How to insert a menstrual cup for the first time

Inserting a menstrual cup for the first time can be a bit daunting. What if it gets stuck? How is it going to fit? How does it even work? We’re here to tell you that once you know how and get the hang of it, inserting a menstrual cup is easy & stress-free (even for beginners). So, let’s dive straight in and reveal how to insert a menstrual cup for the first time…

Hand hygiene is always essential, so make sure you thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water before diving down there. Also make sure your cup has had a quick clean too, this can just be a quick rinse with warm soapy water (make sure you remove all soap residue before you insert a menstrual cup!)

Make sure you’re in a stress-free and comfortable environment when you try inserting your menstrual cup for the first time. Whether this is after a relaxing bath or shower or squatting on the loo when you know you won’t be interrupted, take your time and do it somewhere you can concentrate comfortably.

We recommend trying out your cup before you start your next period. Why? Well, chances are your period is going to get a little messy, so if you master the art of inserting a menstrual cup before you next come on, you shouldn’t get yourself in a bloody pickle. 

By now you’re nice and relaxed and somewhere you feel safe & comfortable. Remember, don’t feel embarrassed about the position you use, all that matters here is that you’re in the right spot to insert your period cup and relax your pelvic floor muscles. Whether this is sitting or squatting on the toilet, resting one leg on the side of the bath or standing, it’s up to you. 

There’s lots of ways to fold your menstrual cup (seven in fact!) and as you continue the period cup journey, you’ll find the one that works best for you.

For beginners, we always recommend the Punchdown:

1. Push down one side of the cup until the wall of the cup touches the base of the cup.
2. Insert the cup into your vagina. 

Use one hand to gently separate your labia and the other to insert your cup slowly, rim-first, into the vaginal canal - remember this isn't a race! Go as slow as you need. 

Slide the cup up and back and aim towards your tailbone not directly up until the body of the cup is inside; the stem should be completely inside your vagina. We have a blog for further reading on where the stem of your menstrual cup should be if you need some more information. You should feel a pop as a seal will be created inside your vagina as the menstrual cup pops open. 

If you’re struggling to insert, try pushing it further with two fingers or you can try moistening your cup with room-temperature water, or apply some organic lubricant.

Run a finger along the inside of your vagina (now you can see why we told you try for the first time before your next period!) up to where the rim of the menstrual cup meets your vagina. Follow the rim and ensure the whole rim is open. Or you can grasp the stem and gently pull, you should feel some resistance or pressure from the suction which will tell you it’s in the correct position.