How To Use A Menstrual Cup: Insertion Tips & Tricks

Menstrual cups offer an reusable option, for managing flow. Despite concerns using a cup is a simple safe environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to collect menstrual blood. Let’s go through the steps to make it easy, comfortable and effective.

Preparing to Use a Menstrual Cup: First, you’ll need to purchase a cup that suits your age, flow and anatomy. Different sizes are available to meet needs so be sure to read product descriptions and find the fit.

Cleaning and Disinfecting: Before using it for the time and after each period ends it’s important to disinfect the cup. Boil it in water for five minutes while making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pot. For cleaning during your period warm water and mild soap will do. Don’t forget to pay attention to the holes, near the rim for suction.

How to Insert a Menstrual Cup:

1. Clean:
   • Ensure the cup is clean and disinfected.
   • Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Fold:
   • Fold the cup to reduce its width for insertion.
   • Methods include the C-fold and push-down fold.
3. Insert:
   • Find a comfortable position (sitting, standing, or squatting).
   • Hold the folded cup, part your labia, and slowly insert it in the direction of your tailbone, maintaining the folded position.
4. Open:
   • Allow the cup to pop open inside your vagina.
   • Push the cup from the base until the stem is not protruding.
5. Rotate (Optional):
   • Some instructions suggest twisting the cup to ensure a secure seal.
   • Hold the base and give it a full rotation.
6. Check:
   • Confirm the cup is fully open by inserting a finger along the inside to ensure the rim has opened up.
   • Gently pull the stem to check for resistance or suction pressure.
7. Wear:
   • Once confirmed, wear the cup for up to 12 hours.
   • Consider using a liner or carrying an extra pad or tampon initially.

Step By Step Process To Insert a Menstrual Cup:

Also Read: 7 Best teas to relieve menstrual cramps

How to Remove a Menstrual Cup:

1. Clean:
   • Wash your hands.
2. Bear Down:
   • Get into a comfortable position (sitting or squatting).
   • Bear down to push the cup slightly lower for easier grasp.
3. Pinch the Base:
   • Pinch the base to break the suction seal.
   • Pull the cup from the pinched base for better control and less mess.
4. Empty:
   • Empty the collected blood into the toilet to gauge the volume.
5. Clean and Re-insert:
   • Wash the cup with warm soapy water.
   • Re-insert and continue use.

Tips and Tricks:

• Get to Know Your Body:
  • Use your fingers or a mirror to understand your vulva and vagina.
  • Explore the direction of your vagina and locate your cervix.
• Lubrication:
  • If facing difficulty, use water or a small amount of water-based lubricant to ease insertion.
  • Menstrual blood itself can act as a natural lubricant.
• Dealing with Leaks:
  • Ensure you are using the correct cup size.
  • Confirm the cup has opened up inside by gently pulling the stem.
  • Consider your insertion depth and cleanliness of the cup’s holes.

Remember, adapting to menstrual cups might take a few attempts, but the benefits make it worthwhile in terms of comfort, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.