I had essure placed about 10 years ago, which is permanent sterilization. For the last few years I've been really irritated to have to still deal with my cycle, it serves no purpose. And it's a real pain in the ass. I decided I wanted ablation as well, which is to cauterize the uterine lining to reduce how much it develops each month.
Insurance will only cover ablation if it is medically necessary, which is generally for menorrhagia (heavy flow). So on my last cycle I kept track of what cup I was using and how full it was each time I cleared it.
I feel so vindicated. I always felt like my cycle was a bit heavy, interrupting my social life and causing clothing and bedding issues, even with the largest volume cups I could comfortably wear... but I had no idea I was so far out of the realm of "normal".
Turns out normal is 30mL to 80mL per cycle. I rocked in at 185mL.
No guessing how much was in each sanitary napkin or tampon, I MEASURED damn it.
I've been using cups for years, but never thought to do this before. I'm going to do it again this month to compare.