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How to use a menstrual cup

We know, using a menstrual 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 menstrual cup.

How to insert

1. Sterilise the period cup
Before your first use, boil the period cup in a pot for 5 minutes as period 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 period cup
The Punch Down Fold and 7 Fold form a narrow tip making insertion easier.

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

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

4. Apply lubricant
Apply some water-based lubricant around the top half of the folded menstrual cup. This will help the cup slide in easy peasy!

Only use water-based lubricants that are compatible with silicone menstrual cups as others may react with the material.
5. Insert the period 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 period cup into your vagina, tilting it backwards towards your tailbone.

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

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

When the menstrual 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 period 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 period cup.

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

Tip: If you struggle to insert more than two fingers in, try sliding in one finger or your thumb to press the period cup against the vaginal wall and drag it out.
3. Empty and rinse
Pour the blood out into the toilet bowl or sink. Rinse the menstrual cup with clean water or a menstrual cup wash.

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

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

Menstrual cup tips for beginners

You don't need to boil the menstrual 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 menstrual 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.