To remove the cup, a person can bear down slightly, as if they are having a bowel movement. Some people find it helpful to use the vaginal muscles to push the cup farther down.
Some people find it hard to feel the cup or stem. Do not worry — a menstrual cup cannot get lost in the vagina.
It can help to take a break and try again in a few minutes, especially if a person is feeling anxious or frustrated.
How to Take Your Menstrual Cup Out
To take out a menstrual cup, just follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Place your index finger and thumb into your vagina. Pull the stem of the cup gently until you can reach the base.
- Pinch the base to release the seal and pull down to remove the cup.
- Once it’s out, empty the cup into the sink or toilet.
Cleaning a Menstrual Cup
Keeping a menstrual cup clean is essential. Every time a person removes it, they should wash the cup with soap and water right away.
It is also a good idea to boil the cup in water for 5–10 minutes between each menstrual cycle.
To keep the cup from touching the sides or bottom of the pan and burning, a person could place their cup inside a metal whisk. This precaution is not necessary with certain brands.
It can be difficult to empty and clean a cup thoroughly in a public bathroom.
In this case, a person can wash their hands before entering the stall, then remove the cup and use a piece of toilet paper to wipe it out before reinserting it. Some people carry a small bottle of water to rinse their cup over the toilet.
Make sure to clean the cup well at the next opportunity.
A menstrual cup can be a great option for period hygiene, especially if a person no longer wants to use pads or tampons.
Always read the instructions on the packaging and become familiar with the cup before trying it for the first time. It may take several attempts to figure out how to use a cup, so patience and perseverance are key.
