The idea of a menstrual cup becoming “stuck” inside the body can be a source of anxiety for many users. While it might sometimes feel high or challenging to reach, a menstrual cup cannot truly get lost within the vaginal canal. Understanding the reasons behind this feeling and learning proper removal techniques can alleviate concerns. This article explores why a cup might feel difficult to remove and offers practical solutions for confident use.
Why Your Menstrual Cup Might Feel Stuck
The vaginal canal is a closed muscular tube ending at the cervix, which acts as a barrier to the uterus. Therefore, a menstrual cup cannot pass beyond the cervix or enter the main body cavity.
The primary reason a cup might feel difficult to remove stems from the suction seal it creates against the vaginal walls. This seal is crucial for preventing leaks, but it must be broken before the cup can be safely extracted. Attempting to pull the cup without releasing this seal can make removal feel challenging and even uncomfortable.
The position of the cervix can also influence how high a cup sits. It naturally shifts throughout the menstrual cycle, and during menstruation, it might be higher, causing the cup to ride up further. Additionally, the pelvic floor muscles can inadvertently hold the cup in place, especially if they are tense.
Anxiety and tension can exacerbate the feeling of a cup being stuck. When stressed, the pelvic floor muscles tend to tighten reflexively, making it harder to reach and manipulate the cup. Relaxing these muscles is an important step in making removal easier.
Techniques for Removing a High Cup
If a menstrual cup feels high or difficult to reach, the first step is to relax. Tensing up causes the pelvic floor muscles to tighten around the cup, making it harder to grasp. Taking a few deep breaths and allowing the muscles to relax can significantly aid the process.
Finding a comfortable position can also make the cup more accessible. Squatting, sitting on the toilet, or standing with one leg raised on the toilet rim can shorten the vaginal canal, bringing the cup lower and within easier reach.
Gently bearing down, similar to how one might during a bowel movement, can help move the cup lower in the vaginal canal. This action uses the abdominal muscles to push the cup downwards, making it easier to grasp. However, this should be done gently and in conjunction with other techniques.
The most important step is to break the suction seal before attempting to pull the cup out. This can be achieved by inserting a finger alongside the cup and pressing inward on the rim to allow air to enter. Alternatively, one can gently pinch the base of the cup, which will also release the seal. Once the seal is broken, the cup will feel less resistant and can be gently wiggled down.
After the seal is broken, grasp the stem or the base of the cup. Gently pull it downwards while wiggling it from side to side to ease its passage. Patience is important; if frustration arises, taking a break and trying again after some time can be beneficial. In extremely rare instances where a cup cannot be removed after multiple attempts, or if pain occurs, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
Preventing Future Difficulties
Selecting a menstrual cup that properly fits one’s individual anatomy is a primary step in preventing future removal difficulties. Cups come in various sizes, shapes, and firmness levels, and an ill-fitting cup might ride too high or be challenging to reach. Researching and choosing a cup appropriate for one’s cervix height and flow can make a significant difference.
Regular practice with insertion and removal, especially during lighter flow days or even outside of menstruation, can build confidence and familiarity. This allows for experimentation with different positions and techniques without the added pressure of a heavy flow. Consistently ensuring the suction seal is fully broken before attempting removal is a habit that will reduce future challenges.
Understanding how one’s cervix position changes throughout the menstrual cycle can also be beneficial. Some individuals find their cervix sits lower during menstruation, while for others it remains high, influencing where the cup settles. Maintaining adequate lubrication, particularly if dryness is a factor, can also make removal smoother.