How to use a menstrual cup

A menstrual cup is a flexible, bell-shaped device that is placed in the vagina to collect menstrual blood during your period. It is similar in concept to a diaphragm or cervical cup and can be used in place of a tampon or sanitary pad.

Menstrual cups are usually made of silicone or latex. Most are reusable, but disposable menstrual cups are also available. People may prefer menstrual cups because they are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than other options, can stay in place for several hours, and generally leak less than tampons or pads.

Menstrual cups come in different materials, shapes and sizes. They can also vary in terms of flexibility and firmness. Some cups have a stem at the bottom to make removing the cup easier. Depending on the product, you may be able to cut the stem shorter before use for greater comfort.

Menstrual cups are generally available in two sizes: a smaller cup for people under 30 who have not been pregnant before or to suit and a larger cup for people over 30 years old or who have been pregnant or given birth. Some companies may offer additional sizes, such as smaller sizes for teens or novice users.

It is important to find a menstrual cup that fits you well. Cups that are too small can leak, while cups that are too large can cause discomfort. You may want to try a few brands to see which are easiest to insert and most comfortable to wear. Although menstrual cups do not require a prescription from a gynecologist or other healthcare provider, it may be helpful to discuss the size and fit of the menstrual cup.

Before using a menstrual cup for the first time, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You should also wash the cup and remove any residue or lint from the cup packaging. Most manufacturers recommend sterilizing a menstrual cup before use, which may involve placing the cup in boiling water for several minutes.

It’s normal to feel intimidated when using a menstrual cup for the first time. Practice is key; the more you use your cup, the more comfortable you will become. After the initial learning curve, inserting and removing the cup becomes easier.

Here are the basic steps for using your menstrual cup correctly:

• Make sure the cup is clean before using it.
• Get into a position where you can comfortably insert the cup into your vagina; many people find that squatting or sitting on a toilet can be helpful.
• Gently fold the cup to facilitate insertion. Common folds are a c-fold (fold the cup in half vertically) or a 7-fold (flatten the cup and pull down a corner), but each fold helps guide the cup inwards.
• Spread your labia open and slide the folded cup into your vagina. Point the cup towards the back of your vaginal canal and at a slight upward angle.
• Release your hand after the cup is in place. You may feel the sensation of the cup popping open.
• Once inside, check whether the upper part of your vagina fits properly. Run a finger along the cup to ensure it is fully open and adjust as necessary if you feel any folds or bumps.

You can keep your menstrual cup in for 4 to 12 hours, depending on your preference menstruationthe brand of the cup and manufacturer’s instructions.

You should remove your cup and clean it every 4-12 hours, or sooner if necessary. Before removing the cup, wash your hands with soap and water. You want to remove the cup slowly and carefully to avoid spilling the contents. Be sure to wash the cup between each use.

Here are the steps for removing a menstrual cup:

• Take a comfortable position as you normally would to insert the cup. Consider crouching or sitting over a toilet to make removal easier – and in case of spillage.
• Break the seal on the cup by gently squeezing the cup between your fingers or by pressing a finger against the edge of the cup.
• While squeezing the cup between your fingers, pull it down to remove it. For cups with a stem, you can grab the stem and pull it down. You can also hook a finger over the edge of the cup and pull down from there to remove it.
• If you’re having trouble, try your pelvic muscles to gently push the cup out.
• Pour the contents of the cup into the toilet and clean it before reinserting it.

After removing the cup and cleaning the contents, wash the cup with soap and water before using it again. You don’t need to sterilize it between uses during your period. Most manufacturers recommend sterilizing the cup once your period is over before using it again.

Sterilization usually involves boiling the cup in water for 5-10 minutes. Dry the cup thoroughly after boiling. Store the completely dry cup in a suitable container or a cloth bag made of breathable material. Make sure it is not airtight, as bacteria or mold are more likely to build up in a container that is not breathable.

Check your menstrual cups regularly for mold, scratches or cuts and replace the cups if necessary.

With a menstrual cup you can do almost anything, including all types of exercise. Although it is not recommended to have sex with certain brands of menstrual cups, some types are fine to use during sex. Contact your cup manufacturer for guidelines.

Research has shown that there is no increased risk of infection if people use menstrual cups correctly. Leakage is similar to other types of menstrual products, such as sanitary pads and tampons. Most people find cups comfortable and unobtrusive, provided you use the cups as directed.

You can reduce the risk of infection by properly cleaning the cup, storing it and cleaning it every 4-12 hours. You can minimize leakage and discomfort by ensuring proper cup placement and a good seal between the cup and your vaginal walls.

It is also important that your cup is the right size. It can be helpful to try different brands because cups can vary in shape and material.

Other troubleshooting tips to keep in mind:

• Menstrual cups can be challenging to manage in a public restroom. Consider bringing disposable cleaning wipes or a small water bottle to rinse the cup when you are away from home.
• Menstrual cups are made of different materials; if you have an acquaintance allergy with certain materials, such as latex or silicone, make sure you choose a menstrual cup brand that is not made from this material.
• When you are first getting used to your menstrual cup, it may be helpful to wear a light pad to catch any leaking blood.

Menstrual cups are devices used during your period to collect menstrual blood. They can be left in the vagina for up to 12 hours and offer a more convenient, affordable and environmentally friendly choice compared to other options such as sanitary pads or tampons.

Inserting and removing the menstrual cup can be a challenge at first, but most users learn quickly and find the cups to be an effective and comfortable menstrual product.