How to Use a Menstrual Cup

How to Insert and Remove Your Cup

1. Before Handling

To maintain proper hygiene, always wash your hands before inserting or removing your cup.
Also, make sure your Cup&Co menstrual cup is clean and sterilized before the first use at the start of each menstrual cycle.

 

2. Fold the Cup

To make insertion easier, you’ll need to fold the menstrual cup.
There are several ways to do this:

  • C-Fold: Press the sides of the cup together and fold it in half to form a "C" shape.
  • Punch-Down Fold: Push one side of the rim down into the cup to create a small, narrow point—this makes insertion easier.

Keep the cup folded firmly while inserting.
You can also use an applicator with your menstrual cup to help insert the cup if needed.

 

3. Inserting the Cup

Find a comfortable position to make insertion easier:

  • Squatting in the shower
  • Standing with one leg raised
  • Sitting on the toilet with your knees slightly elevated

Insert the folded cup into the vaginal opening.
The stem should remain slightly visible.

If the cup is properly positioned, you shouldn’t feel it.

 

4. Rotating the Cup

Once inserted, rotate the cup by twisting the stem back and forth.
This helps the cup fully open and create a seal.

If the cup doesn’t rotate easily, press against your vaginal walls to encourage it to pop open.
If the cup doesn’t fully open, you may experience leaks.

 

5. Removing the Cup

After 8 to 12 hours maximum, it’s time to remove your menstrual cup.
To remove the cup:

  1. First, wash your hands to eliminate bacteria.
  2. Pinch the base of the cup to break the suction seal.
  3. Pull it out while keeping it upright.

⚠️ Warning:
If you don’t break the suction properly, removal can be painful.

 

6. Emptying and Rinsing Your Cup

Once removed, empty the contents and rinse the cup with water to remove all menstrual blood.
We recommend washing your cup before and after each use for optimal hygiene.
You can find more tips in our Menstrual Cup Cleaning Guide.

 

Tips for Using Your Menstrual Cup

  • If you're used to using applicators with tampons,
    or if you're feeling unsure about inserting a menstrual cup,
    we recommend using your cup with an applicator. It makes insertion much easier, especially for beginners.
  • For your first few cycles with a menstrual cup, it’s a good idea to wear a backup protection(like a pad or period underwear) just in case the cup isn’t positioned perfectly
  • If you’re having trouble inserting your cup or find it painful, you can also use a water-based lubricantto make the process smoother and more comfortable. If using a cup continues to feel uncomfortable, you might want to try a reusable menstrual disc instead. Many users find discs to be softer and more comfortable

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Using a Menstrual Cup

Is it easy to remove a menstrual cup?

Yes!
The menstrual cup sits right at the entrance of your vagina, making it very easy to reach.
Simply pinch the base of the cup to break the suction seal, and you’ll be able to remove it easily.

 

What if my menstrual cup feels stuck?

If your cup moves up and feels stuck, don’t panic!
Relaxing your muscles is key.
Take a short walk and do some deep breathing exercises to help you relax.

  1. Once you feel calm, bear down with your pelvic muscles (like you're trying to pee).
  2. This will bring the cup lower.
  3. Then, pinch the base to release the suction and pull it out.

 

How long can I wear my menstrual cup?

You can wear your menstrual cup for up to 8–12 hours.
Wearing it longer could increase the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

Your cup will stay securely in place, whether you're working out (swimming, yoga, fitness) or lying down.
You can safely wear it all day and all night without worrying about leaks while you sleep.

 

Does the menstrual cup work for everyone?

Menstrual cups come in different sizes and fit most women.
However, after giving birth, your body may change, and cups might no longer fit as well.
You may experience more leaks or discomfort.
In that case, we recommend switching to a menstrual disc, which is often a better fit for postpartum bodies.

 

Should the stem of the menstrual cup stick out?

No.
Once your cup is correctly positioned and comfortable, the stem should not stick out of your vaginal opening.
If it does, it might cause discomfort or irritation.
You can trim the stem with scissors if needed.

 

How do I know if my menstrual cup is inserted correctly?

If your cup is well-positioned, you shouldn’t feel it at all.
You can insert a finger to check that the cup is fully opened and sealed against your vaginal walls.

If not, rotate the cup to help it fully unfold.
Once properly positioned, it should collect your menstrual flow without any issues.

 

Can I pee while wearing a menstrual cup?

Yes!
Your vagina (where the cup sits) and your urethra (where urine exits) are two different openings.
Wearing a cup won’t stop you from peeing.

However, if your cup is too firm, it might press on your bladder slightly, causing discomfort or making it harder to pee.
If that happens, try a softer cup or consider switching to a menstrual disc.

 

How do I know if my menstrual cup is full?

There’s no exact way to know when your cup is full.
You’ll learn over time based on your flow and how many hours it usually takes to fill the cup.

After a few cycles, you’ll get a better sense of when to empty it based on your personal experience.