In the ongoing pursuit of safer, more sustainable menstrual products, menstrual cups have emerged as a standout option, offering reusability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. While silicone has long been the dominant material used in menstrual cup manufacturing, recent innovations in materials science have brought thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) into the spotlight. TPE cups not only offer different tactile and functional properties compared to silicone but may also carry unique advantages in terms of safety—particularly concerning Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
Understanding Menstrual Cup Materials
Most menstrual cups on the market are made from either medical-grade silicone, natural rubber (latex), or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Each material has distinct properties:
- Silicone is durable, heat-resistant, and hypoallergenic. It is often favored for its flexibility and ability to maintain shape over time.
- Latex, while elastic, poses allergy risks for many users and is less commonly used today.
- TPE is a flexible plastic-rubber hybrid that can be heat-molded and reshaped. It’s commonly used in medical devices, baby bottle nipples, and other applications where biocompatibility is essential.
TPE’s introduction into the menstrual cup market has allowed for cups that adjust to body temperature, offer a customizable firmness, and—according to emerging research—may reduce the risks associated with bacterial colonization, including TSS.
Revisiting Toxic Shock Syndrome in Menstrual Products
TSS is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by bacterial toxins, typically Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Historically, the condition gained notoriety during the 1980s due to a link with highly absorbent tampons, leading to major changes in tampon design and usage guidelines.
Though TSS remains rare, concerns around reusable menstrual products and bacterial proliferation persist. A 2018 study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology by Nonfoux et al. addressed this concern by comparing bacterial growth and toxin production in different menstrual products, including tampons and menstrual cups of varying materials.
The study found that certain materials and designs encouraged higher levels of S. aureus growth and toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1) production. Importantly, cups made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) exhibited significantly lower levels of S. aureus colonization and TSST-1 production compared to silicone-based cups [Nonfoux et al., 2018, DOI: 10.1128/aem.00351-18].
This finding suggests that TPE cups may present a safer profile regarding TSS risk, though all menstrual cups require proper hygiene practices to minimize any risk.
TPE and MeLuna: A Practical Example of Innovation
One of the most prominent TPE-based menstrual cup brands is MeLuna, a German manufacturer offering an extensive range of menstrual cups in various sizes, firmness levels, and stem designs. MeLuna cups are made entirely from medical-grade TPE, allowing the cups to be uniquely adaptable to the user’s anatomy and temperature.
Unlike silicone, which retains its shape regardless of temperature changes, TPE softens slightly when warmed by the body, allowing the cup to conform to the vaginal canal for a more custom fit. This can enhance comfort and sealing performance, especially during activities like exercise or sleeping.
MeLuna also offers multiple firmness levels—Classic, Soft, and Sport—to accommodate different pelvic floor strengths and sensitivities.
These options reflect a growing understanding that menstrual products should not be one-size-fits-all. Pelvic floor strength, vaginal length, cervix height, and lifestyle all play roles in determining the best menstrual cup for an individual user.
Customization and User-Centric Design
Another area of innovation lies in the increasing customization available with menstrual cups. Beyond material choice, users can now select from options including:
- Stem type: ball, ring, stem, or no stem, to aid in cup removal
- Cup length: to suit users with high, medium, or low cervixes
- Firmness and flexibility: to match pelvic floor tone or comfort preferences
- Color and finish: while aesthetic, these choices may influence how users feel about their menstrual products
These options aim to reduce the learning curve often associated with using menstrual cups. A properly fitted cup is less likely to leak, cause discomfort, or dislodge during movement—all common concerns among first-time users.
Environmental and Health Implications
Reusable menstrual cups have gained traction not only for their functionality but also for their environmental advantages. A single menstrual cup can last several years, replacing hundreds of disposable pads or tampons. TPE, being recyclable under certain conditions, may offer a more sustainable lifecycle compared to silicone, which is less commonly recycled.
From a health perspective, users are increasingly aware of what comes into contact with their bodies. TPE’s medical-grade formulation ensures biocompatibility, and as noted in the 2018 study, its lower bacterial growth profile may offer additional reassurance.
It’s worth noting that TPE is also free from latex and silicone, making it an excellent option for those with allergies to either of those materials.
Future Directions in Menstrual Cup Innovation
The menstrual product landscape is evolving rapidly. Ongoing innovation focuses on:
- Smart materials: such as cups that change color with pH shifts to alert users to potential infections
- Hybrid products: combining menstrual cups with absorbent backup liners or disposable inserts
- App-connected devices: that track wear time and volume collected, offering data-driven insights into users’ cycles
- Greater inclusivity: with companies offering menstrual cups for teens, post-partum users, and those with pelvic organ prolapse
As menstrual health research expands, especially into the microbiome and hormonal influences on vaginal health, product development will likely become even more personalized.
Conclusion
The menstrual cup market continues to diversify, driven by advances in materials and a deeper understanding of users’ physiological needs. Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), exemplified by brands like MeLuna, represents a significant innovation—offering customizable fit, temperature adaptability, and potentially reduced risk of TSS-associated bacterial colonization.
While proper hygiene and education remain critical for all menstrual cup users, the availability of safer and more adaptable materials like TPE expands the range of options for people seeking a reusable, body-safe alternative to disposable menstrual products. As research progresses and product lines evolve, menstrual cups are poised to become an even more integral part of sustainable and personalized menstrual care.
