A menstrual cup is an eco-friendly alternative to tampons and pads.
Using a menstrual cup is straightforward, but it takes a little practice, especially at the beginning.
With our step-by-step guide, you'll be using it in no time.
1. Preparation
- Sterilize: Before the first use of a cycle, boil the menstrual cup in plenty of bubbling water for approx. 5 to 7 minutes.
- Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap before inserting and removing.
- Lubrication: Moisten the top rim of the cup with a little cold water or water-based lubricant to make insertion easier.
2. The right folding technique
Since the cup is too large to insert when unfolded, it must be compressed. Try out which technique works best for you:
- The C-fold: Flatten the cup and fold it in half so that the opening forms a "C".
- The punch-down fold: Push the top rim deep inward and downward with your thumb. This method creates a particularly narrow tip and is ideal for beginners.
3. Insertion
- Get into a relaxed position (e.g., sitting on the toilet, squatting, or with one leg raised).
- Insert the folded cup, rim first, diagonally backwards towards your tailbone (not straight up) into the vagina.
- The cup is positioned optimally when it is about two to three centimeters above the vaginal opening – noticeably lower than a conventional tampon.
4. Checking the fit
- Let go of the cup so it can unfold on its own inside.
- The vacuum check: Run a clean finger along the base of the cup. If you feel any dents, it has not unfolded completely. In this case, grip the base of the cup (not the stem) and rotate it slightly until you feel it pop open. The slight vacuum this creates ensures complete leak protection.
5. Removal & emptying
- Depending on the flow of your period, the cup can be worn for up to 8 to a maximum of 12 hours.
- Important: Never pull solely on the retrieval stem, as the existing vacuum must be released first.
- Instead, gently squeeze the base of the cup to softly release the suction.
- Pull the cup out upright, empty the contents into the toilet, rinse it thoroughly with cold water, and reinsert it if necessary.