Periods 101
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How to remove a menstrual cup
Menstrual cups (AKA period cups) have become increasingly popular in recent years as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional pads & tampons. If you’ve ever wondered how to remove a menstrual cup, you’ve landed in the right spot. With the right technique, removing a period cup is a simple & hygienic process.
In this blog, we’ll explain step-by-step instructions on how to safely & easily remove a menstrual cup, as well as some top tips for making the switch to reusable period care with no strings attached...
How to remove a menstrual cup
Step 1: Wash your hands & relax
Before removing your menstrual cup, make sure you wash your hands with soap and water. This helps to prevent any unwanted bacteria from getting inside your body. Now take a moment to relax, if you're tense your muscles will be clenched, making it harder for the cup to come out.
Step 2: Find a comfortable position
There are a few different positions you can try when removing your menstrual cup. The most important thing is that you find a position that feels comfortable for you. Some people like to squat, while others prefer to sit on the toilet with their legs slightly apart. Experiment until you find a position that works for you.
Step 3: Grip the base of the cup
Once you're in a comfortable position, it's time to grip the base of the cup. First, squeeze the bottom of the cup to release the suction effect through the three tiny holes at the top. The second is to put your finger into your vagina and feel the suction right at the top of the cup.
The cup will be easy to remove once the suction between it and the vaginal walls is released. You should gently hold the base of the cup (not just the stem/Pebble pull, this is there as a guide) and remove it from your vagina, keeping it horizontal to avoid spills.
Step 4: Wash and dry the cup
When you remove the menstrual cup, empty the contents into the toilet. Then give the cup a good clean. You can use a gentle soap if you want, but it's not necessary. Once the cup is clean, dry it with a clean towel or let it air dry. Read our blog all about how to clean your menstrual cup.
And that's it! You've successfully removed your menstrual cup. Now you can pop it back in and get on with your day.
If your menstrual cup gets stuck, what should you do?
It’s quite normal to feel like your menstrual cup is stuck, especially if it’s your first time using it. To begin with, you need to get rid of the idea that your menstrual cup is lost inside your vagina because that simply cannot happen. You can always get your menstrual cup out, even if you have to try many different ways.
If you have trouble holding the stem of the cup, try changing your position, such as squatting, lying down, or lifting one leg on a chair.
Is removing a menstrual cup painful?
It is possible that you will experience some pain or discomfort if you attempt to remove the menstrual cup without pinching its base. The reason for this is that the suction seal you created when you inserted the cup will still hold on to it when you remove it. To avoid a painful removal process, remember to pinch the period cup to release the suction and then pull it down.
If you’re still struggling to find the base, you can pop your finger up next to the cup and gently push it towards the wall of your vagina. Then you can move your finger over the rim and slowly slide it down. This might be a messier method, but it’ll help reduce the pain and discomfort.
As long as you've inserted the cup correctly, you should feel no discomfort. If you're experiencing any, read our blog about why your cup might hurt.
Tips for removing a menstrual cup without making a bloody mess
When you're removing your menstrual cup, you may be worried about making a mess. We've gathered some tips from our community on how to make menstrual cup removal easy, clean and comfortable...
1. Practise when you're not on your period
Swapping to reusable period care is a big change, so we always advise our customers to practising inserting & removing their period cup when they're not on their period so they get used to the technique and find a way that best suits them.
2. Remove the period cup in the shower
There are many different ways and positions you could be in when removing a menstrual cup, so you have to find the method that works for you. The good thing about removing a menstrual cup in the shower is that if you do make a mess, you don’t have to worry, and you can clean it up quickly. However, don’t let that stop you from leaving the house when on your period! You can still remove your period cup in public toilets without making a mess. It just takes practise.
3. Empty your period cup regularly
The period cup can be worn comfortably for up to 12 hours. However, if you are in the learning phase with your menstrual cup, it may be a good idea to empty your cup every 4-6 hours. This will allow you to practise removing it, and the risk of spillage and causing a bloody mess is reduced because the cup won't be too full.
4. Take your time when removing a menstrual cup
Always give yourself enough time to remove your menstrual cup. Sometimes removing the cup too fast or firmly can cause pain and discomfort, which you want to avoid. So, take your time and be gentle with your vagina.
5. Don’t be surprised if you see blood on your fingers
Unlike period pads & tampons, where the blood from the menstrual flow is absorbed, period cups collect the blood, so there’s a strong chance you might get some blood on your fingers when inserting or removing a menstrual cup. It may initially feel strange to use a cup if you are extremely uncomfortable about your menstrual flow. With practise, you'll find the right technique for your body, and you'll become more comfortable using your cup.
Finally, our best advice is to experiment to find what works for you, your menstrual cup, and the unique configuration of your vagina. Most people try one way to remove their cup, and then if that doesn’t work, there’s always another way. We hope these tips make your life a little easier and your period cup removal a little less messy. If you have any more questions on removing a menstrual cup, please get in touch with us at customercare@wearemooncup.com
