A menstrual cup is a small, flexible device, typically made from medical-grade silicone or rubber, that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it. The goal of using this product is complete comfort, meaning that once a cup is correctly positioned, you should not feel it at all during normal daily activities like walking, sitting, or exercising. Although many first-time users experience some initial awareness or discomfort, this sensation is almost always a sign of a placement issue or an incorrect fit. With minor adjustments and practice, the cup can quickly become undetectable.
The Goal of Proper Placement
A correctly inserted cup sits low in the vaginal canal, resting just below the cervix. The cup should form a gentle seal against the walls of this canal to prevent leaks. The internal walls higher up are far less sensitive to pressure than the tissues near the vaginal opening.
Unlike a tampon, which is often pushed high into the wider space near the cervix, the cup should be positioned lower to maximize comfort. When the cup is properly sealed and placed, it is held in position by the vaginal muscles and the seal itself. This positioning ensures that the cup does not press on the highly sensitive cervix or the delicate tissue near the entrance.
Common Causes of Cup Awareness
Stem Irritation
One of the most frequent reasons for feeling the cup is that the stem is too long or is protruding from the vaginal opening. The stem is designed primarily for retrieval, not for wear, and if it sticks out, it can cause irritation or a poking sensation against the vulva. Another common issue is the cup sitting too low, often just inside the vaginal entrance, which is much more sensitive to foreign objects than the upper canal.
Internal Pressure and Cramping
Feeling a dull ache, sharp cramping, or persistent pressure is often a sign that the cup is pressing against the cervix. The cup should sit below the cervix. If it moves too high, the suction pressure can irritate this area, leading to discomfort that may feel like menstrual cramps. A similar sensation can occur if the cup has not fully unfolded, leaving a crease that causes uneven pressure on the vaginal wall.
Painful Removal
Pain during removal is usually a direct result of not breaking the suction seal before pulling the cup out. The vacuum created against the vaginal walls can be painful if you simply tug on the stem. This improper removal technique can cause discomfort.
Practical Steps for Achieving Comfort
Insertion Technique
To ensure the cup is placed correctly, always aim it toward the tailbone, following the natural curve of the vaginal canal, rather than straight up. Using a water-based lubricant on the rim of the cup can also significantly ease the insertion process, especially for new users. Once inserted, the cup must fully unfold to create a proper seal and eliminate painful pressure points.
Ensuring the Seal
You can check if the cup has opened by running a clean finger around the rim to feel for any creases or indentations. Gently twisting the cup or pushing up on the base can help it fully pop open, often signaled by a subtle sound. Experimenting with different folding techniques, such as the Punch-Down fold, which creates a smaller insertion point, can also facilitate easier, higher placement compared to the C-fold.
Adjusting the Stem
If you consistently feel the stem, it can be carefully trimmed using clean scissors, but only after you have confirmed the correct height placement. The cup should be positioned so that only the base is reachable, or the stem is just inside the opening, preventing external irritation. Remember that proper technique often takes a few menstrual cycles to master, so patience is beneficial.
How to Tell If You Need a Different Cup
If you have mastered the proper insertion technique and are still experiencing persistent discomfort, the issue is likely related to the cup’s size or firmness.
Firmness and Width
Persistent pressure or cramping that worsens when the cup is full may indicate the cup is too firm or too wide for your internal anatomy. Cups made with firmer silicone exert more outward force against the vaginal walls, which can be felt by some users, necessitating a switch to a softer cup.
Length and Capacity
A cup that is the wrong length for your cervix height can also cause problems. For example, a cup that is too long for a low cervix will protrude or cause internal pressure, even with the stem trimmed. Conversely, if you experience leakage despite a verified seal, the cup might be too small in diameter, or its capacity may be insufficient for your flow volume, causing it to overflow prematurely.