How to use a Menstrual Cup
Using a menstrual cup is a learning curve. It takes patience and sometimes a few cycles to become comfortable inserting and removing it, so that it is positioned correctly and does not leak or cause discomfort. You may also want to experiment with different folds to find the one that works best for you. For maximum wearing comfort, it is important to first select the correct size menstrual cup.
Before first using your menstrual cup, it should be sterilised by boiling it (a rolling boil) in a large open pot for 2-10 minutes (Depending on the brand). It is important to make sure the cup does not touch the base of the pot, as the heat could damage and/or melt the silicone. Try placing the cup in the middle of a wire whisk to help prevent this from happening. Once your cup is sterilised and dry, it is ready for use.
Step 1: Prepare
Thoroughly wash your hands. You may find it helpful to lubricate the rim of the cup and the entrance to your vagina with a little water or water-based lube prior to insertion. Many first time cup users find it easier and less messy to insert their menstrual cup while in the shower.
Step 2: Which fold?
Decide which fold is best for you. Â While there are several ways to fold your menstrual cup, the C-fold (or heart fold) or Punch down fold (or shell fold) are usually the most popular. The Punch down fold is particularly favoured since it makes the insertion point of the cup smaller and easier to insert. The 7 fold (or triangle fold) is also handy for women who find insertion difficult – again another small fold.
Step 3: Fold and hold
Once you have folded your menstrual cup, hold it firmly between your thumb and forefinger.
Step 4: Insertion
With a firm hold on the cup, gently guide it rim-first into the vagina (check the position instructions for the particular fold you are using). You can do this while standing, sitting, squatting, or while in the shower. Through practice, you will find the position that is most comfortable and efficient for you. Your menstrual cup should be positioned in the lower part of the vagina, but beyond the pubic bone. Nothing should be protruding from the vagina (including the stem). If the stem is protruding, you should be able to cut it with scissors so that it is shorter (depending on the brand). It is best not to trim the stem until you are confident removing your cup. Once inserted, hold the base of the cup and rotate it 360 degrees. This ensures the cup has fully popped opened and formed a correct seal around the vaginal wall. You are now right to wear your menstrual cup for a maximum of 12 hours or overnight. If correctly inserted, you should not feel the cup or experience any discomfort. You are now free to partake in any activity you desire, including swimming, running, horse back riding etc.
Step 5: Removal
Before removing your menstrual cup, wash your hands with clean water. Relax! This is important. If you do not relax, your vaginal muscles will contract and tighten, and could make it harder to remove your cup.Â
With your thumb and forefinger, follow the stem of the cup up until you find the cup base. Break the seal by gently squeezing the bottom (base) part of the cup. If the cup is particularly stubborn, you can push your forefinger up between the side of the cup and vaginal wall, then push the side of the cup down and in on itself.
Carefully rock the cup from side to side while pulling it down and out of the vagina. DO NOT pull by the stem, as this will increase the suction of the seal and lead to discomfort. Once you have removed the cup, tip the contents into the toilet, sink, or shower.
Step 6: Cleaning
Rinse your menstrual cup under cold water first and then warm water. Ensure it is sufficiently cleaned before re-insertion, including under the rim and inside the air-holes. If water is not available (such as when in a public restroom), you can wipe the cup with some paper towel, toilet paper, or a menstrual cup wipe, and then reinsert it (note: if using a wipe, the cup must be dry before re-inserting). You can then give it a more thorough wash next time you empty it.
Step 7: Storing
Once your period is finished, thoroughly wash and sterilise your menstrual cup. Once it is dry, store it in its carry pouch. Storage in the pouch will ensure adequate ventilation. DO NOT store your menstrual cup in an airtight plastic container. It is advised to clean your cup before and after your cycle, as well as after emptying.
Read the manufacturers instructions
All cups sold by MCA Online come with detailed manufacturers usage instructions. While the above steps give an generalised guide for using a menstrual cup, the particular brand you purchase may have some additional information or tips for success. Before using a menstrual cup for the first time, we also highly recommend reading our first time tips, to help ensure you get the best start to your menstrual cup journey.
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms occur as a result of using a menstrual cup, please consult your doctor/healthcare professional
Explore some beginner friendly menstrual cups:
-
Lily Cup Compact
$ 44.95 -
Saalt Menstrual Cup
$ 44.95 -
Sale!
Ruby Cup
Original price was: $ 39.95.$ 34.95Current price is: $ 34.95. -
Sale!
Pelvi Menstrual Cup Bundle
Original price was: $ 24.95.$ 22.95Current price is: $ 22.95.
Frequently asked questions:
Learn more about menstrual cups with the FAQ’s below.
No. A menstrual cup should not cause any pain. In fact you should not be able to feel a correctly sized and inserted menstrual cup at all. If you can feel your cup or experience any pain, you may need a different style or size cup.
The recommendation by the Australian TGA is that a menstrual cup can be worn for up to 12 hours or overnight.Â
On average, menstrual cups hold around 30ml of fluid. This is compared to a regular tampon that holds approximately 5mls or a super tampon that holds around 10-12mls. There are also high capacity cups and menstrual discs which can hold up to 70ml.
While most brands of menstrual cup will use your age or level of flow to determine what size you need, we consider the height of your cervix to be the first and most important consideration. This will help ensure you don’t get a cup that is too short and difficult to remove, or too long and protruding from the vagina.
There are several advantages to a menstrual cup compared to disposable pads or tampons.
- A menstrual cup can be worn for up to 12 hours before needing to be emptied.
- Cups are reusable and can last for up to 5 years. This saves you money and reduces landfill.
- Menstrual cups do not interfere with your natural vaginal flora, making them a healthy alternative for down under.
- They can reduce menstrual odour.
- No strings, wings, or leaks.
- Cups can be worn during any of your favourite activities including swimming, bike riding, gymnastics, running, and horse riding.
- Cups are convenient and portable. One cup is all you need and it is easy to take with you wherever you go!
A menstrual cup is a bell shaped cup that collects rather than absorbs menstrual fluid. When inserted correctly the rim of the cup creates a seal around the vaginal walls preventing leaks. Once full, the cup is removed, emptied, and then re-inserted.
No, a menstrual cup cannot get lost inside of you. A cup cannot go any further than the cervix and will always remain in the vaginal canal. If you have trouble reaching your cup, you may have a high cervix and a cup that is too short. Please read our removal tips for help.
Learn more about menstrual cups and discs:
What are the differences between Menstrual Cups and Menstrual Discs?
What’s the difference between a Menstrual Cup and Menstrual Disc? Menstrual Cups have been available for many years now, however discs have only become popular recently. Menstrual cups and discs share both similarities and differences. Similarities between a menstrual disc and a cup Both products are reusable, are worn internally, and collect (rather than absorb)
5 Menstrual Cup Removal Tips
How to Remove a Menstrual Cup: 5 Easy Tips Removing your menstrual cup is easy! Follow these tips to get a menstrual cup out in seconds. For some women, removing the cup is a quick and easy process, while others get overwhelmed and feel like it might be stuck. The good news is that most