How to use a menstrual cup in 6 easy steps
Learn how to fold it, insert it, remove it and clean it properly. The concept is the same no matter what menstrual cup brand you are using.
1 Wash your hands
First, wash your hands with a mild, un-perfumed soap and water like you would do before inserting a tampon without applicator. When using the cup for the first time, you can lubricate it with water or a water-based lubricant to aid insertion.
2Flatten your cup
Flatten your menstrual cup as illustrated between your thumb and your other fingers to prepare for the fold (step 3).
3Fold your cup
Once your menstrual cup is flattened, fold it in half with your other hand so that the rim makes a “C”. Hold the cup firmly with the hand you are the most comfortable with. The folded part should face toward the inside of your hand as illustrated. There are several ways to fold your cup. Hold the cup firmly in its folded position and prepare for step 4.
4 Prepare to insert
Spreading your legs, gently separate your labia with your free hand. Guide your folded cup rim first with the rounded end of the “U” shape facing you toward your vagina as illustrated. You can insert the cup while sitting, standing or squatting; spreading your legs will facilitate insertion.
5 Insert the cup
Once you inserted the rim of the menstrual cup, the cup will start unfolding itself inside the vagina. Rotate it sideways to will help spring open to create an airtight seal that stops leaks. All you need to do is to push it slightly with your finger until the whole cup is inside including the stem. It shouldn’t sit too high, the bottom of your cup should be about half a finger away from the entry. Unlike a tampon, the cup is positioned in the lower part of vagina, but beyond the pelvic bone.
6 Rotate your cup
Lightly pinch the base of the cup (not the stem) and gently try to give it one full rotation in either direction. Doing so helps to avoid leaks by ensuring that the cup has opened fully. The cup should rotate easily when properly open. As an extra measure, though one that is usually unnecessary, you can check that it is fully opened by sliding a finger up next to the cup and feeling all the way around it.
See the different ways to fold your cup
See the C, Punch down and 7 fold
Because a video speaks a thousand words. C fold and the Punch down fold are the most commonly used way to fold your cup before inserting it. It’s up to you to experiment what works best for you.
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