for Women's Health notes that cups are made from rubber or silicone.
The Lunette period cup is 100% medical-grade silicone, free from BPA, PFAS, rubber and latex, and was independently tested by the Danish testing lab TÆNK with no unwanted substances detected.
How do I choose the right period cup size?
Match the cup to your flow and your body. Jean Hailes says cups come in different shapes and sizes to suit your body and your periods. Lunette offers two:
- Size 1 holds 25 ml, is 41 mm wide and uses softer silicone. Lunette suggests it for a light to medium flow, a low cervix, teens, strong pelvic floor muscles or a sensitive bladder.
- Size 2 holds 30 ml, is 46 mm wide and uses firmer silicone. It's the pick for a heavier flow or a higher cervix.
Whichever you choose, the Australian product page says the Lunette period cup can be worn for up to 8 hours.
When to see a GP
- If you think you have toxic shock syndrome, healthdirect advises calling triple zero (000) for an ambulance or going to the nearest emergency department. Watch for a sudden high temperature, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, confusion or a sunburn-like rash on the hands and feet.
- If you can't get your cup out, Jean Hailes recommends visiting your local health centre as soon as possible so a nurse or doctor can help.
- Jean Hailes says a cup in the right spot shouldn't be felt, so if yours keeps hurting, stop and talk to your GP.
Frequently asked questions
Why does a period cup box carry a TSS warning?
Because Australian law requires it. TGO 99 makes the toxic shock syndrome warning mandatory on every menstrual cup's primary pack and in its leaflet. Jean Hailes says a very small number of TSS cases have occurred in people who used a menstrual cup, and that more research is needed to understand the risks.
How long can I wear a Lunette period cup?
Up to 8 hours, according to the Lunette Australia product page. Empty it sooner if it fills up. Each Lunette cup has two measuring lines (5 ml and 13.5 ml on Size 1, 7.5 ml and 15 ml on Size 2), so you can see how much you've collected and adjust your routine.
How long does a good period cup last?
A Lunette cup can last up to 10 years if you care for it properly. Jean Hailes describes reusable products as more environmentally friendly and notes they cost more up front but may save money over time. Good care means washing between uses and boiling after every period.
Looking for a cup that meets every point on this checklist? The Lunette period cup is made in Finland from 100% medical-grade silicone, comes in Size 1 and Size 2, and lasts up to 10 years with proper care. Our period cup size guide sets out capacity, width and firmness side by side.
This guide is for general information and isn't medical advice. Talk to your GP or practice nurse about anything specific to you.
