A menstrual cup is a flexible, bell-shaped device that is placed in the vagina to collect menstrual blood during menstruation. The concept is similar to a diaphragm or cervical cup and can be used in place of a pad or tampon.

Menstrual cups are usually made of silicone or latex. Most are reusable, but disposable menstrual cups are also available. People may prefer menstrual cups because they are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than other options, can be kept in place for several hours, and generally have less leakage than pads or tampons.

Menstrual cups are available in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes. They can also vary in flexibility and firmness. Some cups have a stem on the bottom to help remove the cup. Depending on the product, you may be able to cut the stem shorter before use for convenience.

Menstrual cups usually come in two sizes: a smaller cup for people under 30 who have not been pregnant before, or given birth and a larger cup for people over 30 or who have been pregnant or given birth. Some companies may offer additional sizes, such as smaller sizes for teenagers or beginners.

It is important to find a menstrual cup that fits you correctly. Cups that are too small can leak, while cups that are too big can cause discomfort. You may want to try a few brands to see which are the easiest to insert and the most comfortable to wear. Although menstrual cups do not require a prescription from an OB-GYN or other healthcare provider, talking with them about menstrual cup size and fit can be helpful.

Before using a menstrual cup for the first time, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You should also wash the cup and remove any residue or lint that may be present from the cup packaging. Most manufacturers recommend sterilizing a menstrual cup before use, which may involve placing the cup in boiling water for several minutes.

It’s normal to feel intimidated when using a menstrual cup for the first time. Practice is key; the more you use the cup, the more comfortable you will become. After the initial learning curve, inserting and removing the cup will become easier.

Here are the basic steps for using a menstrual cup correctly:

• Make sure the glass is clean before using it.
• Get into a position that will allow you to comfortably insert the cup into your vagina; many people find that squatting or sitting on a toilet can help.
• Bend the cup slightly for easier insertion. Common folds include a C-fold (folds the cup in half, vertically) or a 7-fold (flattens the cup and pulls a corner down), but any fold will help guide the cup inside.
• Open your labia and slide the folded cup inside your vagina. Point the cup towards the back of the vaginal canal and at a slight upward angle.
• Release your hand after the cup is in place. You may feel the sensation of the cup opening.
• Once inside, check for a proper seal at the top of the vagina. Run your finger along the cup to make sure it’s fully open and adjust as needed if you feel creases or bumps.

You can keep the menstrual cup in for 4-12 hours, depending on you menstrual flowbrand of glass and manufacturer’s instructions.

You should remove your cup and clean it every 4-12 hours, or sooner if needed. Before removing the cup, wash your hands with soap and water. You’ll want to remove the glass slowly and gently to avoid spilling its contents. Be sure to wash the mug between each use.

Here are the steps to remove the menstrual cup:

• Get into a comfortable position like the one you used to insert the cup. Consider squatting or standing over a toilet to make removal easier—and in case of spills.
• Break the cup seal by gently pinching the cup between your fingers or pushing a finger against the edge of the cup.
• While gripping the cup between your fingers, pull down to remove it. For stemmed cups, you can grab the stem and pull down. You can also hook a finger over the edge of the cup and pull down from there to remove it.
• If you have problems, try using pelvic muscles to help gently push the glass.
• Pour the contents of the glass down the toilet and clean it before reinserting it.

After removing the cup and cleaning its contents, wash the cup with soap and water before using it again. You should not sterilize it between uses during menstruation. Most manufacturers advise sterilizing the cup once your period has ended for a month before using it again.

Sterilization usually involves boiling the glass in water for 5-10 minutes. After boiling, dry the cup well. Store the mug completely dry in a suitable container or fabric bag breathable material. Make sure it’s not airtight, as bacteria or mold are more likely to build up in a container that isn’t breathable.

Periodically check menstrual cups for mold, scratches or cuts and replace cups when necessary.

You can do almost anything while using a menstrual cup, including all types of exercise. Although it is not recommended to have sex with certain brands of menstrual cups, some types are fine to use during sex. Check with your glass manufacturer for instructions.

Studies have found that there is no increased risk of infection when people use menstrual cups correctly. Leakage is similar to other types of period products such as pads and tampons. Most people find headphones comfortable and unobtrusive, provided you use them as directed.

You can reduce your chances of infection by cleaning and storing the cup properly and cleaning it every 4-12 hours. You can minimize leakage and discomfort by ensuring correct cup placement and a good seal between the cup and vaginal walls.

It’s also important that your cup is the right size. Trying different brands can be helpful as cups can differ in shape and material.

Other troubleshooting tips to keep in mind:

• Menstrual cups can be difficult to manage in a public toilet. Consider carrying disposable cleaning wipes or a small bottle of water to rinse the mug when away from home.
• Menstrual cups are made of various materials; if you have an acquaintance allergy certain materials, such as latex or silicone, be sure to choose a brand of menstrual cup that is not made of this material.
• When you’re first getting used to your menstrual cup, wearing a light pad to collect any blood that may leak can be helpful.

Menstrual cups are devices used during menstruation to collect menstrual blood. They can be kept inside the vagina for up to 12 hours and offer a more convenient, affordable and environmentally friendly choice compared to other options such as pads or tampons.

Inserting and removing the menstrual cup can be difficult at first, but most users learn quickly and find the cups to be an effective and comfortable menstrual product.