A menstrual cup is a small vessel that you insert into your vagina during your menstrual bleed. Blood is collected in the cup and you simply empty it out at the end of the day. There are many different types  of cups, but the most popular ones are Blossom, Dutchess, and LENA. When you are on a light day, or as a back up with the cup, you can use period underwear like this.

Cups vs. pads:

  • once inserted, you don’t see or feel it
  • no skin irritations or rashes
  • no dampness

Cups vs. tampons:

  • no toxins, bleaches or other chemicals inside your vagina
  • cups collect the blood and do not dry you out like a tampon
  • drastically decreases the risk of yeast and other infections
  • basically invisible – no fear of that string peeking out

Instructions

 

1. Fold and hold

Always start by washing your hands. Fold the cup using a fold that works best for you. Many start with the C-fold (as shown in the picture). If that doesn’t work for you, try some of the other folds to make insertion easier. Every menstruator’s anatomy is unique, so find the fold that works for you.

 

2. Insert and ensure

 

As with tampons, gently insert the folded cup into your vagina, tilting it backwards to the base of your spine. The cup should sit as low as it can comfortably sit inside your vagina, normally lower than a tampon but with the stem fully inside.

 

 

When the cup is inside, it will pop open, creating a light suction. The suction is how the cup prevents leaks, so use your finger to check if it is fully unfolded. Twist or rotate the cup if you need to.

 

 

3. Use it up to twelve hours

One of the great benefits of using a menstrual cup is that it can be used for up to twelve hours. How often you need to empty your cup depends on your cycle and flow, though most menstrual cup users find they need to empty it only in the morning and again in the evening.

 

4. Remove and empty

With clean hands, gently pull the stem of the cup downwards until you can reach and grip the base of the cup. Pinch the base to release the suction and take it out gently.

You may need to use your pelvic muscles to push your cup lower in the vagina to help you reach the base with your fingers.

 

 

When you have removed your cup, empty it into the toilet, and rinse it with water. If you do not have access to water, you can wipe it with some tissue or simply reinsert it directly after emptying it. But make sure to rinse it at your next available opportunity.

 

 

5. Re-insert

When your cup is rinsed, you can reinsert it, and you are ready to go again!

 

 

 

Information thanks to Ruby Cup.