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Everything you need to know about using a menstrual cup, step by step
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This article was co-authored by Andrea Rudominer, MD, MPH and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Dr. Andrea Rudominer is a board certified Pediatrician and board certified Integrative Medicine Doctor based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Dr. Rudominer has over 15 years of medical care experience and specializes in preventive health care, obesity, adolescent care, ADHD, and culturally competent care. Dr. Rudominer received her MD from the University of California, Davis, and completed a residency at the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford University. Dr. Rudominer also has an MPH in Maternal Child Health from the University of California, Berkeley. She is a Member of the American Board of Pediatrics, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a Member and Delegate of the California Medical Association, and a Member of the Santa Clara County Medical Association.
There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
This article has been viewed 3,259,464 times.
Ready to switch to an easy-to-use, eco-friendly menstrual product? A menstrual cup is a great choice! Not only are these cups more sustainable, but many people find that they’re more comfortable, too. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on inserting, cleaning, and reusing your menstrual cup.
Instructions for Inserting a Period Cup
- Wash your hands and the menstrual cup with mild soap.
- Squat or lift 1 leg up onto the toilet.
- Fold the cup in half with the rim facing up.
- Gently insert the cup into your vagina, angling it back toward your tailbone.
- Turn the menstrual cup 1 full rotation to ensure the seal is tight.
Steps
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![Step 1 Pick the right menstrual cup for your body.]()
Pick the right menstrual cup for your body. Menstrual cups are becoming more popular, so you can find them in most drug stores and big box stores. Some are a bit smaller or larger, so it's always good to read reviews before deciding on one. In general, you can choose the correct size by using a small menstrual cup if you’ve never given birth before and a large menstrual cup if you have given birth before.[1]- Popular menstrual cup brands include the Diva Cup, Soft Disc, and Lunette.
- Menstrual cups run $30-$40 USD, but keep in mind that you can use them over and over, so they eventually pay for themselves. However, you can get them cheaper, usually in the $7-$10 USD range on the low end, so look around if you just want to try one out.
- Menstrual cups are typically made of silicone or rubber. If you have latex allergies, make sure the cup you choose is made completely with silicone.[2]
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![Step 2 Read the instructions that come with your menstrual cup.]()
Read the instructions that come with your menstrual cup. Instructions can differ from cup to cup, so it's always a good idea to read what comes with your cup! That way, you know just what you should do with yours.[3]- If you have an intrauterine device to prevent pregnancy, don’t worry—you can still use a menstrual cup with an IUD.
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![Step 3 Wash your hands...]()
Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the cup. Wash your hands any time you're using products around your vaginal area to avoid introducing bacteria. Use warm water and soap, making sure you scrub for at least 20 seconds before rinsing.[4]- You can sing the "Happy Birthday" song slowly to yourself to estimate 20 seconds.
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![Step 4 Wash your cup with a mild soap before using it the first time.]()
Wash your cup with a mild soap before using it the first time. Most companies will ask you to wash it before you put it in. Pick a fragrance-free soap labeled for sensitive skin. Thoroughly rub the cup inside and out with the soap and warm water, and then rinse the soap off completely.[5]- If you’re worried about insertion, apply a little bit of water-based lube (or even just water) to the rim of the cup. This will help it slide inside easier.[6]
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![Step 5 Squat or raise 1 leg up on the toilet.]()
Squat or raise 1 leg up on the toilet. Some people prefer to squat, while others find balancing 1 leg up higher works well. You can even just sit on the toilet, spreading your legs apart.[7]- Set aside a little time to insert your cup the first time you do it. It may take some trial and error. You can even do it in a warm shower to help relax you.
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![Step 6 Fold the cup to make it easier to insert.]()
Fold the cup to make it easier to insert. Hold the cup in 1 hand with the stem facing down and the bowl facing upwards. There are several different folds to choose from, and you can try them all out to see what you prefer. Folds include:[8]- The c-fold: Squeeze the opening of the cup together, then fold the opening in half.
- The 7-fold: Fold the cup in half, then pull down the right side to make a “7” shape.
- Punch-down fold: Hold the cup between your thumb and middle finger, then press one edge down with your index finger, pushing it in toward the center of the cup.
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![Step 7 Relax your muscles as much as you can.]()
Relax your muscles as much as you can. Take a few deep breaths. If you're nervous, you'll tense up, and that will make it harder to insert. Try tensing your vaginal muscles for a moment and then releasing them.[9] -
![Step 8 Insert the cup into your vagina, angling it toward your tailbone.]()
Insert the cup into your vagina, angling it toward your tailbone. With your other hand, spread your labia (lips) apart. Gently press the folded cup into your vaginal opening, angling the cup toward your tailbone. Release the fold and let the cup move into place.[10]- Typically, the cup won't go as high as a tampon, though you can push it higher if you'd like. Some cups are made to go higher, so always read the directions for yours.
- If it doesn't feel right, try inserting it again to see if it feels more comfortable.[11]
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![Step 9 Twist the cup to make sure it seals.]()
Twist the cup to make sure it seals. Grab the base of the cup by the sides (not the stem) and turn it at least 1 full rotation. This will help ensure that the sides pop out completely to create the seal.[12]- You may hear or feel a "pop," which is a sign that the cup has opened. If you're not sure, reach up and feel around the base of the cup. It will be round or oval, depending on your body shape.
- If it hasn't opened, pull lightly down on the stem without actually pulling the cup out.
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![Step 1 Wash your hands.]()
Wash your hands. Just like when you insert the cup, you need to wash your hands thoroughly before removal, too. Take 20 seconds to wash your hands with soap and warm water to avoid introducing any bacteria into your vaginal area.[13] -
![Step 2 Check the cup to see if it’s full every 8 to 12 hours.]()
Check the cup to see if it’s full every 8 to 12 hours. Most of the time, you can get away with leaving the cup in for 8 to 12 hours. That means you only have to empty it in the morning and at night, which you can do in the comfort of your home.[14]- If you have a particularly heavy period, you may need to empty it more often.
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![Step 3 Sit over a toilet to take the cup out.]()
Sit over a toilet to take the cup out. While some people need to take it out standing up, try it over a toilet. It can be messy if you don't have the technique down yet. Don't worry, though. Once you figure out the best way for you to remove the cup, it tends to make very little mess at all![15] -
![Step 4 Pinch the sides of the cup to break the seal.]()
Pinch the sides of the cup to break the seal. You can't just yank the cup out, as suction will be working against you! Instead, grab the base of the cup just above the stem and pinch the sides together. That will break the seal enough for you to pull it out. Make sure to keep it upright as you pull it out.[16]- If that doesn't break the seal, try moving one finger over the rim of the cup.[17]
- Don't worry if you can't get it out on your first try! It can't get "lost" in your vagina; your vagina doesn't work that way. Take a moment, relax, and then try again.
-
![Step 5 Empty the cup into the toilet.]()
Empty the cup into the toilet. Continue to keep it upright as you move it toward the toilet, and then turn it over to dump out the contents. If you can't wash it out right then, you can simply wipe it off with toilet paper and re-insert it.[18]- Be careful not to drop it in the toilet! If you do, make sure to wash it thoroughly before putting it back in.
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![Step 6 Wash your cup with soap and water.]()
Wash your cup with soap and water. If possible, rinse the cup out in the sink. Then, rub it down with soap and warm water, making sure to use running water to get all the soap off. Then, you can put the cup back in.[19]- It's best to use a mild, unscented soap.
- If you have a disposable cup, toss it out and put in a new one.
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![Step 1 Sterilize silicone or rubber reusable cups between periods by boiling them.]()
Sterilize silicone or rubber reusable cups between periods by boiling them. Wash the cup out with soap and water. Then, bring water to a boil in a small pan. Place it in the pan, and boil it for 2 to 3 minutes to sanitize it. Keep a separate pan just for this purpose.[20]- You can also clean a menstrual cup with a sterilizing solution, like what you would use for baby bottles. You can find these solutions with the baby bottle supplies in big box stores.[21]
- Always read the directions for your cup about sterilization, as the process can differ from cup to cup.
-
![Step 2 Cut part of the stem off if it bothers you.]()
Cut part of the stem off if it bothers you. For some people, the stem on the cup is too long and causes irritation. If that's true for you, use scissors to snip the bottom half or so of the stem.[22]- The stem is useful for removing the cup, so don’t cut it all the way to the base of the cup.
- You can also just purchase one with a shorter stem.
-
![Step 3 Try out different cups if your first one doesn't feel right.]()
Try out different cups if your first one doesn't feel right. Not every cup is going to fit every person! That's why there are different ones out there. If you find yours to be uncomfortable, consider trying another one to see if that's a better fit.[23]- For instance, you can get a smaller cup, one with a shorter stem, or one made for people who are more sensitive.
- Some even come in different shapes! For instance, some cups are more angled than others.
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![Step 4 Get a cup...]()
Get a cup designed for a heavy flow to prevent leaking. While accidents do happen, you won’t leak in a cup most of the time, as long as you make sure to get the seal right.[24] However, if you're consistently overflowing your cup and you can't or don't want to check it more often, try out one made for a heavier flow. It will hold more liquid, making it less likely to overflow.
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Tips
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If you're uncomfortable with the concept of tampons or cups but still want to use reusable menstrual products, look into cloth pads or period underwear.Thanks
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Store your cup in a container that's breathable and easy to clean.Thanks
Tips from our Readers 
The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
- Always carry another menstrual product with you, like a pad or tampon, in case you feel uncomfortable or feel leaks. It's important to be comfortable while you're on your period.
- Wear a pad if it is your first time using a menstrual cup. It can help catch any leaks if you didn't insert the cup properly.
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Warnings
- On days when your flow is heavy, a full cup can leak. Try wearing back-up pads and emptying your cup more often on these days.Thanks
- Remove the cup before any sort of sexual activity, and know that it won't prevent pregnancy.[25]Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/should-you-try-a-menstrual-cup
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/
- ↑ https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/how-to-use-menstrual-cup
- ↑ https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/should-you-try-a-menstrual-cup
- ↑ https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/should-you-try-a-menstrual-cup
- ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/supplies.html
About This Article
Board Certified Integrative Medicine Doctor
This article was co-authored by Andrea Rudominer, MD, MPH and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Dr. Andrea Rudominer is a board certified Pediatrician and board certified Integrative Medicine Doctor based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Dr. Rudominer has over 15 years of medical care experience and specializes in preventive health care, obesity, adolescent care, ADHD, and culturally competent care. Dr. Rudominer received her MD from the University of California, Davis, and completed a residency at the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford University. Dr. Rudominer also has an MPH in Maternal Child Health from the University of California, Berkeley. She is a Member of the American Board of Pediatrics, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a Member and Delegate of the California Medical Association, and a Member of the Santa Clara County Medical Association. This article has been viewed 3,259,464 times.
Co-authors: 79
Updated: September 8, 2024
Views: 3,259,464
Categories: Featured Articles | Feminine Hygiene Products
Article SummaryX
A menstrual cup is a reusable alternative to sanitary products like pads or tampons. To use your cup, clean your hands with warm water and soap to wash away germs and dirt. You should also wash the cup with mild soap and water and rinse it thoroughly. When you’re ready to insert the cup, squat, stand with one leg propped up, or sit on the toilet with your knees apart. Pinch the cup to fold the sides in, then relax your muscles, spread your labia with your other hand, and slide the cup into your vagina, open end up. If it doesn’t feel comfortable, pull it out and try again. Some cups are meant to sit higher up in your vagina than others, so read the directions that come with your cup. Grab the cup by the base and give it a twist to make sure it pops open and creates a seal. When you’re ready to take the cup out, sit on the toilet, grab the base of the cup, and pinch the sides together to break the seal. After you slide it out, empty it into the toilet. For your safety, wash the cup with soap and water any time you change it, and disinfect it by boiling it in water for 5-7 minutes between periods. To learn how to troubleshoot common problems with your menstrual cup, read on!
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