A menstrual cup is a funnel-shaped sanitary aid, which can be made of rubber or silicone and needs to be inserted into the vagina to collect the menstrual cycle. Like all menstruation-related sanitary aids, however, not all women may feel comfortable with the menstrual cup and should try it first.

Menstrual cups can hold more blood than tampons and pads and are an environmentally friendly alternative. Depending on the flow, the menstrual cup can be worn for up to 12 hours at night and 6 hours during the day.

How to use a menstrual cup

The first thing to know is that menstrual cups – available online and in pharmacies – have different sizes. The first step is then to figure out your own, thanks to the indication of your trusted specialist.

When choosing your menstrual cup size, in fact, there are a number of factors to consider, such as:

  • Age;
  • Length of the cervix;
  • Type of flow;
  • Material and capacity of the cup;
  • Strength of the pelvic floor muscles;
  • If you had or didn’t have a vaginal delivery.

Smaller menstrual cups are generally recommended for women under 30 who have not delivered vaginally. 

Larger sizes suit women over 30 who have given birth naturally or have a particularly heavy flow.

How to insert a menstrual cup

Inserting a menstrual cup is no more difficult than inserting a tampon. Here are the general steps:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly;
  • If necessary, apply water or a water-based lubricant to the rim of the cup;
  • Firmly fold the menstrual cup in half, holding it in one hand with the rim facing up;
  • Insert the cup into the vagina like an internal tampon without an applicator. It should be put a few centimeters below the cervix.
  • Once the cup is in the vagina, it will open, creating an airtight seal that stops leakage.

If inserted correctly, you won’t be able to feel the menstrual cup. It will allow you to move, jump, sit, stand, and perform other daily activities without falling or moving.

When to remove the menstrual cup

You can wear a menstrual cup for 6-12 hours, depending on whether or not you have a heavy flow. 

This means that you can also use a cup overnight. The important thing is to remove it within 12 hours. 

How to remove a menstrual cup

To remove a menstrual cup:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly;
  • Place your index finger and thumb in the vagina. Gently pull the stem of the cup until your fingers reach the base;
  • Pinch the base to “pull” it away from the walls and pull downward to remove the cup;
  • Once out, empty the cup into the sink or toilet and wash it following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

The cup should be emptied at least twice a day. Reusable cups are durable and can be used from 6 months to 10 years if properly cared for.

What are the benefits of using menstrual cups?

A menstrual cup is:

  • Not expensive – the cup is much cheaper than tampons and pads;
  • Safe – because menstrual cups collect rather than absorb blood, a whole range of infections and diseases are avoided;
  • Capacious, as it retains more blood than tampons or pads;
  • Environmentally friendly – reusable menstrual cups can be used long.