Instead Softcup as a Fertility Aid?
Posted by Rachel on August 9, 2007
Can the Instead Softcup be used as a fertility aid? According to this website, you’d certainly think so. [A review: the Instead Softcup is a flexible plastic menstrual collection cup, inserted in the vagina to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorb it] The website in question [click the image to make larger] proclaims in its headline, “Now a Fertility Aid for TTC Couples!” That sounds fairly definitive. It goes on to state:
Now, trying-to-conceive (TTC) couples have discovered a new application for the Softcup – as a fertility aid! So how are women using the safe, hypo-allergenic Softcup to increase their chances of conceiving a baby? Easy! Instead of inserting the Softcup during their periods, trying-to-conceive couples are using the Softcup following lovemaking to help pool and hold sperm around the cervix! Alternately, semen can be directly deposited into the Softcup reservoir and inserted directly into the vagina and around the cervix.
The idea this website promotes is that the Softcup, which can be worn during sex, would instead (ha) be worn after sex to “hold in” all the semen. The claim is repeated near the “Buy Now!” button. Has Instead ever been tested or approved as a fertility aid, though? It appears that the answer is “no.” Instead’s own website includes this FAQ entry:
I am trying to get pregnant. Would inserting an INSTEAD® Softcup® Immediately after intercourse help trap sperm in place to help increase the probability that I get pregnant?
INSTEAD, Inc. has not studied the post-intercourse placement of an INSTEAD® Softcup® as a method to help improve the probability of conception. The use of the Softcup® as a pregnancy aid has not been cleared by the FDA. [emphasis added]
I did a search of the FDA site looking for information about the company’s claim that “Softcup fertility success stories are now so commonplace that Instead has filed for FDA clearance to officially market the Softcups as a conception aid!” In doing so, I turned up this odd adverse event report (something filed with the FDA when something goes wrong with a “medical device):
Patient inserted the instead softcup in january 2005 and when they [they?] tried to remove it 6 hours later was unable to get it out. 14 hours later they were sitll[sic] unable to get it out and became dizzy and deviloped[sic] a migraine. They finally called the paramedics to take them to the hosital[sic] where they had the cup removed by the physcian[sic].
Look, I’ve tried Instead. It shot out into the toilet when I sneezed. It is large and flexible, and has a firm outer ring, and sits inside the vagina. I have no idea how it could be stuck for 20 hours. I have no idea how having it stuck for 20 hours could cause dizziness and migraine. I fail to see how the assistance of a hand mirror wasn’t more called for than that of a paramedic, but perhaps one of you can enlighten me. To be fair, the FAQ says not to wear it for more than twelve hours, it also states that “the Cup cannot be lost inside your body.”
Neither 20 hours nor fertility aid are how the makers of the Instead Softcup currently intend for the product to be used, and their online information is clear on this point. Less scrupulous vendors of the product, however, are not quite so honest about what they’re selling.
[Hat tip to the blogger at Missed Conceptions]
Janet said
Pharmacy News Article
1/24/06 – Instead Submits FDA Application for Softcup as OTC Fertility Aid; Women’s Health Company Files 510(k) Device Clearance To Include Marketing Product for Fertility
Business Wire via NewsEdge Corporation :
LA JOLLA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jan. 24, 2006–Women’s health company Instead Inc. filed a 510(k) application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this week to obtain clearance to market its Instead Softcup product as an over-the-counter (OTC) fertility aid. A decision from the FDA is expected within 90 days.
The move to seek new claims on the Softcup, currently marketed as a feminine hygiene product, was stimulated by an underground movement of Softcup users. These women were employing the product as an internal device to hold semen close to the cervix. Instead vice president and general manager, Teri Hirschfeld, said the trend was first discovered in letters from users and on the company’s online message boards at http://www.softcup.com.
“These users, who represent a portion of the one in ten people of reproductive age affected by infertility, were seeking a simple and affordable option before going to more extreme measures,” Hirschfeld said. “They had learned, either from each other or online, that the Softcup could be inserted immediately after intercourse to promote conception, and had the amazing success stories to prove it.”
Potentially an OTC device for those trying to conceive (TTC), the Softcup is used as a reservoir to keep sperm close to the cervix. It may aid conception by helping maintain the maximum concentration of semen in the vicinity of the cervical opening. The Softcup must be inserted after sex while semen is still present near the cervix, or with sperm directly deposited in the cup itself, to promote conception.
“Beyond those experiencing infertility, we believe many of the more than three million women in the U.S. deciding to have babies every year will be interested in using the Softcup as an easily affordable and readily available way to potentially help advance the conception process.”
Following the anticipated FDA clearance, Hirschfeld said the Instead Softcup will be sold with the new indication for fertility on the package at its current points of sale.
“The fertility claim represents an exciting expansion in the innovative applications of the disposable Instead Softcup, which has been on the market as a feminine hygiene product since 1997, and is the only menstrual protection product that can be worn during a woman’s period for clean sex,” Hirschfeld added.
Instead Softcups are currently sold at retail outlets nationwide, including Target, Walgreens, CVS, Wal-Mart, Rite-Aid, Kroger and Fred Meyer, and online at http://www.drugstore.com. A package of six retails for a suggested $3.49, a package of 14 for $7.49 and a package of 24 for $10.49.
Instead also recently announced that its candidate microbicide Amphora(TM), which was cleared as a personal lubricant by the FDA in late 2004, will be used in a forthcoming clinical trial. A microbicide is a substance a woman can insert vaginally prior to intercourse to protect herself from infection by sexually transmitted diseases. Amphora was selected by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States Agency for International Development, Contraceptive Research and Development, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for a formative research study in Madagascar to test its acceptance by urban women at high risk for sexually transmitted infections.
About Instead, Inc.
Instead, Inc. provides women with new and different choices for greater freedom and control of their reproductive and sexual health. The San Diego-based company is dedicated to offering women better options in health care segments where their needs are underserved with products that are thoroughly tested for safety and efficacy. Instead has focused research and development efforts on period protection and feminine hygiene, contraception, prevention of sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS, and other conditions where vaginal therapy can be an effective preventative or treatment. More information about Instead and its products is online at http://www.softcup.com or http://www.amphoragel.com.
Janet said
http://www.conceptionkit.com/s-14-conception-kit.aspx
Rachel said
Janet,
This is interesting. I can find the lubricant in the 501(k) database, and the original approval of the device as a menstrual cup, but not any new use of the cup (including for conception). Likewise, Instead’s own website still says it has not been tested or approved by the FDA for this purpose.
Janet said
Hi,
I included the following link (http://www.conceptionkit.com/s-14-conception-kit.aspx) to address the following comment:
“The idea this website promotes is that the Softcup, which can be worn during sex, would instead (ha) be worn after sex to “hold in” all the semen.”
There appears to be a strong track record for cervical cups to do exactly that – keep semen in proximity to the cervix for the purposes of achieving conception.
I agree – the product does not have FDA clearance at this time for this application. But as the press release indicates, the company clearly intends for it to be used in this manner at some point.
Interesting dialog and a fascinating subject. I’ve never used the product in that way, and I don’t think I will, but I am intrigued!
Kristine said
I had no problem conceiving and probably would have fairly easily even without the instead cup. My family history is one of very fertile women. Here is how it happened for me:
First Child:
Month one: off birth control pill. no planned attempts to conceive.
Month two: planned attempts to conceive. No conception
Month three: planned attempts to conceive with Today Soft Cup after intercourse. PREGNANT.
Second Child:
Month one: off birth control pill. no planned attempts to conceive.
Month two: UN-planned attempts to conceive. i.e. “let’s just see what happens”. No conception.
Month three: planned attempts to conceive. No conception.
Month four: planned attempts to conceive. No conception.
Month five: planned attempts to conceive with Today soft cup. PREGNANT.
I’m sort of convinced it aids conception. Fairly straightforward train of thought. Let me ask this, how many women have held ridiculous post-intercourse postures in hopes of aiding conception. Try it.
Donna said
To Kristen –
THANK YOU for your input/data regarding your attempts at conception. Sounds like it worked for you. I have some on order already and should be ariving any day. Please wish me ++++ baby thoughts!
THanks again for sharing -
Donna
Kari said
What about using a diaphragm for the same purpose? Wouldn’t that work the same way?
Ashley said
I wouldn’t use a diaphram, many have spermicide on them which in turn would obviously kill the sperm.
Paige said
Instead Softcup works as a conception aid! I should know… after many failed months of TTC no.2, as soon as I used Instead (based on a friend’s recommendation) I found out I was pg! A few days ago, my husband and I received great news that our little girl is going to have a new baby sister.
Using Instead Softcup was so easy too! All I did was have it ready on the night stand and inserted it after intercourse. TCC has never been so simple- you can even find Instead Softcup at Wal-mart and most drug stores.
I recommend it to any couple who are feeling the struggles and frustrations of trying to conceive. It worked for me and the least you can do is give it a try. Hopefully my “Good Luck Charm” will work for you too!
Happy pregnancy vibes!
Rachel said
Thanks for sharing your story, Paige!
Clara said
I got pregnant easily last year but unfortunatly had a miscarriage. Now after 7 months of trying with no conception, I stumbled upon some testimonials about the instead softcup. I ordered them and we gave them a try during my last ovulation. It may have worked because my period as of today is a few days late. I haven’t taken a pregnancy test yet though. We’ll see, I’m keeping my fingers crossed. But if I’m not pregnant this month, I will definitly keep using Instead.
Jamie said
Hey, I was wondering if anyone can help? I have read that you can insert the cup with the sperm already in it, but I am having some problems with that. I am inserting it and the sperm is being squeezed out of the end that goes in last. What am I doing wrong? Can I insert the sperm the “turkey baster way” and then insert the cup? I was worried that it might keep the sperm from getting up to the cervic. The cup fits really tight even with it squeezed when it is going inside. Please Help!Any Suggestions are appericated. Thanx, Jamie
lorna said
am going to order instead softcup trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant so hopefully this will help
Mindy said
It worked for me! Tried it the first month and got pregnant. I tried for 6 months with my first pregnancy and that was very stressful. If you are having any trouble TTC, then use the instead cup! Good luck.
Mandy said
Well, it has been 3 years TTC and without any luck. This is my first month with using the softcup after my fertility drugs, and I will let you know if it works! I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
lorna said
hi everyone just an update on july 30th. used softcup twice leading up to ovulation date day 12 and day 13 and discovered we are pregnant last sunday sept 7th. its a first class product. weve been trying quite a while so id recommend it. dont give up hope im nearly 40 and thought all was lost. best wishes everyone.
Mandy said
It worked! I am stunned, but a believer!!
Leanne said
Hi,
I just discovered Instead Cups yesterday, and I went out and bought them. I’m now using them for my period. I’m really liking it. I slept in it and no leaks, although as of right now I’m on a light flow. I’m also TTC. It’s been 9 months of trying with no success, and friends all around me are getting pregnant. I’m going to give it a try this month as a fertility aid. I also just read online, from a woman who just went to see her OBGYN, that a womans egg really is only viable for 6hrs not 12-24. Also That sperm need to be in the body 6-12 hrs before they are even ready to penetrate the egg. With this new information it makes me wonder how women ever get pregnant. I usually ovulate from Cycle Day 17-19. So we are going to start trying on CD12 every other day until ovulation. Each time I will use an Instead Softcup. I will report back to this message board next month to share my results.
~Leanne
Autumn said
I had always used Instead Softcups for my period because I had a friend who got very ill from TSS. Instead Softcups has been shown to not cause this, therefore I was a big beliver in them. But when I found info as them being used as a TTC aid I was totally excited. It was like a light went off. After 5 months of TTC with no luck I started to use then this cycle. I am praying that this works. All of the testimony up to this point has been astounding. I am keping my fingers crossed!! Good luck to all of you who are also trying Instead SoftCups!!!
Emmie said
For those who found it effective: how long do you leave the softcup in after intercourse?
THANKS!!!
Amanda said
Hi
My husband comes home tired most days and it’s difficult for him to have sex….we have missed so many months when I was ovulating because of this. I wonder if he could ejaculate into the softcup and then I could insert the sperm into me. Apparently, he would find this less tiring! Any thoughts?
Emmie said
HELP!!! I used the Softcup after my last regular period (December 13). I have not had a period since, which would equal two missed periods. I have always had very regular periods. I had three negative urine tests and one negative blood test, plus bloodwork that says all my hormone and thyroid levels are normal. I am 40 years old with a 13 year old son and TTC for ten years (motility issues). I am having all the symptoms of pregnancy including the very light spotting around when periods should be that I remember from my son, plus tiredness, and huge hormone swings, but no nausea. My doctor says to see a psychiatrist, that maybe it is depression or stress, but actually I was feeling more hopeful and cheery than usual in December because I had a new strategy in the Softcup, so I don’t think that’s it. Is there anything else it could be?!
Any help is greatly appreciated!!!
Lindsay said
I just ordered the instead softcup yesterday!! Can’t wait to get it. Hubby and I have been TTC for 13mo. We got pg 12/08, however we unfortunately I had a miscarriage. I am really hoping this little thing will do the trick!! I thought they were too weird for periods but this is a fantastic idea that seems to have great results.
I ovulate in 12 days so I will let you know!
missy said
Just started using instead we will c
Angela said
I just brought the instead softcups at walmart. I heard about this on fertiliy friend site. I have been TTC since November 08 no luck yet. So I decide to try them. I will be using them this week April 16-23.
How long do you keep the cups inside you? Do you keep them in when you take a shower? The more information the better chances I have.
Gibbie said
Wow!! We have been ttc #3 for 9 months now. Reading this gives me hope. I am going to buy some today!!
Deb said
Hi Gibbie,
I’ve also been trying for 9 months so I’m with you on trying this product out. I figured its worth as try!
Deb said
After reading this site, I’m going to give this product a try! I’m 36 and have been TTC for 9 months. Keep your fingers crossed for me. I’ll write back to let you know if this product has helped, I’m also going to take some of the suggested fertility herbs like vitex and folic acid.
Gibbie said
Hi Deb! It’s nice to know someone else besides me TTC for 9 mos. Please let me know how your experience with Instead goes. I went to Target, Walgreens, and Walmart and could not find Instead. Have you bought yours yet and if so where?? Good luck!!
Gibbie said
Any luck Deb?
diavsaur said
So can anyone answer the question of how long to leave the cup in after intercourse. If you’re having baby making sex every other day would you insert it after sex and then leave it in until the next morning or beyond? Inquiring minds want to know!
Becky said
I think you leave them for 10-12 hours. They are not known to cause toxic shock so you should be fine. But, I would still take them off at that point. This afternoon, we are going to have Intercourse and then I will insert one. I just bought the conception kit on line a couple days ago and they are on the way to me. THEN…today when I was getting a massage, the massuese said – hey, how about using Instead cups? I was like…”whats that?” She said they are awesome and told me all about them and I was like…duh! $8 vs. $300? So, I went to Walgreens and bought a pack. Geesh! Wish I would have known that before hand. We have a few problems affecting fertility. First, my husband had a varicocele which was fixed through surgery 2 years ago. His count is still very low but is 5-25 million instead of ZERO. I am older at 42 so I don’t ovulate every month and I also have a tipped uterus to the front. So, these cups are supposed to help with both of our fertility issues.
lisa said
Becky just wondering if you had any success yet. I have been ttc for exactly one year this month after a tubal reversal and I am 44 yo. I’m trying to beat the clock for one more. I have 3 chilren 18, 21, 24 but than it was easy. my new husband is younger than me, no children and would like one Wow! alot of pressure! I ordered the softcup and plan to try it. I believe my husband has a low sperm count too. hope to hear from you.
Becky said
Please try these first before buying that very expensive conception kit – especially since it is essentially the same thing. Also, buy ovulation strips in bulk online. And, chart your temps!
Becky said
one more thing…..you think 9 mos is a long time to try. We have been trying for over FIFTEEN YEARS!!!!!!!!! He is an only child so there are no genetic grandchildren and I have one daughter from a prior relationship
Morris said
having a child after marriage is one of the joy that the couple may achieve but some aren’t lucky to have this. Some uses any fertility medicine to be a help in their pregnancy period. Other also uses Fertility kits for their medication.
Trying for 4 years said
Hello,
Tried TTC for 4 years with no luck. I just started using this month. Today is CD14, we BD last night and I inserted one right after we BD. Hope this helps. We’ll see I will keep u posted.
Rhea said
Hi there –
TTC for almost a year – have been using instead this month – will keep you posted!
In answer to the “how long” question – I pop one in after we dtd and take it out in the am.
Emmie said
Hi guys…turned out to be hormonal imbalance caused by herbal supplements. Try, try again! Back to the Softcups! Hope for a miracle for me.
Valorie said
Emmie,
I had the same thing happen to me! I was positive I was pregnant and had all of the early symptoms plus no period. After 5 home pregnancy tests, 2 blood tests, and normal thyroid test, my OB/GYN diagnosed me with a hormone imbalance as well. Also, I take a couple of medications for depression which can also have a huge effect on hormones. Anyway, I thought I was losing my mind, so it was nice to read about someone else who had a similar experience. My husband and I are TTC and this will be our first month using the soft cups. I wish for you the very best of luck and hope to see an update!! Here’s to praying for a little miracle for you:)
Traci said
Hi there, DH and I have been TTC for almost 2 1/2 years. I read about this on numerous websites and have decided to give it a try. DH already has one child from a previous relationship, and we are going to wait another 2 months before trying since I just had a miscarriage last month. I’m super excited to try this product and could use any other advice other couples have tried.
Thanks and God Bless.
Trying for 4 years said
Sorry guys, I thought I was going to get preg with this instead cup magically but AF showed up. My temp shoot up for a little while then it drop at 16dpo at 18dpo that’s when real heavy flow showed up. what a big disappointment!
http://www.fertilityfriend.com/home/2222cc
Gibbie said
Tried Instead this month. DIDN’T work. AF showed her ugly face! I don’t know if I’ll try these again.
Mari said
After doing some research on the web, I decided to try these this month. I figured what could it hurt? I bought a box of 14 for 9.99 at the grocery store, and had them on the bedside table ready to use. And now, after 20 months of trying, I am pregnant! I can’t say for sure that the soft cups helped, but it was a really cheap, easy method of improving our chances. I’m a fan for sure, now.
lisa said
Mari, your story gives alot of hope! trying for 12 months, going to try these soft cups, hope it does it! congrats!!!!!
Mari said
Thanks, Lisa. I am still so excited. Just a little more info, since I see you are also an “older” mother-to-be — I am 40. Actually it looks like I conceived just a few days before my 40th birthday. Best birthday present ever! And I don’t mind at all that I have to wait 9 months to open it. So, there is hope. Good luck to you!
lisa said
Mari that is awesome! I am so happy for you! yea, i am waiting for the softcups to arrive and like i said it can’t hurt ive already been trying for 12 months now without success! that is the best birthday present ever! I going to keep on trying and i’ll let you know i’m going to stay positive and say when i get a BFP!!!! I hope soon, gotta beat that clock! I’ll talk to you soon
lisa said
Mari, I forgot to ask? how long did you leave the cups in after sex and did you use them everytime during your fertile time?
Mari said
I used them every time while I was fertile. I’d put them in right after intercourse and leave them in all night. You can leave them in up to 12 hours. I probably left them in about 8 hours.
lisa said
ok thanks we’ll see what happens
Joates said
I can say it can’t hurt to try the instead cup. The first time I conceived it was after almost two years of trying. The second time I conceived was over two years later. No birth control used each time, I just assumed I wasn’t fertile. I tried the instead cup for one month. I am now pregnant. It worked for me, and for $10, not a bad investment.
Rachel said
Hello! These responses are great to hear. I’ve never heard of this device before. I’m going to try it this cycle. Is anyone else using these along with fertility meds – femara (aka letrozole)? Can you just get these at wal-mart or local store? I’m excited to try….fingers crossed!
Rachel said
Just wanted to make it clear, I’m not the author of this….I just noticed her name was Rachel too. lol.
Rhea said
Update:
We have been using them since May without any luck getting pg…..I’m wondering if the plastic could have a negative effect on the sperm?
I’ve still got a few left, so I’ll keep trying them…..
Heidi said
I just stumbled on this website. I am amazed at the results you are all getting. I have been TTC for 3.5 years. We have just finished a third cycle of 50mg Clomid. We are in the WW to find out. I don’t think that it happened this month. Just not feeling it. You have gotten my interest, I think that I may just have to go and try the Softcup.
Heidi said
Are you also elevating your hips after intercourse while using the SoftCups?
lisa said
well, no luck! used the softcup last cycle for the first time. I am still going to keep trying with the softcup and not give up yet. Going to Dr. monday see if he’ll start me on clomid if he thinks its for me. Time clock ticking. Everytime AF comes its tears! tears! tears! think i’m making it way worse on myself! good luck everyone!
Gibbie said
Well hit the 1 year of TTC mark without any luck. Tried Instead= didn’t work for me. Went to Dr. and he said “it’ll happen” So frustrated. Every month gets worse and worse when AF shows her UGLY face. Trying a new Dr. this month. Hopefully, he can help! Wish me luck.
lisa said
well i have to wait till next cycle but i just bought a fertility monitor. yeah i hit the one year mark this month. but still not losing hope. go to a new doctor monday. we’ll see!
Julie said
We have been TTC for a year and a half. We struggled for over two years with my first. I gave this a try and it gets stuck every time. I noticed a woman said that she sneezed and it just came out. She couldn’t see how they’d get stuck. Well, mine did. We are all made differently. I have an extremely introverted uterus. I inserted it properly and had my husband with me. I just thought that I’d warn some of you! We can get them out, but it is quite a painful struggle. If you’re wondering if I’m an idiot, I’m not. I’m an intelligent woman who can read instructions properly. We’re all made differently. I could see how someone could have difficulties. Oh… and by the way, a hand mirror would not be helpful for retrieving it from inside your vagina close to your cervix. Rachel, I hope you have been enlightened!
Deb said
I’m trying the instead softcup for the first time this month, I found mine at walgreens. I figured it was worth a shot. I’ll let you know how it goes. I was able to use them twice during my ovulation time… day 11 and 12… I left them in for about 10 hours.
Jessica said
My husband and I have been trying for over a year now, we had one unsuccessful pregnancy
And have been heart broken and frustrated since. I read about the insteads last month and decided to try this time around. We used them during fertile days. I am 4 days away from my period and have been experiencing Some cramping and strange twinges for the last two weeks (which is not normal for me)I took a pregnancy test (who am i kidding i took a 3) All negative. Im hoping its just a matter of taking them to early. Its funny Because I just feel pregnant (could be all in my head) But hopefully we will know soon. We are keeping our fingers crossed and hoping these things work. Ill let u know our results in a few day’s.
Rhea said
Thought I’d pop back in and say the Instead’s were no more help than anything else……still not PG…..we used them for about 3-4 months….
Marty said
I’m 40 and have been using the Diva Cup for 3 years now for my period. What a pleasure to use. I was going backpcking for 10 days & knew I was going to get my period – an online menstrual doctor recommended it – TRY IT. My husband & I just started last month to get pregnant (on a big backpacking trip). No luck. Now I have been reading: sex positions, 20 minutes with a pillow under you – & THEN raed use a menstraul cup. So I have been using it this month. I’ll keep you posted. But as someone else wrote – have it ready by your bedside ready to insert. I am very comfortable with my huband, but for romantic value I do it after he leaves the room, but start laying on the pillow minues after we have finished – he’sgetting a kick out of that – I’ll keep you posted – how exciting if the cup works – mine is a DIVA CUP.
Gibbie said
New dr helped!! + test!!!!!!! Good luck to everyone!!
Marty said
Congrats Gibbie!
I’ve decided to stop using the cup – it’s only our second month of trying. (Age 40)
Marie said
Marty, I think I’m going to do the same! I really didn’t care for my first experience and Heather who responed here asked a smart question: “what if the sperm are being kept out instead of being helped to stay in”? I think she has a great point! As for me, I’m not using it anymore!
Shelly said
Ok, so I’ve just ordered the cups but this is my question: is it possible for the cup to keep sperm out? What if all the sperm is not concentrated right at the cervix. If you cover the cervix then they can’t get to it. That is my concern.
Marie said
Shelly, you seem to be the only one thinking here! I hadn’t thought about that!! I don’t know what to do, I’ve ordered so many of them thinking this might be the solution! I’m really had trouble getting it out after using it for the first time and I did panic, but luckily, I was able to reach the rim and yanked it out. It’s a little scary and you’re brilliant question makes me wonder about it altogether!
Thanks for thinking for all of us! Good luck to you!
Heather said
I tried Instead last month and it didn’t work. I plan to give it another shot. I just wanted to put it out there that it’s not exactly a miraculous experience for all of us. Hopefully this month will be different.
Shelleyb said
We have been trying to get pregnant with kid #2 for 3 1/2 years. After 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments we have decided to try again(after a year break)I was online looking for simple things that we could do and I found out about these things:) I don’t think that they are going to be a miracle treatment and am very realistic. I do however think they could help and that maybe it could end up in a pregnancy…(granted it could take us up to a year of using them)We are giving it a shot…used it last night and ummm mine got very very stuck.(very tilted uterus) So if you have trouble getting this smart little thing out of your body you can try laying down,tilting your hips up and put your whole hand up(4 or 4 fingers) and try to grab the rim.It took me a couple tries.Try not to panic…..I did at first but took a deep breath and tried until I got it out.I think I have gotten the hang of it.Gonna put another one in tonight.I will keep this board posted………..
Shelleyb said
Oh I forgot………when you are having trouble getting it out…push like you are havin a baby and pull that sucker out.
Marquita said
My husband and I are TTC #3. We have been tryin for 6months now with no fertility assistance. I’m currently on Lovenox and I will during and 6wks post pregnancy. I’ve been looking for something to speed up the process as those lovenox shots are no fun! I will give this a try and keep you guys posted!
Marie said
Trying to conceive and tried the Instead Soft Cup for the first time. I left it in there for around 8 hours. When I tried to pull it out (lying down), I had trouble reaching it and getting it out. For a minute there, I grew afraid that it might be stuck and I might go through an embarrasing situation by having to go to a doctor to help get it out. I was relieved when I was finally able to reach the rim of the cup and snatched it out (no punn intended). Frankly, I’m a little afraid to try it again.
Marie said
Thanks Heather!
How to Conceive a Girl said
I wonder if we’ll have a sudden surge of women going to the E.R. with Softcups stuck fast?