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How to use a menstrual cup

We know, using a period cup for the first time can feel intimidating. But trust us on this—give yourself a few cycles to get familiar with the cup, and it'll be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make!

To help you ease into the process, we’ve prepared a step-by-step beginner’s guide on how to use a period cup.

How to insert

1. Sterilise the cup
Before your first use, boil the cup in a pot for 5 minutes as cups may not be supplied in a sterile state.

The next time your period comes, just boil it for 3 minutes or use a cup wash to clean it before insertion.
2. Wash your hands
Wash your hands and nails with mild, fragrance-free soap.
3. Fold the cup
The Punch Down Fold and 7 Fold create a narrow tip making insertion easier.

Punch Down Fold:
Push down one side of the rim into the cup. Then pinch the sides of the rim together.

7 Fold:
Flatten the cup by pinching the rim together. Then fold one side of the rim down diagonally to the opposite side of the cup to form a '7' shape.

4. Apply lubricant
Apply a pea-sized amount of water-based lubricant at the tip and around the rim of the cup. This will help the cup slide in easy peasy!

Only use water-based lubricants that are compatible with silicone cups as others may react with the material.
5. Insert the cup
Get into a comfortable position and relax. Insertion is easier when your pelvic muscles are not tensed up.

Sit on a toilet, put one leg up on the toilet, or stand with your knees bent (like a half-squat).

Slide the cup into your vagina, tilting it backwards towards your tailbone.

Keep the cup folded until it is inside your vagina. Then let the cup spring open inside. You might hear a ‘pop’ sound. The whole cup (including the stem) should be inside the vagina.
6. Enjoy leak-free periods
Use a finger to feel around the cup to check if it's properly open. It should be round without dents.

If it's not fully open, twist or pinch the cup to help it pop open.

When the cup is open, it forms an airtight seal to keep it in place and prevent leaks. Go about your day and forget about your period for the next 8-12 hours!

How to remove

1. Wash your hands
Wash your hands and nails with mild, fragrance-free soap.
2. Remove the cup
Insert two fingers into the vagina and get hold of the cup. If you can’t reach it, gently push your pelvic floor muscles down (as if you’re taking a dump) and pull the stem gently to lower the cup.

Once you're able to reach the cup, pinch it to release the seal and slowly pull it out. The stem is not a pull tab. Do not remove the cup without releasing the suction.

Tip: Try using your thumb and the middle finger if the index finger doesn’t work for you. If you struggle to insert more than two fingers in, try sliding in one finger or your thumb to press the cup against the vaginal walls and drag it out.
3. Empty and rinse
Pour the blood out into the toilet bowl or sink. Rinse the cup with clean water or a cup wash.

To clean the air holes, fill the cup with water and place your palm over the cup to cover it. Turn it upside down and squeeze the cup so that the water gushes out through the air holes to unclog it.

If you’re still on your period, reinsert the cup. If your period is over, boil it for 5 minutes and store it in a breathable pouch. Do not store the cup in an airtight container.

Menstrual cup tips for beginners

You don't need to boil the cup every time you empty it. Just before/after your period.
Wear a pad or period panty in case of leakage. It's normal not to get it right the first time, but you’ll get better after each try!
Trim the stem if it’s too long and is poking you. The entire cup including the stem should be inside your vagina.
Just like trying anything new—like wearing contact lenses—it takes patience and practice. Give yourself 2-3 cycles to get the hang of it.