A menstrual cup is an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to tampons and pads. Instead of absorbing blood, it collects it, offering up to 12 hours of protection without leaks. However, if the cup isn’t inserted correctly, it may cause discomfort or leak. In this blog, you’ll learn how to use a menstrual cup the right way.

What is a menstrual cup?

A menstrual cup is a small, flexible, reusable alternative to tampons or pads. It collects menstrual blood rather than absorbing it. The cup, typically made from medical-grade silicone or rubber, is inserted into the vagina. Its shape allows it to collect blood without leaking.

Different sizes are available, depending on age and menstrual flow. You can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours, making it an eco-friendly, cheaper, and more comfortable option compared to disposable products.

Why Use a Menstrual Cup?

- Eco-friendly: Since the cup is reusable, you produce less waste. One cup can last for years.

- Cost-effective: Instead of buying disposable products every month, you purchase one cup that lasts, saving money in the long term.

- Long-lasting protection: You can wear the cup for up to 12 hours, making it ideal for day and night use.

- Comfort during activities: The cup works well during sports, swimming, and other physical activities.

- Healthier: A menstrual cup causes less dryness and reduces the risk of odors because the blood isn’t exposed to air.

How to Insert a Menstrual Cup in 4 Steps

Inserting a menstrual cup can feel unusual at first, especially if it’s your first time. With some practice, it becomes much easier. Follow these steps to insert the menstrual cup correctly.

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Always wash your hands before handling the cup to prevent bacteria and infections.

Step 2: Choose the Right Folding Technique

Here are two popular folding methods you can try:

- C-fold: Fold the cup in half, so the rim forms a “C” shape. This is one of the most common folds and works well for beginners.

- Punch-down fold: Push one side of the rim down with your finger, making the opening smaller. This fold creates a narrower tip, which can help with insertion.

Step 3: Find a Comfortable Position

Before inserting the cup, find a position where you feel comfortable. You can try sitting on the toilet, squatting, or placing one leg on the edge of the bathtub or toilet. Experiment with different positions to see what works best for you.

Step 4: Insert the Menstrual Cup

Once your hands are clean, the cup is folded, and you’ve found a comfortable position, it’s time to insert the menstrual cup:

- Hold the folded cup between your fingers, with the rim facing up.

- Gently spread your labia with your other hand and place the cup at the vaginal opening.

- Angle the cup slightly towards your tail bone (not straight up) and slowly push it inside. Unlike a tampon, the cup doesn’t need to be inserted very deep; it will sit lower in the vaginal canal.

- Once the cup is fully inserted, release it so it can open. You may hear a slight “pop” or suction sound, indicating that the cup has unfolded. 

5 Tips for Beginners

1. Practice beforehand: Try inserting and removing the cup a few times before your period starts to get used to it.
2. Use water or lubricant: This can make it easier to insert the cup.
3. Relax: Make sure your muscles are relaxed for easier insertion and removal.
4. Use a panty liner: For the first few times, you may want to wear a panty liner or menstrual underwear as extra protection.
5. Know where your cervix is: This helps you position the cup correctly to avoid leaks.

How to Know If the Menstrual Cup Is Positioned Correctly?

Check if the cup is fully open

After inserting the cup, check to make sure it has fully opened. Gently feel around the base of the cup with your finger. If you feel folds or dents, the cup hasn’t opened properly. Try gently twisting the cup or pressing the base until it opens completely to prevent leaks.

Test the seal

If you gently tug on the stem and feel resistance, the cup is in place and won’t leak. If it slides down easily, you’ll need to adjust it.

Ensure it’s comfortable

A properly inserted cup should feel comfortable, and you shouldn’t feel it at all. If it’s uncomfortable, try placing it a little higher.

Look for signs of leaks

If the cup is inserted correctly, it shouldn’t leak. If you notice any leaking, check that the cup is fully opened and positioned below your cervix.

Twist the cup after insertion

To make sure the cup is securely in place, gently twist it after inserting. This ensures the cup is fully open and properly sealed, preventing leaks. With a bit of practice, using a menstrual cup becomes second nature, giving you up to 12 hours of worry-free protection.

How to Remove the Menstrual Cup

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before removing the cup to avoid infections.

Step 2: Relax

Find a comfortable position (sitting, squatting, or standing with one leg raised) and try to relax your pelvic floor muscles. This will make removing the cup easier.

Step 3: Break the Seal

Gently pinch the base of the cup to break the seal. Avoid pulling the stem, as this could cause discomfort.

Step 4: Remove the Cup

Slowly wiggle the cup back and forth while gently pulling it out. Keep the cup upright to avoid spilling. Once removed, empty the contents into the toilet and clean the cup before reuse or storage.

How to Clean the Menstrual Cup

It’s important to keep your menstrual cup clean for hygiene and comfort. During your period, you can wash the cup with water and mild, unscented soap after emptying it. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly before reinserting. At the beginning and end of your period, you should sterilize the cup. Download our Menstrual Cup E-book to learn more about proper sterilization techniques.

Tip: Don’t forget to clean the small air holes at the top of the cup, as they help the cup stay in place and prevent leaks.

4 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 

1. If your cup is leaking, it might not be fully open or properly positioned. After inserting, gently twist the cup to ensure it has opened. You may need to try different folds or positions.

2. If it's difficult to insert the cup, relax your muscles and use water or lubricant to make insertion easier. 

3.  

   To remove the cup, always pinch the base to break the seal and avoid discomfort. Pulling on the stem can be uncomfortable and make removal harder.

4. If the cup feels uncomfortable, it may be inserted too high. Try positioning it lower for better comfort.

A menstrual cup is a reusable and cost-effective alternative to tampons and pads. It offers many benefits: it reduces waste, is cheaper in the long run, and can be worn for up to 12 hours. With a little practice, using the cup becomes easy, and you’ll feel more comfortable during your period.

If you’re struggling with inserting a cup, you might want to try the Bamboozy 3rd Generation Cup. Designed based on feedback from hundreds of women, it’s one of the most advanced menstrual cups in the world.