Menstrual cups are a reusable alternative to disposable menstrual products, designed to collect menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it. Made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, or plastic, the cup is folded and inserted into the vagina, where it forms a seal to prevent leaks. Learning the proper technique is key to a comfortable experience, and this guide provides a step-by-step approach from preparation through cleaning and maintenance.
Preparation and Folding Techniques
The cup should be sterilized before its first use by boiling it in water for five to ten minutes to eliminate residues or bacteria. Before every insertion, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Rinsing the cup with water immediately before folding helps lubricate the silicone, making the insertion process smoother.
The success of insertion depends on the folding technique, with the two most common being the C-fold and the Punch-Down fold. The C-fold is performed by flattening the cup and folding it in half, creating a wide insertion point. This fold allows the cup to open easily once inside, though the wider rim can be intimidating for new users.
The Punch-Down fold is often recommended for beginners because it creates a smaller, more pointed insertion tip. Achieve this by pushing one point on the rim down toward the base, then squeezing the sides together to hold the fold. While easier to insert, it may require extra effort or rotation to ensure the cup fully opens once positioned inside.
Inserting the Cup
Finding a relaxed position is important for successful insertion, such as sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised on a stable surface. Relaxing the pelvic floor muscles helps prevent tightening, which makes insertion difficult.
Gently hold the chosen fold firmly and guide the cup’s tip into the vaginal opening. Insert the cup horizontally and angle it back towards the tailbone, following the natural curve, rather than straight up like a tampon. This angled approach ensures the cup is correctly positioned below the cervix.
Push the cup in until the stem is just inside the opening or until the cup sits comfortably below the cervix. Once inside, release the fold so the cup can spring open and create a seal against the vaginal walls. To confirm the cup has opened completely, gently run a finger around the rim to check for flat spots or folds.
If the cup has not opened fully, twisting the base or gently tugging on the stem can encourage it to pop into place. A properly sealed cup will resist a light tug on the stem, indicating the vacuum is formed. If you feel discomfort or a persistent fold, remove the cup and try the insertion process again.
Safe Removal and Emptying
Removal requires breaking the seal the cup has formed. Never attempt to remove the cup by pulling forcefully on the stem alone, as this will not break the vacuum seal and can cause discomfort and a potential mess.
To safely remove the cup, locate the stem and follow it up to the base. Insert a finger and pinch the base to gently collapse the silicone, which releases the vacuum seal. Once the seal is broken, slowly wiggle the cup downward and out of the vagina.
Keeping the cup upright during removal helps prevent the collected fluid from spilling. Empty the contents into the toilet, and then rinse the cup with cold water before reinserting it. Cold water helps prevent staining, as warm water can set bloodstains.
If you are in a public restroom without a private sink, empty the cup into the toilet and wipe it clean with toilet paper or a dedicated menstrual cup wipe before reinsertion. The cup can be thoroughly rinsed and washed at the next available opportunity. Remember to wash your hands again after handling the cup.
Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule
During your menstrual cycle, the cup should be cleaned each time it is emptied, up to every twelve hours. Daily cleaning involves rinsing the cup thoroughly with cold water, followed by washing it with a mild, unscented, oil-free soap and warm water. Ensure no soap residue remains, as this can cause vaginal irritation.
The tiny suction holes near the rim can sometimes become clogged, so ensure they are clear to maintain the seal. To clear blockage, fill the cup with water, place your palm over the top, and squeeze to force water through the holes. For a deep clean, a soft toothbrush can gently scrub the cup and the holes.
At the end of each menstrual cycle, the cup must be sterilized before storage. Sterilization is achieved by boiling the cup fully submerged in water for five to ten minutes. Following sterilization, allow the cup to air dry completely before placing it in a breathable storage pouch, which prevents moisture buildup.
If the cup develops cosmetic staining, soaking it in a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution or leaving it in direct sunlight can help lighten the discoloration. Staining does not indicate the cup is unsanitary if the regular boiling schedule is followed. Avoid storing the cup in airtight containers, as this can encourage mold or mildew growth.