Making the switch to reusable menstrual cups can feel like a big step, but it's a change that many women and menstruators find incredibly rewarding. While the idea might seem intimidating, the benefits are clear: comfort, sustainability, and up to 12 hours of reliable protection. We're here to walk you through the process with a simple, five-step guide to help you use period cups with total confidence and ease [1].
Before You Begin: Choosing Your Cup
Finding the right menstrual cup is the true first step to a comfortable experience. With so many menstrual cup brands on the market, the options can feel overwhelming [2]. The best fit depends on factors like your menstrual flow, cervix height, and whether you have given vaginal birth. Using a comparison chart can be a helpful way to see how different cups measure up [3].
At LOLA, our menstrual cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone and is always free of latex, dyes, and BPA. We offer two sizes to help you find your match.
- Size Small: Generally best for those with lighter flows, first-time cup users, or those who haven't given vaginal birth.
- Size Regular: Typically suited for heavier flows or for those who have delivered vaginally.
When in doubt, it's often best to start with the smaller size.
Step 1: Sterilize Your Cup
Before your first use, and between each cycle, you must sterilize your cup. This step is crucial for hygiene and your health, as it eliminates bacteria and reduces any risk of infection.
- Place the cup in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- To avoid burning or damaging the silicone, make sure the cup does not touch the bottom or sides of the pot. A great trick is to place it inside a wire whisk to keep it suspended in the water.
- Let the cup cool completely before you attempt to use it.
Rest assured, LOLA's cup is designed to withstand boiling temperatures. For daily cleaning during your period, a simple rinse with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water is all you need.
Step 2: Practice Your Fold
Menstrual cups are soft and flexible. To insert one, you first need to fold it to make it compact and easy to manage. There are many ways to do this, and practicing beforehand will help you find what works for you. Seeing a visual demonstration can be especially helpful [4].
The two most common folds are:
- The C-fold (or U-fold): Press the sides of the cup together to flatten it, then fold it in half to create a "C" shape.
- The Push-down fold: Use your index finger to push the rim of the cup down and into its base. This creates a much smaller, pointed tip that many women and menstruators find easier to insert.
Experiment with these folds while the cup is clean and dry. You can find more detailed instructions and other folding methods in our complete guide to using a menstrual cup.
Step 3: Get Comfortable and Insert
Relaxation is key to a smooth insertion. Tense pelvic muscles can make it difficult, so take a few deep breaths before you begin. Find a comfortable position, like sitting on the toilet, squatting low, or standing with one leg propped up on the tub.
First, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Hold your folded cup and gently guide it into your vagina. Unlike a tampon, you should aim it horizontally toward your tailbone, not straight up.
The cup is designed to sit lower in the vaginal canal than a tampon. When inserted correctly, the end of the stem should be about even with your vaginal opening.
Once the cup is inside, release your grip and let it "pop" open. It's normal for this to feel a bit awkward the first few times, so be patient with yourself.
Step 4: Ensure a Proper Seal
A proper seal is what creates a gentle vacuum to provide that famous leak-proof protection. Once the cup is inside and has opened, you need to make sure it has formed a complete seal against your vaginal walls. An incomplete seal is the most common reason for leaks.
To check the seal:
- Gently hold the ribbed base of the cup, not the stem, and try to rotate it 360 degrees.
- Run a finger around the outside of the cup's base to check for any dents or folds. The base should feel round or oval.
If you feel any gaps, the cup has not opened fully. Try to gently wiggle it or pinch the base again to encourage it to open. When inserted correctly, you shouldn't feel the cup at all.
Step 5: Remove, Clean, and Reinsert
You can safely wear your menstrual cup for up to 12 hours. When it's time to empty it, find a comfortable and private space.
- Start by washing your hands and relaxing your pelvic muscles.
- Do not just pull on the stem. This is the most important rule. The stem is a guide, not a handle. Pulling it without breaking the seal will create uncomfortable suction and won't effectively remove the cup.
- Reach up and firmly pinch the ribbed base of the cup to break the seal. You should hear or feel a quiet whoosh as the suction releases.
- Once the seal is broken, gently guide the cup out, keeping it upright to avoid spills.
After removal, empty the contents into the toilet. Rinse the cup with warm water and a mild, unscented soap before reinserting. If you're in a public restroom without a private sink, you can simply wipe it clean with toilet paper or a cleansing wipe until you can rinse it properly later. Find more details in our insertion and removal guide.
Tips for a Comfortable Experience
Even with the best instructions, there's a learning curve. Don't get discouraged! Here are a few extra tips for success.
- Use backup protection: For your first cycle or two, you might want to wear a panty liner or period underwear for extra peace of mind while you master your technique.
- Try a water-based lubricant: A small amount of lube on the rim of the cup can make insertion much smoother, especially when you're just starting out.
- Embrace the freedom: Remember that you can wear your cup for up to 12 hours, whether you're swimming, sleeping, hiking, or just living your life.
- Store it properly: Between periods, make sure your cup is clean and dry. Store it in its breathable carrying pouch in a cool, dry place.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Feeling a little stuck? It's normal to run into a few hurdles. Here are solutions to the most common concerns.
- Leaking? Leaks are usually caused by an improper seal, the cup not being fully open, or needing to be emptied. The fix is usually to remove and re-insert it, making sure it pops open completely and you check the seal.
- Discomfort? If you can feel the cup, it might be positioned too high or be the wrong size or firmness for your body. Remember, there are many different types of cups out there [5]. Try adjusting its position first. If that doesn't work, you may need a different shape or size.
- Can't get it out? First, take a deep breath. It is physically impossible for the cup to get lost inside you. The best thing to do is relax your pelvic muscles. Get into a deep squat to shorten the vaginal canal, bear down gently with your muscles, and then reach up to pinch the base and break the seal. For more reassurance, check out our menstrual cup help guide.
Making the switch to a menstrual cup is a powerful choice for your body, your wallet, and the planet. The benefits of long-lasting comfort, less waste, and significant cost-savings make it a change worth celebrating. Remember that practice and patience are key.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Explore all of LOLA's period care options made with you and your body in mind.