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Thanks to being reusable and often more affordable, menstrual cups are popular period products. But removing them can be a little tricky (and messy) at first. From step-by-step guidance to cleaning tips, here’s everything you need to know about safe and comfortable menstrual cup removal.

1. Depending on how heavy your flow is, you may be able to keep a menstrual cup in for up to 12 hours,
2. Either way, it’ll need to be removed and emptied once full.
3. The process is pretty quick once you get used to it: when you’re ready to take the cup out, simply pinch the base and gently pull it down.
4. Don’t forget to wash your hands before.

First, thoroughly wash your hands with soap before inserting your fingers into your vagina. When they’re clean, get into a comfortable position, This may involve squatting or sitting on the toilet. Insert your thumb and index finger until you can feel the base of the menstrual cup.

1. You may need to gently pull the stem (if your cup has one) in order to reach the base.
2. Once you can feel the base, pinch it to break the seal.
3. Then slowly pull down until the cup comes out, continuing to pinch the base to avoid spills and make the process more comfortable.
4. If you try to pull the menstrual cup out without pinching the base, you may experience some pain or discomfort.

That’s because the suction seal that was created when you inserted the cup is still there. So try pinching and then pulling down. If you’re struggling to reach the base, place your finger next to the cup and gently push it against the wall of your vagina.

Then, hook your finger over the rim and gently slide it out. This will likely be messier but can help avoid or reduce discomfort. People who experience vaginismus or who have a uterus that changes position may find menstrual cups a little more uncomfortable than others. That doesn’t mean you can’t use them.

But you may need to be extra gentle during removal. Your menstrual cup will need to be emptied and cleaned if it’s reusable or thrown away if it’s disposable. Once you’ve removed it, empty the blood into a sink or toilet. Rinse the cup with warm water and wash thoroughly with fragrance-free soap, making sure any small holes are clean.

If this isn’t possible, wipe it with toilet paper and clean it when you get somewhere that this is possible. (Check manufacturer guidance, too, as some will give specific instructions for cleaning.) If you want to reinsert a reusable cup, then do so and wash your hands after. But if you’ve come to the end of your period, you can boil the cup for a few minutes after rinsing and store it once it’s clean.

Most manufacturers advise keeping it in a breathable pouch or bag to allow moisture to evaporate.

Why is my menstrual cup so hard to remove?

WHAT CAUSES A MENSTRUAL CUP TO BECOME STUCK? – The most likely culprits of a cup getting stuck, or you having trouble removing it, are that it’s either sitting too high or even sideways in the vagina and you’re unable to easily reach it, or the suction seal is super strong when you inserted it and you’re having trouble releasing it.

Are menstrual cups supposed to hurt when removing?

There should be no pain or discomfort while removing your menstrual cup. If you continue to experience pain while removing you should reach out to the customer service representatives of the brand of cup you’re using.

What do gynecologists say about menstrual cups?

Sanitary napkins vs tampons vs menstrual cup – Menstrual cups are far better than their predecessors and experts do recommend them across age groups. Other than being environmentally friendly, and budget-friendly, it also maintains the vaginal pH and eco flora, and prevents vaginal infection,

What if my menstrual cup is too far up?

STOCK IMAGE Firstly, relax – it’s not lost forever. They’re super-trendy right now, but menstrual cups aren’t totally foolproof. If you’re a first-time menstrual cup user, you may be concerned about the eco-friendly alternative to tampons and sanitary pads floating off inside you, and getting lost in the solar system that is your pelvic region.

• Don’t worry, while cups can be tricky for beginners to remove, they are never actually trapped inside you.
• The vagina ends at the cervix so there really isn’t anywhere for them to go, but if you are struggling to get the blighter out, there are a couple of things you can do.
• READ MORE: * Cups, lingerie and home-made pads: The reusable options for managing your period * Periods aren’t embarrassing, the cost of hygiene products is * Why periods were suddenly newsworthy in 2015 * Flex tampons allow women to have sex during their period “Your cup might have moved up too high for you to get a good grip on.

If this happens, make sure to use your pelvic floor muscles to push down, until you can get a good grip on the base of the cup,” women’s health brand Intimina advises in its step-by-step menstrual cup removal guide. “Once you can feel it, pinch the bottom of the cup until you can feel the seal break and air enter the cup.” If the danged thing still won’t come out, try pressing the rim of the cup.

It might have been inserted at an odd angle or have suctioned itself onto your cervix. Intimina suggest washing your hands and inserting two fingers inside of your vagina to locate the cup before trying the first two steps to remove it. According to Dr. Jennifer Wilder, who specialises in women’s health and spoke to SheKnows, if you get anything stuck inside, you can try to get it out on your own but only using your hands – don’t reach for the tool belt.

“Squatting often helps, but do not insert any object into the vagina to try to retrieve it. It can do more harm than good. You can end up injuring yourself and/or causing an infection.”

How deep should menstrual cup go?

4. Open – When you can no longer hold the cup in a folded position let it “pop” open inside your vagina, and continue to push the menstrual cup from the base of the cup. You should gently push the menstrual cup deep enough so that the stem is no longer protruding out of your vaginal opening. Do not push the menstrual cup so deep that you are unable to grab the stem of the cup.

Do period cups make cramps worse?

Can period cups make menstrual cramps worse? – Not likely. The only time menstrual cups can cause pain is when you insert them too close to your cervix (the mouth or opening to your uterus). Rarely, suction can form between your period cup and your cervix, which might feel like a pulling or aching.

• This type of pain is different than the aching, throbbing, sometimes wave-like pattern of menstrual cramps.
• Finding the right menstrual cup size is partly decided by your uterus and cervix’s size, shape, and location.
• Getting the right menstrual cup makes it less likely you have any discomfort from your period cup being too close to your cervix.

You can learn more about your cervix and menstrual cups and the best period cups to use with a tilted uterus with our easy-to-follow guides. Sometimes if you wear too large a menstrual cup or have it in the wrong place, it might feel uncomfortable or achy, but this is a different sensation than menstrual cramps.

• Don’t worry, menstrual cups can’t stretch you out or cause pelvic organ prolapse, even if you have the wrong size.
• Finding the right size menstrual cup and practicing how to find the perfect insertion technique are two ways to make sure you don’t have menstrual cup pain,
• If you wear the right-sized period cup, you should not feel any discomfort or ongoing pain.

There are better menstrual cups for beginners, so be sure to check out Ruby Cup’s saver kit with two sizes and a sterilizer,

Are menstrual cups less painful than tampons?

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process, Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm? Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence? Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. While menstrual cups have been around for many years, they have only recently become popular. A menstrual cup is a small, bell-shaped cup that a person can insert into their vagina to collect menstrual blood during a period.

• They are made of medical-grade silicone, rubber, or plastic and are usually reusable.
• People simply empty the cup, wash it with soap and water, and insert it again.
• Some brands are disposable, so a person can throw them away after each use or menstrual cycle.
• A person can wear a reusable cup for up to 6–12 hours before it needs to be removed and washed.

Anyone with a heavier menstrual flow may need to empty their cup more frequently. In this article, learn more about menstrual cups, including the pros, cons, and how to use one. Share on Pinterest Menstrual cups are a comfortable and eco-friendly alternative to tampons. There are many advantages to using a menstrual cup, including:

Financial savings : A cup can be a higher upfront investment, of around $25 to $45. However, one can last for several years, depending on the cup. Using a cup will ultimately save money, compared with the regular purchase of tampons or pads. Comfort : Many people report that a menstrual cup is more comfortable than pads or tampons. Cups tend not to cause vaginal dryness, which is a common complaint about tampons. Fewer cramps : There are some anecdotal reports of people having fewer or less painful menstrual cramps while using a cup. However, others find the opposite to be true. Less mess : When inserted properly, the cup should not leak or spill, and a person can wear one while working out, swimming, or showering. Some brands report that their cups are safe and comfortable to wear during sex. Reduced environmental impact : Pads and tampons are usually single-use and come with lots of packaging, but cups are designed for years of use. This can drastically reduce how many menstrual products wind up in landfills.

Inserting and removing a menstrual cup can be messy when a person is first using one. Some people feel squeamish or uncomfortable about their menstrual blood. Using a cup may not be a good option if this is the case. A menstrual cup can also feel uncomfortable if a person does not insert it properly or if they are using the wrong size.

In addition, a person with a very heavy flow or who frequently get clots in their menstrual blood may experience some leaks. Some people are concerned about contracting toxic shock syndrome (TSS), which is an infection that sometimes develops after prolonged use of tampons. However, TSS is extremely rare when using menstrual cups or tampons.

Using the cup as intended and emptying and washing it frequently can help reduce the risk of infections. There are two main parts of a menstrual cup: the cup and a thin stem at the bottom to make removal easier. Before using a cup for the first time, it is important to read the directions on the packaging carefully and wash or sterilize it accordingly.

1. It is best to wash the hands well with soap and water before inserting or removing a menstrual cup.
2. To insert it, fold the top of the cup and push it into the vagina, aiming it toward the lower back.
3. Some people find insertion easier when they are squatting.
4. Others prefer to be standing, sometimes with one foot raised, on the edge of the bathtub, for example.

Folding the cup correctly can seem complicated at first, but there are several methods to try. Some of the more popular folds include:

C-fold or U-fold : Press the sides of the cup together so that from the top it resembles a long oval. Fold the cup in half, so it looks like the letters C or U. Punch-down fold : Put a finger on the top rim of the cup and push it into the center of the cup (near the base), forming a triangle.7-fold : Press the sides of the cup together so that from the top it resembles a long oval. Fold one side down diagonally, so it looks like the number 7.

Once the rim of the cup is in, continue to push the cup into the vagina until the entire cup and stem are inside. The cup should “pop” open, preventing any menstrual blood from leaking. To ensure this, hold the cup by the base (not the stem) and turn it one full circle, or 360 degrees.

• Some people run their finger along the rim of the cup to ensure that it is in the right place and has opened correctly.
• When it is in the right place, most people cannot feel it and can forget that it is there.
• To remove the cup, a person can bear down slightly, as if they are having a bowel movement.

Some people find it helpful to use the vaginal muscles to push the cup farther down. Using the forefinger and thumb, reach into the vagina and grab the stem of the cup, gently pulling it down. Pinch the base of the cup to break the suction and remove it from the vagina.

• Try to keep the cup upright to avoid spilling any blood.
• Some people find it hard to feel the cup or stem.
• Do not worry — a menstrual cup cannot get lost in the vagina.
• It can help to take a break and try again in a few minutes, especially if a person is feeling anxious or frustrated.
• Eeping a menstrual cup clean is essential.

Every time a person removes it, they should wash the cup with soap and water right away. It is also a good idea to boil the cup in water for 5–10 minutes between each menstrual cycle. To keep the cup from touching the sides or bottom of the pan and burning, a person could place their cup inside a metal whisk.

• This precaution is not necessary with certain brands.
• It can be difficult to empty and clean a cup thoroughly in a public bathroom.
• In this case, a person can wash their hands before entering the stall, then remove the cup and use a piece of toilet paper to wipe it out before reinserting it.
• Some people carry a small bottle of water to rinse their cup over the toilet.

Make sure to clean the cup well at the next opportunity. A menstrual cup can be a great option for period hygiene, especially if a person no longer wants to use pads or tampons. Always read the instructions on the packaging and become familiar with the cup before trying it for the first time.

What are the side effects of menstrual cup?

Toxic shock syndrome – Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a serious and potentially life threatening bacterial infection that a strain of Staphylococcus aureus causes. It is most commonly associated with tampons, but in very rare cases, it also occurs in people who use menstrual cups.

1. Some advocates for menstrual cups cite older research as proof that TSS only occurs when people use highly absorbent materials internally, such as those found in tampons.
2. However, more recent research shows that TSS is possible in menstrual cup users too.
3. According to the authors of the review in The Lancet, the risk of TSS is low,

Compared with tampons and sanitary pads, menstrual cups are:

• reusable, which creates less waste
• convenient, as they can stay in the vagina for longer than tampons
• more cost effective than disposable products
• less likely to contribute to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, according to some studies
• potentially less likely to cause leaks once a person gets comfortable with using them

73% of menstrual cup users in The Lancet review wanted to continue using these products after the studies were over. It can take more time to learn how to use menstrual cups. A person may need to try several cups before they find the right one for them.

1. Some people have difficulty using menstrual cups.
2. In some cases, this is due to differences in anatomy or to conditions such as vaginismus, which causes pain when a person tries to insert items into the vagina.
3. A gynecologist may be able to help with this issue.
4. People with severe vaginal injuries and those who have just given birth should not insert anything into the vagina.

Before using a menstrual cup for the first time:

1. Find a cup that fits the body well and is neither too hard nor too soft.
2. Sterilize the cup by adding it to a pot of clean, boiling water for 10 minutes.
3. Alternatively, it is possible to purchase sterilization tablets, which can be useful when clean, hot water is not available.
4. Wash the hands with soap and water.

To insert a menstrual cup:

1. Wet the outside of the cup with water or apply water-based lubricant.
2. Press the rim of the cup together so that it forms a straight line. Fold it in half so that the rim forms a “C” shape.
3. Holding the cup in this shape, insert it rim-first into the vagina.
4. Once inside, the cup should open up and form a seal around the vaginal wall. A person can test this by running their finger around the edge.

A person can wear the cup for 8–12 hours at a time. They should then empty it and rinse it out thoroughly before reinserting it again. It is important never to wear a cup for longer than 12 hours at a time without emptying and washing it, even if it is not full. To remove the menstrual cup:

1. Wash the hands with soap and water.
2. Carefully insert the fingers into the vagina and pull gently on the stem of the cup.
3. When the bottom of the cup is within reach, pinch it to break the seal.
4. Remove the cup and empty the contents into the toilet or sink.

After each period is over, a person should sterilize the cup again before storing it in a clean container until the next period. They should never share menstrual cups with others. The term “virgin” describes someone who has not had penis-in-vagina sex.

• It is a social construct rather than a biological state.
• Using a menstrual cup does not mean that a person has lost their virginity.
• However, these items can occasionally stretch open the hymen, which is a thin piece of tissue that some people have around their vaginal opening.
• Even if a menstrual cup or tampon does stretch the hymen, this does not mean that a person is no longer a virgin.

Menstrual cups are safe to use, as long a person follows the safety guidelines. There is no evidence that they are any more dangerous than tampons. Rarely, menstrual cups can cause pain, urinary problems, or infection. If this occurs, it is important to stop using the product and speak to a doctor or gynecologist.

Why can I feel my menstrual cup stem?

Why Can I Feel My Menstrual Cup? If you’ve just inserted your menstrual cup or disc, and you can feel it, it’s most likely a response called ‘hyper-awareness.’ It’s human nature to focus on a new experience and take mental notes on how it’s going for you.

Who should not use menstrual cup?

Cons –

• More mess. The main disadvantage that people mention is how messy emptying the cup is. With practice, most of us can work out a suitable technique and quickly get over the “ick factor.” Also, cleaning it in a public bathroom might present a challenge for some.
• They can be difficult to insert. People who are younger and/or who’ve never had intercourse may find it difficult to insert the cups. And if you have an IUD in place, using a menstrual cup could pull the IUD strings and dislodge them. If you have concerns about insertion, talk to your healthcare provider.
• Possible fit problems. Individual anatomy can make proper use of the cup difficult. For instance, if you have a dropped uterus or uterine prolapse, Dr. Higgins says that a menstrual cup may not fit in place properly. But to ensure that you feel more comfortable when it comes to insertion, she recommends talking to your provider and asking them to walk you through the process during an office visit.
• They can be hard to remove. Taking menstrual cups out requires a bit of a learning curve. You shouldn’t pull on the stem when you remove it. Instead, pinch the base and pull and allow the collected fluid to empty into the toilet. You can then rinse it with tap water and reinsert.
• Regular sterilization is required. After each cycle, sterilize the cup using boiling water or a sterilizing solution used for baby bottles.

Is it normal to fill a menstrual cup in 2 hours?

Signs and Symptoms – No two women menstruate alike so it’s very difficult to quantify exactly what constitutes heavy menstrual bleeding. The SOGC has published definitions on page S6 of its new guidelines, published in the May issue of the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, which you can download here,

Having to change your pad or tampon every hour or filling a menstrual cup every 2-3 hours.Soaking through your bedclothes, pyjamas, clothing or upholsterySpending more than usual amounts of money on supplies every monthPassing clotsGushing blood upon standingChanging your social or work schedule to accommodate your periodA feeling of fullness in your bellyAnemiaChronic fatigueDifficulty concentrating or understanding thingsBleeding past menopause (if this is the case, you MUST see your doctor IMMEDIATELY)

Why aren t menstrual cups popular?

4 Reasons Why Menstrual Cups Aren’t More Popular Menstrual cups have been getting a lot of buzz lately. David Pereiras Villag/Thinkstock Menstrual cups have been getting a lot buzz in the last decade, so you’d be forgiven for thinking they were a new invention. But as Stuff Mom Never Told You host Cristen Conger mentions in the video, the very first one was patented in 1867, and an updated version actually made it to market in 1937.

• But they didn’t really take off until the turn of the century, “especially at women’s colleges and through alternative health Web sites,” as the put it in 2003.
• The soft cups usually are made of latex or silicone and are inserted into the vagina to catch period flow.
• They nestle against the cervix.
• The cup is left in place for a few hours, depending on flow, and washed out between uses.

One cup can last at least a year, so it’s much more affordable than buying tampons and pads every couple months and doesn’t generate all the environmental waste that those products do. Still, while popularity might have spread beyond women’s colleges, their sales are still a blip compared to those of pads and tampons in the U.S.

We’re creatures of habit, Women tend to use the same products they’ve always used. Chances are if you’re a woman who still gets her period you’re using the same brands your mom handed to you when you first got it. Vaginaphobia, You have to get up close and personal with your vagina to insert that cup correctly. That may be too close for some. The ick factor, There’s always the possibility of the cup getting too full and spilling its contents on you. Not fun. The money factor, Since pharmacies and feminine hygiene companies can make a lot more money from consumers buying monthly supplies, they have less incentive to stock or make menstrual cups.

Want to learn more about menstrual cups? Cristen Conger and Caroline Ervin from Stuff Mom Never Told You have you covered. You can watch the video above, listen to about the products or head on over to, : 4 Reasons Why Menstrual Cups Aren’t More Popular

Can menstrual cup move up?

1. Activate the pelvic floor muscles – Sometimes a menstrual cup will move up the vaginal canal. This is completely normal and part of the cup finding its ‘sweet spot’. While this is nothing to be alarmed about, it can make reaching the cup for removal a little more difficult.

Can you empty a menstrual cup without removing it?

A valve menstrual cup is one that has a valve, or otherwise open, straw-like stem, that is meant to make it possible to empty the cup without having to remove it. We often see cup users (and the cup curious) excitedly asking for reviews of valve menstrual cups because it seemingly makes the cup even easier to use.

How many times should I remove menstrual cup?

Emptying – Depending on how heavy your flow is, you may be able to wear your cup for up to 12 hours. You should always remove your cup by the 12-hour mark. This ensures regular cleaning and helps prevent a buildup of bacteria. To remove and empty your cup:

1. Wash your hands with warm water and mild antibacterial soap.
2. Slide your index finger and thumb into your vagina.
3. Pinch the base of the menstrual cup and gently pull to remove it. If you pull on the stem, you could have a mess on your hands.
4. Once it’s out, empty the cup into the sink or toilet.
5. Rinse the cup under tap water, wash it thoroughly, and reinsert.
6. Wash your hands after you’re done.

After your period is over, sterilize your cup by putting it in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. This will help prevent contamination during storage.