How to Remove a Menstrual Cup

Menstrual cups have become a popular product for the period. They are reusable and more affordable.

However, it can be difficult and messy to remove them at first.

Here’s all you need to know about safe, comfortable and easy menstrual cup removal.

Here’s the quick answer:

Depending on the volume of your flow, you might be able to keep a menstrual cup in for up 12 hours.

It doesn’t matter what; you will need to take it out and empty it once more is gone.

Once you get the hang of it, it’s quite simple: simply pinch the base to release the cup and gently pull it out.

Wash your hands after using the restroom.

Step-by-step instructions on how to remove a menstrual cup

Before you insert your fingers into the vagina, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.

After they are clean, move into a comfortable position. This could involve sitting down or squatting on the toilet.

Place your thumb and index fingers until you feel the base.

To reach the base, you may pull the stem gently (if it has one).

You can feel the base and pinch it to open the seal.

Slowly pull the cup down until it comes out. Keep pinching the base to prevent spills and make the experience more comfortable.

What can you do if you feel discomfort after cup removal?

You may feel discomfort or pain if you pull out the menstrual cup without pinching its base.

This is because the suction seal created when the cup was inserted still in place.

Try pinching and pulling down.

If you have difficulty reaching the base, place one finger near the cup and push it against your vaginal wall. Next, place your finger on the cup’s rim and gently slide it out.

While this will be messier, it can reduce or eliminate discomfort.

People with vaginismus, or a uterus that moves position, may find their menstrual cups more uncomfortable than others.

However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be used. You may need to be gentler during the removal.

What do you do once the menstrual cup is out?

Your menstrual cup must be empty and cleaned, if it is reusable or thrown out if it is disposable.

After you have removed the blood, flush it into a sink.

Use warm water to rinse the cup. Then wash it thoroughly with fragrance-free soap. Make sure that all small holes are cleaned. If you cannot do this, wipe the cup with toilet paper.

(Check the manufacturer’s instructions as they may have specific cleaning guidelines.

You can reuse a cup if you need to do so. After that, wash your hands.

If you have finished your period, boil the cup and rinse it. Once it is clean, store it.

Most manufacturers recommend that the product be kept in a breathable bag or pouch to allow moisture to evaporate.

Additional frequently asked questions

Is it possible to remove your menstrual cup based on its size?

Taking out a menstrual cup that is too small for your body can be harder.

You may have a higher cervical height. This means that a cup with a shorter length will travel up the vaginal canal further and is more difficult to reach.

Larger cups tend to have a longer length, so you might need to use one of these instead.

Manufacturers often have size guides that can help you choose the right size.

By inserting one to two fingers into the vagina, you can measure the height of your cervix. This will allow you to locate the area that feels like your tip.

If you feel your cervix at the first knuckle, you likely have a lower one. You may have a higher cervix if you find it difficult to reach.

Remember that your cervix position can change throughout your menstrual cycles, so it is a good idea to check your period on the first day.

Can I use an IUD to remove my menstrual cups?

It is a myth that IUD users can’t use menstrual cups. The former is located in the vagina, while the latter is in your uterus.

Some guides that you wait six weeks after your IUD insert before using a cup. However, conflicting evidence exists about the potential dangers menstrual cups could pose.

In 2012, a study found no evidence that early IUD expulsion was more common in women with menstrual cups.

A 2019 review found a few reports of IUDs being dislodged in women who used menstrual cups, but no evidence that these cups cause IUD problems.

A 2020 study found IUD expulsion rates higher than expected in menstrual cup holders.

A series of a small case study published in 2019 revealed that 7 people had pulled their IUD strings accidentally while removing the cup. This led to the IUD falling out.

It is always a good idea to take care when you remove a menstrual cup. Your cup might be higher than your IUD strings if you have a lower cervical size.

You can check if your IUD works by checking the strings one month after your period. This will give you some peace of mind.

Is it possible for a menstrual cup to get stuck?

It may take some time to get used to. There have been reports that people needed professional help to remove their cups.

Your cup cannot get lost within you. It will stay below your cervix once it reaches it.

Try changing your position to get the cup out. You can do this by squatting lower or lifting one leg onto a bathtub or toilet.

Gently wiggle the base or stem to reach it again. This will help you to grasp the base and break the seal.

If you aren’t sure if the seal is breaking as easily, try pinching the cup for a few seconds. Or locate the cup’s edge and gently push it in. Before removing, wait for the sound of air coming out.

Sometimes, removing the cup from a slight angle can be helpful. This allows for more air to enter the vagina.

Sometimes, waiting until the cup comes out may be necessary. Your pelvic floor muscles must be relaxed to allow the cup to come out easily.

How messy can menstrual cup removal be?

You should be prepared for some blood.

However, you will become more proficient at removing it from your home and less likely to make a mess.

You can remove your menstrual cup from the shower, bath or toilet to prevent spillage on the floor.

To prevent spillages, use the removal mentioned above method.

It can be helpful to gently tilt the cup so that the rim is in the first half, before tilting it the opposite way.

When is it appropriate to consult with a doctor?

Talk to a healthcare professional if you are unsure if menstrual cups will work for you.

If the cup remains stuck in one position, don’t despair! A healthcare professional will be able to help you remove it.

What is the bottom line?

Menstrual cups are a great way for managing your period once you become comfortable with them.

Yes, it can be difficult at first. It is possible to make the process smoother and faster by breaking the seal and gently removing the cup.