How to Use a Menstrual Cup

Trying out new period products can seem confusing at first-especially when you come across something different like a menstrual cup. If you’ve ever thought, “How does that even work?” or worried, “Is that really going to fit?”, you’re definitely not alone. A menstrual cup is a soft, flexible cup worn inside the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Unlike pads and tampons, which absorb your flow and are thrown away after one use, menstrual cups are made to be emptied, cleaned, and reused, saving both money and waste. But how do you actually use one? Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to make using a menstrual cup feel much less mysterious and a lot more manageable.

What Is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a period product made from medical-grade silicone or rubber. It sits comfortably inside the vagina and acts like a little cup to collect your period blood. Unlike pads and tampons, which soak up blood and must be replaced frequently, the cup is removed, emptied, washed, and put back in again. This reuse means you’ll spend less money and create less garbage over time.

Even though menstrual cups seem new, they’ve actually been around for a long time. The first patent appeared in 1867, although earlier versions made of rubber weren’t very comfortable. Only in the last couple decades, with better materials, have menstrual cups become really popular and easy to find at major stores and online. They are sometimes called “period cups” and can be a good choice for anyone looking for a greener and reusable option.

How does a menstrual cup work?

What makes a menstrual cup work is pretty simple. After you put it in, the cup forms a gentle seal against the walls of the vagina. This seal stops leaks by keeping the menstrual blood securely in the cup. Most cups have a V-shape and a small stem at the bottom to help with removal, but there are also bell-shaped, round, and other types. The cup sits inside, just below the cervix, where gravity and the seal keep your flow contained until it’s time to empty it.

Because it collects rather than absorbs, a menstrual cup won’t dry out your vagina like tampons sometimes can. It also tends to cause less odor since the blood isn’t exposed to air. Most people don’t feel the menstrual cup once it’s in place, so you can do all your regular activities-including swimming, sports, and sleeping-comfortably. You remove the cup by reaching the base or stem and gently pulling it out.

What Are the Types and Sizes of Menstrual Cups?

Menstrual cups come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Most are made from medical-grade silicone, but some rubber ones exist (important to know if you have a latex allergy). The most familiar type is V-shaped, but bell-shaped, round, and even unique shapes designed for certain body types are also available. Some have a stem for easy removal, while some don’t to avoid any irritation.

Many brands sell menstrual cups. Popular ones you may see include Keeper Cup, Moon Cup, Lunette, DivaCup, Lena, Lily Cup, and more. There are even single-use, disposable cups like the Instead Softcup, but most are reusable. With so many options, finding the right cup might take a bit of trial and error.

Choosing the right size

Getting the right size cup is important for comfort and to prevent leaks. Brands often offer “small” and “large” sizes-and sometimes “teen” or “extra-large” too-but sizing isn’t the same across every brand. Generally:

• Small – for those under 30, who haven’t given birth vaginally, or who have a light/medium flow
• Large – for those over 30, who have given birth vaginally, or who have a heavier flow

Your age and birth history matter, but so do things like how high your cervix is, your pelvic floor muscle strength, and the firmness of the cup. For a low cervix, some cups might be too long. You may need to experiment before you find the right fit. If you have special questions or anatomy concerns, a healthcare professional can give advice tailored to you.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Menstrual Cups

Many people are turning to menstrual cups for good reasons. They have plenty of upsides-like being better for the environment, saving money, and being comfy to wear. But they also have some downsides to think about. Here’s a clear look at both.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Use a Menstrual Cup

If you’re ready to give a menstrual cup a try, that’s great! The first couple of times might feel a bit awkward, but practice helps. Stay relaxed, as this will make things easier.

Everyone’s body is different, so you might need to try a few techniques or positions to find what works for you. And always wash your hands before and after handling the cup.

Before using your cup

• Clean your cup before the first use and at the start of each period. Wash it with mild soap and water, then sterilize it by boiling in water for 3-5 minutes (no more than 10).
• Let the cup cool down completely before you touch it.
• Wash your hands before every insertion or removal.
• Practice insertion when you’re not on your period, using a little water or water-based lubricant for comfort if you like.
• Finding your vaginal opening and cervix can help with correct positioning.
• Some people find inserting the cup easier in the shower or sitting on the toilet.

How to fold and insert a menstrual cup

Folding the cup makes inserting it easier. Popular folds include:

• C-Fold: Press the cup flat and fold it in half to form a “C.”
• 7-Fold: Flatten the cup, then pull one top corner down to shape a “7.”
• Punch-Down Fold: Push the rim down into the base to make a narrow point.
• Origami Fold: Fold to make a point-which can help for higher cervixes.
• Half-Diamond Fold: Fold in half diagonally, then one corner down for a small tip and wide base.

Once folded, get comfortable-squat, sit, or stand with one leg raised. With one hand, gently open your labia. Hold the cup (folded) in the other hand, aim it towards your tailbone, and slide it in carefully at a 45-degree angle. Once it’s in, let go, so it can pop open inside you.

Making sure it’s in the right spot

The cup should open up fully to form a seal that keeps leaks away. If it’s in right, you won’t feel it. Try:

• Gently pulling on the stem to check for resistance (the seal is working)
• Running a finger around the base to check for folds or dents
• Rotating it slightly if necessary

Remember, the cup sits lower than a tampon, just below your cervix.

How long can you wear a menstrual cup?

You can wear most menstrual cups for up to 12 hours, much longer than most tampons. That means fewer bathroom visits and good overnight protection. If your flow is heavy, you may need to empty it more often. Track your flow for a few cycles to learn how often you should empty your cup. Never go more than 12 hours without emptying and cleaning it.

How to take out your menstrual cup

• Wash your hands.
• Sit, squat, or stand-whatever feels easiest.
• Use your fingers to find the cup’s base (not just the stem).
• Pinch the base gently to release the seal.
• Slowly pull the cup out, keeping it upright to avoid spills.
• If you have trouble reaching the cup, gently bear down with your muscles.

Take your time-removal gets easier with practice!

How often to empty the cup

Empty your menstrual cup at least two times a day (about every 12 hours). On heavy days, you might need to empty it every 4-6 hours. Many cups have measuring lines to help you understand your flow. Never leave your cup in longer than 12 hours for cleanliness and safety.

Tips for Beginners

• Stay calm. Being relaxed helps with insertion and removal.
• Don’t expect perfection the first time-practice improves your technique.
• Try different folds and positions to find what feels best.
• Use water or water-based lubricant for easier insertion.
• Aim towards the tailbone, not straight up.
• Don’t worry about it getting lost-it can’t go past your cervix.
• Expect a little mess at first-practice in the shower or over the toilet.
• Read the instructions that come with your cup-they might have special tips for their brand.

Cleaning and Storing Your Menstrual Cup

Keeping your menstrual cup clean is very important to avoid irritation or infection. With the right routine, it will stay clean and last for years.

Cleaning between uses

• Empty your cup into the toilet.
• Rinse it first in cold water to avoid stains.
• Wash with warm water and a mild, unscented soap (or cleaner made for silicone cups).
• Be sure to clean the small holes near the rim-use an interdental brush if needed.
• Rinse every bit of soap off, since soap residue can irritate you.
• If you’re in a public bathroom, wipe the cup with toilet paper, then clean it more thoroughly at your next chance.

How to sterilize your cup

• At the end of your period, boil the cup for 3-10 minutes in a pot of water. Don’t let it touch the bottom of the pot.
• Take the cup out with tongs and let it dry in the air.
• Some brands also allow for sterilizing tablets or special steamers.
• Check your cup’s instructions for exact details.

How to store your cup

• Store your dry, clean cup in a cloth bag or any breathable container.
• Don’t use a sealed or airtight box, since this could cause bacteria or mold to grow if there’s any dampness.
• Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.

Common Questions and Issues

Many people run into small problems when learning to use a menstrual cup. Don’t worry-these are normal and usually easy to fix with a few adjustments.

Why does my cup leak?

• The cup hasn’t opened fully inside you (try rotating it or running your finger around the edge).
• It’s inserted at the wrong angle.
• It’s too high and misses the cervix.
• It’s the wrong size for your body.
• It’s overflowing on heavy days-try emptying more often or using a bigger cup.
• The air holes are blocked-clean them thoroughly.

Take time to check the instructions and experiment with different techniques and positions until you find what works.

Insertion and removal tips

• Stay relaxed and try a position that opens your vaginal canal.
• Use a little water to help slide it in more easily.
• Practice when you’re not on your period to avoid pressure or stress.
• For removal, always pinch the base before pulling.
• Bearing down with your muscles can make it easier to reach the cup.
• Wiggle the cup out slowly after breaking the seal, rather than yanking on the stem.
• If it’s still tricky, give yourself a break and try again later.

Can you use a menstrual cup with an IUD?

Some brands are cautious about using menstrual cups with an IUD. There isn’t strong proof that a cup will pull out an IUD, but if you use both together, be extra careful not to tug on the IUD strings during removal. It’s smart to ask your doctor if you’re unsure. Always break the seal fully before taking out the cup if you have an IUD.

What if my cup gets stuck?

It may feel scary if you can’t reach your cup, but it can’t get lost inside you. If you have trouble:

1. Take a deep breath and relax your muscles.
2. Try another position like squatting or sitting on the toilet.
3. Bearing down (like when having a bowel movement) can help the cup come lower.
4. When you feel the base, pinch it firmly to break the seal.
5. If you still can’t get it out, seek help from a healthcare professional.

Quick Reminders for Menstrual Cup Use

• Menstrual cups are a good alternative to pads and tampons-cheaper, eco-friendly, and comfortable when you get the hang of them.
• The first cycles might be a learning process. Try different folds, positions, and don’t be afraid of a bit of lubricant.
• Keep clean hands and a clean cup. Clean your cup after every emptying and boil it at the end of your period.
• If you have an IUD or other health concerns, check with your doctor before using the cup.

Menstrual cups can make period care more convenient and eco-friendly-give it some time and you might find your period is easier to handle than ever before!