The feeling that a menstrual cup is making you need to urinate frequently is a common experience among users. This sensation, often described as bladder pressure or urinary urgency, is a recognized side effect of using an internal collection device. A menstrual cup is a flexible, bell-shaped device made from medical-grade silicone or rubber that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. This phenomenon is almost always the result of a simple mechanical issue rather than a medical complication. Understanding the internal landscape of the pelvis is the first step toward resolving the discomfort caused by the cup.
Understanding Pelvic Anatomy
The sensation of pressure is explained by the close spatial relationship of the organs within the pelvic cavity. The vagina, where the menstrual cup is positioned, is located centrally. Directly in front of the vagina sits the bladder, which stores urine. The front wall of the vagina is separated from the back of the bladder by very little space.
The urethra, the tube through which urine exits the body, is also situated near the anterior vaginal wall. When a firm object is placed inside the vaginal canal, it occupies space and exerts force on the surrounding structures. Because the bladder is highly sensitive to pressure, any compression from the cup can mimic the feeling of a full bladder, triggering the urge to empty it.
Why Menstrual Cup Placement Creates Pressure
The feeling of needing to pee is a direct consequence of the cup physically pressing on the bladder or the urethra. This is a mechanical compression issue. The cup’s properties, such as its firmness and diameter, play a significant role in how much pressure is transmitted to the surrounding tissues. A menstrual cup made with firm silicone will be less pliable and more likely to push against the delicate bladder wall.
Similarly, a cup with a diameter that is too wide for an individual’s anatomy will expand and place excessive force on the anterior vaginal wall. Incorrect placement is another frequent cause of pressure. If the cup is sitting too low in the vaginal canal, its rim can press directly against the urethra or the base of the bladder. The pressure can also partially restrict the urethra, leading to a slow or difficult urine stream, which contributes to the feeling of retained urine and urgency.
Actionable Steps for Adjusting Cup Fit
To alleviate bladder pressure, focus on adjusting the cup’s position, size, and firmness. The first adjustment is changing the angle of insertion. When inserting the cup, aim it toward the tailbone, following the natural tilt of the vaginal canal, rather than straight up. This angle helps the cup settle away from the sensitive bladder neck.
If the cup is sitting too low, gently push it higher into the vaginal canal. A cup that is too high can cause pressure on the bladder’s fundus, so experiment with different resting spots. Another effective technique is to break the suction seal and re-insert the cup at a slightly different orientation after it opens. Rotating the cup can shift the rim’s position, moving it off the specific spot causing the pressure.
If repositioning does not resolve the discomfort, consider that the cup’s physical properties may be the cause. Switching to a softer silicone cup reduces the internal pressure, as the material conforms more easily to the surrounding anatomy. A softer cup applies less outward force, mitigating the compression on the bladder. Also, check the cup’s diameter, as a slightly smaller cup may be necessary if the current one is too wide for the vaginal space.
Some individuals find relief by switching to a menstrual disc, which is positioned higher up near the cervix and functions differently than a cup, often avoiding the bladder entirely. If the cup includes a stem that protrudes or causes irritation, you can trim it, ensuring it does not rub against the sensitive external tissues. Finding the right combination of cup size, firmness, and placement may take a few cycles, but these adjustments are typically successful in eliminating the urinary pressure sensation.