Ready to Make The Switch? Tips on Using Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups were once considered a niche concept — much like reusable straws and bulk food shopping. But in recent years, they've exploded in popularity. What was once a fringe idea has now become part of mainstream conversation driven by social media buzz and growing. 

Why? Because the numbers don’t lie! The average woman uses approximately 22-period products per cycle over around 450 periods in their lifetime, which amounts to 5,000 to 15,000 disposable products generating 250-300 pounds of waste. Aside from the environmental impact, tampons and pads are known to leak, have odours, and cause irritation and infections —  all of which make them uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous. Not to mention, the cost of these disposables can add up over time. 

So, when the menstrual cup was introduced, it was only a matter of time before women began making the switch. Let’s find out all there is to know about how to use a period cup with the help of some frequently asked questions.

Created from medical-grade silicone or rubber, a menstrual cup is bell-shaped and small in size. Unlike pads and tampons, which absorb menstrual flow, the cup collects it. It can hold more menstrual flow, reducing the frequency of emptying, and it doesn't cause dryness or irritation.

When used correctly, menstrual cups are considered safe for most women. They are made from medical-grade materials and do not absorb harmful bacteria.

The FDA regulates menstrual cups as medical devices, ensuring they meet safety standards. 

A common myth about using menstrual cups is that they could lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), which is a rare but severe condition triggered by toxins churned by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.

The fact is that TSS is associated with tampon use. Although it may rarely occur with menstrual cups, there have been only a handful of reported cases worldwide. Proper hygiene and cup care can significantly reduce this risk.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the cup.
2. Choose a comfortable position: Insert the cup while standing, squatting, or sitting on the toilet.
3. Using a water-based lubricant can make insertion easier, especially for beginners.
4. Fold the cup: There are several folding techniques, including the C-fold, the punch-down fold, and the seven-fold. Experiment to find what works best for you.
5. Slowly slip the folded cup into your vagina, pointing towards your tailbone.
6. Allow the cup to open: Once fully inserted, release the fold, which should open up and create a seal between the outer surface of the cup and the vaginal wall.

1. Ensure you clean your hands properly before you touch the cup.
2. Find the stem: Locate the stem of the cup and gently pull it down.
3. Break the seal: Unseal by pinching the cup's base to release the vacuum.
4. Remove the cup: Carefully remove the cup and empty it into the toilet.

"It's important to choose the right size and shape for your body and to keep it clean to get the maximum benefits from the menstrual cup. After every use, clean the cup using gentle soap and water. Sterilise it in boiling water before the first use and after each menstrual cycle,” says Dr Miloni Gadoya, a gynaecologist based in Mumbai.

“Just remember to be patient!” she continues. “Getting used to using a menstrual cup might take a few cycles. Don't be discouraged if you experience leaks or discomfort initially. If you experience irritation, check that the cup is inserted correctly, is clean, and is the right size. If the issue persists, consult a healthcare provider.”

A well-fitting menstrual cup is crucial for comfort, effectiveness, and leak prevention. 

• Consistent leaks, especially during the heavier flow days, indicate the cup might need to be bigger or create a proper seal.
• It could be too large or positioned too high if you need help reaching or removing the cup.
• Pain or discomfort during insertion or wear can also indicate an improper fit.

• The position of your cervix can influence the best cup size.
• Heavier menstrual flow might require a larger cup.
• Strong vaginal muscles can sometimes accommodate a larger cup.
• Age and childbirth can impact cup size, with older women or those who have given birth often opting for larger sizes.
• Overall body size and vaginal canal length can influence cup selection.

• Cups are usually made from silicone or medical-grade rubber; you can choose based on personal preference or if you are allergic to any materials. 
• Softer cups might be more comfortable for beginners, while firmer ones offer better support for active lifestyles.

If you need more clarification about your cup size, consult the manufacturer's guidelines. Many brands offer cup sizing quizzes or consultations to help you find the perfect fit.

Approximately 90% of menstrual cup users report finding them easy to use and appreciate the reduced odour and dryness they provide compared to traditional menstrual products. A well-fitted cup can provide leak-free protection throughout the night.

To ensure a comfortable night's sleep:

• Choose the right size: An adequately fitted cup is less likely to leak or cause discomfort.
• Empty before bed: Empty and rinse your cup before sleep to minimise the chances of overflow.
• Consider a backup: Some women prefer using a menstrual pad or period underwear as a backup for added peace of mind.

While overnight wear is generally safe, it's best to avoid leaving the cup in for more than 12 hours.

How often you need to empty your menstrual cup is influenced by various factors:

• Menstrual flow: Heavier flow requires more frequent emptying.
• Cup capacity: Larger capacity cups can hold more menstrual fluid.
• Individual comfort: Some women simply prefer to empty their cups more often.

Generally, emptying the cup every 8-12 hours is a good starting point. However, you may need to empty it more frequently during heavier flow days.

Signs it's time to empty the cup:

• The cup feels full or heavy.
• You experience leakage.
• It's been more than 12 hours since the last emptying.

Embracing the menstrual cup might seem like a big step, but countless women have found it to be a life-changing choice.

Menstrual cups are gaining traction in India, with initiatives like Pure Hearts distributing free cups to underserved women and government schemes like Karnataka's Shuchinanna Maithri 6 programme providing them to the public.

The advantages are undeniable, from cost savings to increased comfort and convenience. Why not give it a try?