Periods 101
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How to insert a menstrual cup
Are you thinking about making the switch to a menstrual cup? If so, you're probably wondering how to insert a menstrual cup. Don't worry; it's not as complicated or intimidating as it sounds.
Our super soft, 100% plastic-free period cup is made from medical-grade silicone with a silky smooth finish for extra comfort. It’s designed specially to be inserted into your vagina, and once it is in, the period cup forms a seal with your vaginal walls, allowing you to leave it in place for up to 12 hours.
Although inserting a menstrual cup can seem a bit mysterious at first, there are, in fact, a few different methods for inserting the cup and finding the one that works best for you may take a little practise. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the process step-by-step.
How to insert a menstrual cup
If you've only got 30 seconds, here's a quick video!
Step 1: Wash your hands and the cup
Before inserting a menstrual cup, it's important to wash your hands with soap and water to prevent any unwanted bacteria from entering your body. We always recommend sanitising your period cup before first use and after every period. Here's a blog all about cleaning your period cup properly.
Step 2: Get into position
Find a comfortable position so you can easily insert your period cup. You can try sitting on the toilet, squatting, resting one leg on the toilet set or simply just standing. You need to feel super comfortable to relax your pelvic floor muscles.
Step 3: Fold the period cup
There are two types of folds that we recommend here at &SISTERS: the U/C shape and the punch down fold. Watch our video to see all the period cup folds.
U/C Shape
In order to create a 'U' shape, you should start by pressing and holding the sides of your cup opening together - then folding it in half to create a 'U' shape with your cup opening. Once this has been done, gently insert the period cup into the vagina, pushing the tip about one centimetre into the vagina.
Punch down
If you have slightly tighter vaginal walls, go with the punch down fold, as it opens more easily when inside the vaginal cavity. With your index finger, push down on one side of the cup until the wall of the cup touches the base of the cup and then insert the cup into the vaginal canal.
Having trouble inserting your period cup? Try moistening your cup with room-temperature water, or apply some organic lubricant.
Step 4: Let it pop
Let your menstrual cup "pop" open inside your vagina once it no longer fits in your folded position to create a seal or suction. Then continue to push up from the base of the menstrual cup. You’ll need to push the menstrual cup high enough so that the stem is not sticking out of your vagina.
Step 5: Do your checks
The easiest way to determine if your menstrual cup has opened completely is to place a finger along the inside of your vagina, up to where the rim of the menstrual cup meets your vagina. Follow the rim around, making sure the whole rim is open.
The best way to ensure that your menstrual cup is correctly in place and opened is to grasp the stem and gently pull on it. Ideally, you'd like to feel some resistance or pressure from the suction.
How long can you wear your menstrual cup?
As soon as you are certain that your menstrual cup is set properly, you can go ahead and wear it for up to 12 hours without the need to change it. If you are at all worried about leaks, you may want to wear a small pants liner or bring an extra pad just in case you experience any issues when you are out and about.
Menstrual cups can take some getting used to, so if, at first, you do not succeed, then do not give up; keep trying and try again until you get used to them. The process may take a couple of attempts, but it is well worth it in the end.
Top tips for inserting a menstrual cup
1. Become familiar with your body
Many of us are not aware of the appearance and shape of our own vaginal area. This can be a problem when deciding where to insert your menstrual cup. If you've never examined your own vulva, you might find it helpful to use a mirror. Try to look for the opening of your vagina. This is the place where you’ll be inserting the menstrual cup.
2. You’re might need some lube
If you find that you are feeling a little discomfort and pain when trying to insert a menstrual cup, then you may need to try using some lube. You can use water or a water-based lubricant along the rim of the cup to help.
3. Avoid a leaky period cup
There might be a possibility that you’ll experience leakage when using a menstrual cup. Although this shouldn’t happen, there are a number of ways to prevent leaks from happening again. The first thing you should do is determine what size cup you should be wearing based on your age and stage in life. Secondly, make sure the period up is inserted correctly and that it is fully open inside your vagina. Last but not least, make sure that the little holes around the rim of the menstrual cup are clean and free from any traces of blood.
4. Practise makes perfect
The best time to experiment and practise inserting your menstrual cup is when you are not menstruating. You can use mild soap and water or just plain water to remove any natural body fluids that could potentially make it harder for you to insert the cup. Inserting a menstrual cup when your body is dry will also help you estimate how much lubrication your body provides naturally.
If you're always on the lookout for ways to make your life easier, then menstrual cups are your saviours. And what could be easier than never having to worry about buying tampons or pads again? Menstrual cups are a great alternative to disposable period care, and we hope you’ve learnt how easy it is to insert a menstrual cup.
