The recent patent (US Patent Number 12672978) for a Menstrual receptacle applicator and method of inserting a menstrual receptacle was filed by Cleva LLC.
This innovative technology mechanizes the insertion of menstrual cups and discs, transforming how these sustainable products are used on a daily basis.
Why This Invention is Highly Innovative
For years, menstrual receptacles like cups and discs have offered a more sustainable and cost effective alternative to traditional absorbent products. However, mass adoption of these reusable items has been hindered by the dexterity required to manually fold and insert them. Cleva LLC has solved this widespread problem with a highly innovative applicator system. The patented device features a hollow cylindrical main body designed to house a rolled or compacted menstrual receptacle, paired with a specialized push rod. This design mechanizes the insertion process and completely eliminates the need for a user to manually guide the receptacle into place with their fingers. It makes the use of menstrual cups significantly more hygienic, quick, and accessible for a much broader demographic of women.
August 2026: Iowa State Patent of the Month
In August 2026, this groundbreaking applicator was officially named the Iowa State Patent of the Month. The award honors the device’s exceptional contribution to women’s health and sustainability, as well as its strong regional roots, noting that the patent was successfully prosecuted by the Des Moines based intellectual property law firm McKee, Voorhees & Sease, P.L.C. The Iowa innovation committee praised the invention for lowering the barrier to entry for reusable menstrual products. By offering a familiar insertion experience for a reusable cup, the invention promises to drastically reduce the environmental waste generated by single use menstrual products, an achievement that earned it top honors across the state.
Qualifying for the US R&D Tax Credit
The practical applications of bringing this patent to the consumer market provide excellent opportunities to qualify for the Research and Development tax credit in the United States. To manufacture the applicator at scale, engineers must resolve distinct technological uncertainties regarding material science and mechanical functionality. The iterative process of testing biocompatible medical grade plastics, developing the perfect compression fit between the main body and the push rod, and optimizing the 16 mm to 30 mm diameter for maximum user comfort directly aligns with the IRS four part test. Because these activities rely on the hard sciences of engineering and involve a systematic process of prototyping and experimentation to improve product performance and reliability, the associated developmental wages, supplies, and contract research expenses are highly eligible for federal and state R&D tax credits.
