How to prepare your new menstrual cup and sanitize it

Before you use your menstrual cup for the first time, you may want to sanitize it. You can wash it with plain soap and water, and rinse it and let it dry. You can then sanitize it with a UV light OR You can boil plain water, and pour it over the cup and allow the water to cool. Don't boil your menstrual cup as this could damage it.

Store your menstrual cup in a clean dry state inside a cloth bag. You can repeat any or all of these sanitizing steps before storing your menstrual cup in a cloth bag between menstrual cycles.

How to put in your menstrual cup

If you can put in a tampon, you will likely find it relatively easy to insert a menstrual cup.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

2. Apply water or water-based body-safe lubricant to the rim of the cup.

3. Tightly fold the menstrual cup in half, holding it in one hand with the rim facing up.

4. Insert the cup, rim up, into your vagina like you would a tampon without an applicator. It should sit between your cervix - the thumb-like closure of your uterus - and the opening of your body.

5. Once the cup is in your vagina, rotate it. It will spring open to create an airtight seal that stops leaks.

Will you feel the menstrual cup?

When your menstrual cup is fitting inside properly, you won't feel it there. You will be able to move, jump, sit, stand, and do other everyday activities without your cup falling out. If you’re having trouble using your cup, speak with your doctor or me, Tracey TieF, Certified Natural Health Practitioner Tracey AT AnarresHealth DOT ca.

When to take your menstrual cup out

You can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours, in accordance with your flow. This means you can use a cup for overnight protection. You may need to use a light pad in case of leakage or overflow.

Remove, empty and clean your menstrual cup at least once every 12 hours. Most people will empty their menstrual cup every 2 to 4 hours, or when they use the toilet.

Remove your menstrual cup if you are about to have sexual vaginal intercourse. You can use a menstrual diaphragm or shield to collect menstrual flow during intercourse, but you cannot use a menstrual cup.

How to take your menstrual cup out

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

2. Place your wet thumb and first finger into your vagina. Pull the stem of the cup gently until you can reach the base.

3. Pinch the base to release the seal and pull down to remove the cup.

4. Once it’s out, empty the cup into the sink or toilet.

5. Wash and rinse your menstrual cup well before reinserting or storing it.

When to replace your menstrual cup

Your menstrual cup can last for up to 10 years with proper care. Replace your menstrual cup if it is damaged, or you need a different size or fit.