The menstrual cup is a reusable feminine hygiene product designed to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. Achieving a comfortable and leak-free experience relies heavily on proper insertion, which includes placing the cup at the correct depth within the vaginal canal. Unlike tampons, the correct depth for a cup is highly individualized and depends on the user’s unique anatomy. Understanding this personal factor is the first step toward mastering the use of the cup.
Understanding Cervical Height and Cup Fit
The position of the cervix—the lower, narrow part of the uterus—acts as the ceiling for the menstrual cup and dictates how far the cup needs to be inserted. The cervix moves throughout the menstrual cycle, sometimes sitting lower during menstruation, which directly impacts the available space. Identifying this position is paramount for selecting a cup that fits correctly and for ensuring it is not inserted past the cervix.
A clean finger can be used to determine the height of the cervix by inserting it until the tip touches a firm, doughnut-shaped structure at the top of the vaginal canal. This measurement can be approximated using the “knuckle method.” Knowing this measurement helps the user select an appropriately sized cup, as a lower cervix requires a shorter cup to prevent the stem from protruding and causing discomfort. The cup must sit below the cervix to collect fluid, but high enough that the base is entirely inside the vaginal opening.
Step-by-Step Insertion Technique
Before attempting insertion, relax the pelvic floor muscles, as tension can make the process difficult and uncomfortable. Using a water-based lubricant on the rim of the cup can also facilitate smoother entry, especially for new users. The cup must first be folded using a method like the C-fold or the punch-down fold to reduce its diameter for easier insertion.
The proper angle for insertion is directed toward the tailbone, following the natural curve of the vaginal canal. Once folded, the cup is gently pushed into the vagina, maintaining the fold until the rim is fully inside. The goal is to insert the cup until the base is positioned just inside the vaginal opening, where the vaginal muscles naturally hold it in place.
The stem of the cup serves as a guide for finding the cup, not for removal itself. If the cup is inserted correctly, the stem should be fully contained within the body or only the very tip should be accessible at the entrance. Inserting the cup too far up the canal might position it incorrectly relative to the cervix, potentially leading to leaks or making removal challenging. The appropriate depth ensures the cup remains accessible and correctly aligned to catch the flow.
Checking for Proper Placement and Seal
After the cup is inserted to the correct depth, confirm that it has fully opened and created a secure suction seal. The folded cup should pop open inside the vagina, which can be encouraged by rotating the cup slightly or gently pushing on the vaginal wall. The user can run a clean finger around the circumference of the cup’s base to check for any persistent dents or folds.
A fully open cup will feel firm and round, confirming it is ready to collect fluid. The suction seal is verified by gently tugging on the stem; if resistance is felt, a vacuum seal has formed between the cup and the vaginal wall. This seal prevents leakage and keeps the cup securely in place. If the placement is correct, the cup should be unnoticeable during daily activities, providing a comfortable fit.
Adjusting Stem Length and Troubleshooting Depth Issues
Sometimes, even with correct insertion depth, the small stem at the bottom of the cup can cause irritation if it protrudes or rubs against the sensitive vulvar tissue. If the cup is inserted as high as possible without causing discomfort, and the stem is still bothersome, it is safe to trim the stem with clean scissors. Trim only small sections at a time to ensure enough remains for easy location during removal.
If the cup rides too high in the vaginal canal, it may become difficult to reach the stem or the base for removal. In this case, bear down using the pelvic floor muscles, similar to having a bowel movement, which can gently lower the cup into an accessible position. Never pull directly on the stem without first breaking the suction seal by pinching the base of the cup.
Persistent leakage, even after confirming the suction seal, often indicates that the cup is not aligned directly beneath the cervix. If the cup is inserted too high or too low relative to the cervix opening, the menstrual fluid may bypass the cup entirely. Slight adjustments in insertion depth may be needed to ensure the cup is perfectly positioned to capture the flow immediately beneath the cervix.