I bought my Divacup back in August and have used it for two cycles so far - I *LOVE* it. Last cycle I went hiking and kayaking in Portugal, something that I never thought I'd be able to do while on my period. The advice and support of this community has really been invaluable while I've been learning how to use my Diva Cup.
I've looked on the archives, but I couldn't find any advice on these three questions for you lovely ladies:
1) Time between emptying: The DivaCup (and most other brand) website says that one can wear the cup for up to 12 hours at a time. Why the limit? Is it just a leakage thing, or are there health risks associated with wearing cups for too long (as +12 hours)?
2) Boiling damage: The DivaCup is made out of silicone, which seems like a pretty inert material. The first time I used it, I tried to sterilize it by boiling it on a stove. However, I got a little distracted (whoops!) and when I finally turned off the stove, it had been sitting in boiling water for about 20 minutes. It looks/smells fine and has the same texture/springiness as it did before boiling, but I'm still a little worried. Can silicone be damaged by boiling it for too long?
3) Spinning: I use the "labial fold" (http://community.livejournal.com/menstrual_cups/769444.html) which has never given me any problems with popping open. I usually feel it as a very bodily *thud* in the center of my pelvis, and if I don't feel it then I know it hasn't popped open yet. However, I read about a lot of people "spinning" their cups once it is inside. How does one do this, and what is the purpose? Is it to make sure that the cup is open, or is it to check the seal? I've tried grabbing the stem of the cup and twisting it, but when I let go it springs right back and the cup itself doesn't seem to turn. How do you spin your cup?
Thanks so much, ladies. :D