FAQs

The sponge works like a reusable tampon: Clean it with a cleaning stick before your period, then simply rinse it with water, squeeze it, and insert it. It sits softly inside the body, doesn't dry out, and is easy to remove with the retrieval string. You can wear it while exercising, swimming, or even during sex – without feeling it. With proper care, you can use the sponges alternately for up to 6 cycles.

Yes – in most cases, a menstrual sponge can be safely used with an IUD. Because it doesn't create suction, there's less risk of the IUD's retrieval string being dislodged. Gentle use is important: moisten the sponge, insert it carefully, and when removing it, be careful not to pull on the IUD string. If you're unsure, talk to your gynecologist.

With a retrieval thread or tweezers – it's very easy. Squat down, tighten your pelvic floor muscles, and once the sponge is full, it will automatically slide down a bit. This way you can easily remove it.

Stay relaxed – anatomically the sponge can't get lost. Often, squatting, breathing deeply, and relaxing your pelvic floor muscles helps. Grasp the sponge with two fingers or gently pull on the string until it comes out. If that doesn't work, a gynecologist can easily help.

Before and after your period, clean your HERA menstrual sponges with our cleaning tablets. As with all reusable products, always wash your hands thoroughly. During your period, rinsing with water is sufficient. The sponges are naturally antibacterial and contain enzymes and minerals that support the vaginal flora and minimize the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Yes, it sits discreetly inside the body, absorbs the blood, and is as soft as a second skin – neither you nor your partner will feel it.

It's highly sustainable: Our sponge is a purely natural product, reusable, plastic-free, and biodegradable. Each use replaces several tampons or pads, thus reducing waste and resource consumption. Our sponges are carefully harvested from the sea and processed in Switzerland – for a natural and sustainable tampon alternative.

Yes – the menstrual sponge sits softly and securely inside the body and adapts to every movement. Whether swimming, yoga, fitness, or sauna: you can move freely without anything slipping. Depending on the heaviness of your flow, you should rinse the sponge regularly.

Many find the sponge particularly pleasant because it retains the natural moisture of the vagina and is very soft. It contains no chemicals or synthetic fibers – ideal for sensitive mucous membranes, dryness, or when tampons feel uncomfortable.

No, the thread is very thin and imperceptible. Each thread has a small clasp, so you can easily remove it if needed. If you tighten your pelvic floor muscles and squat, the full sponge will automatically slide down a bit – making it easy to remove.

The sponge can move a little further back. If you tighten your pelvic floor muscles and squat, it can be easily removed. With a little practice, this will become second nature – the important thing is to stay relaxed. Once it's saturated, it will automatically slide down.

No, the sponge absorbs the blood and sits discreetly inside the body. You can't see anything from the outside, and everything stays clean.

No, it's super soft and fits like a second skin. Many women even report feeling like they don't have their period when using the sponge.

No, they die as soon as they come into contact with air. Cleaning with tablets makes the sponge additionally hygienically clean.

No. It only absorbs the blood – not all vaginal fluid like tampons. Your mucous membrane remains supple.

Yes, the sponge is all-natural (without additives) and pH-balanced. It's gentle on the mucous membranes and contains no synthetic fibers. Many of our customers experiencing pain report that they tolerate the sponge well – its soft texture allows it to adapt to the anatomy and improve comfort during menstruation.

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is very rare , but can occur with any product worn internally . Warning signs: sudden high fever , dizziness/lightheadedness/drop in blood pressure , rash similar to sunburn , nausea/vomiting/diarrhea , muscle pain – seek immediate medical attention. Hygiene tips: Wash hands, wear for a maximum of 8 hours , and discontinue use if infection develops.

Yes, even young girls can use menstrual sponges – ideally the smallest size (mini). As with all reusable period products, it's important to maintain strict hygiene and clean the sponges according to the instructions.

Yes, absolutely. The sponge adapts to your body, doesn't slip, and keeps the blood safely inside – whether you're jogging, doing yoga, or swimming.

No. It's as soft as a second skin and so flexible that you'll hardly notice it in everyday life. Many customers say they even forget about their period when using the sponge.

Simply moisten it with water before insertion. This makes it supple, allows it to adapt gently, and ensures reliable absorption.

The HERA sponge is available in three sizes – based on the familiar tampon sizes:
Mini : for light days, Ø 4–5 cm, approx. 10–15 ml absorption (≈ 2 normal tampons)
Normal : for medium flow, Ø 5–6.5 cm, approx. 15–25 ml absorption (≈ 2–2.5 tampons)
Super : for heavy flow days, Ø 6.5–7.5 cm, up to 30 ml absorption (≈ 3+ tampons)
The sponges can be cut to size if needed, or two can be worn at the same time – for extra safety.

You can easily adjust or cancel your subscription in your customer account after your second order. Alternatively, feel free to contact us anytime at info@hera-organics.com – we'll take care of it.

Yes, you can trigger your delivery earlier or pause it – directly in your customer account. Alternatively, send us a short message.

Yes, for subscriptions we charge fair shipping fees: CHF 2.90 for Switzerland, €2.90 for Germany and €3.90 for Austria – regardless of the order value.

Send us a quick message if you'd like to return something. We'll tell you what to do next – including the address of our logistics center.

You can wear the sponge for up to 8 hours – even overnight, as long as you insert a fresh one before going to bed. During the first 2 days, when bleeding is heavier, we recommend changing it every 3–4 hours. Afterwards, simply rinse it, let it dry thoroughly, and use a fresh sponge in the meantime.

Yes, the sponge sits securely and discreetly – no threads stick out at the bottom. Perfect for the swimming pool, lake, or spa.

Yes, the thread is very thin and imperceptible. Each thread has a small clasp, so you can easily remove it if needed. If you tighten your pelvic floor muscles and squat, the full sponge will automatically slide down a bit – making it easy to remove.

For hygiene reasons, we recommend using the sponges alternately and replacing them after a maximum of 6 cycles. You'll also notice it yourself: when they become very soft, less absorbent, or change color, it's time for a new one.

Our cleaning tablets ensure a thorough and hygienic cleaning of your menstrual sponges – completely without unnecessary additives and with natural ingredients. This allows you to clean your sponges better than with conventional cleaning methods such as a vinegar and water solution.

You use the cleaning tablets before and after your period. Before your period, they ensure your sponges are hygienically clean before you use them again. Even if you haven't used them between cycles, we recommend cleaning them before each new cycle – simply because the storage pouch contains enough tablets for several weeks. After your period, cleaning with one tablet thoroughly removes any residue and naturally disinfects the material. One tablet is sufficient for all three sponges in your set. Simply dissolve it in warm water, let the sponges soak for about 20 minutes, and then squeeze them well. During your period, it's enough to rinse the sponges thoroughly with clean tap water after each use – this keeps them clean and hygienic even between uses.

The tablets contain only the essentials: gentle surfactants (5-15%), oxygen-based bleach (less than 5%), sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate to inhibit bacteria and mold, and subtle fragrances. Vegan, made in Germany, without harsh chemicals.

Yes, one pack contains 6 tabs, which is enough for about 3 menstrual cycles. You need two tabs per cycle – one before and one after your period. If you order multiple packs, you'll automatically have a supply for several months and won't have to worry about running out of tabs. This is especially convenient if you regularly use menstrual sponges and want a simple, safe, and predictable cleaning method.

You can use a mild vinegar and water solution if you don't have any menstrual sponge tablets on hand. Mix about twice as much water as vinegar – preferably white vinegar or apple cider vinegar – and let the sponges soak for at least 5 hours, ideally overnight. However, we advise against using this solution regularly, as vinegar has a strong odor, can make the material porous over time, and its cleaning efficiency hasn't been laboratory tested. Vinegar can also attract unpleasant odors, and you'll have to buy and mix fresh vinegar each time. In contrast, our tablets are specially formulated for menstrual sponges, laboratory tested, natural, and clean thoroughly in just 20 minutes – without unpleasant odors and without any extra effort.

The To-Go Case is your practical companion when you need to change your sponges on the go – whether at the office, during sports, or while traveling. It allows you to hygienically store used sponges until you can thoroughly clean them at home. This way, you don't have to improvise while you're out and about and always have a clean, discreet, and sustainable solution with you. The case is made of high-quality, food-grade silicone, is easy to clean, and remains completely odorless.

Yes, the to-go case fits easily into any handbag. It's foldable and can be unfolded again when needed, making it incredibly space-saving. When folded, it's only about 2cm high, and when unfolded, it's around 8cm – just the right size to perfectly fit your sponges without taking up unnecessary space.

When unfolded, it is approximately 8 cm high and offers enough space for a size L sponge or two smaller menstrual sponges.

If you want to change your sponges while you're out and about, simply take a fresh sponge with you in the small hygiene pouch. Before inserting it, moisten it briefly at the sink – a quick rinse with water is all it takes to soften it. Then, in the toilet cubicle, change the sponge: remove the used one and place it in the travel case, and insert the fresh one. This way, you can thoroughly clean the used sponge with water at home later. The case itself can then be easily rinsed with hot water or cleaned in the dishwasher. It's completely odorless, reusable for years, and ideal for travel – so you can stay flexible and hygienic even in public situations.