How to use
Before you begin
Make sure that the four air holes at the top of your cup are open.
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Sterilize the cup for 3-5 minutes in boiling water. If you’re using it for the first time, you can boil it for up to 7 minutes. Use any kitchen pan to boil. Make sure that the cup does not touch the bottom of the pan. Use a pair of tongs or spoon to help remove the cup from the water. Let the cup cool down before using.
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Wash your hands with warm water and mild soap before moving on to the insertion.
Types of folds
You’re doing great so far! It’s time to insert the cup. Here are a few different folding methods you can try.
Punch Down Method
Hold the edge and punch downwards
7 Fold Method
Flatten and fold both sides one on top of the other
C Fold Method
Squish from the center to make a C
The best way to figure out which fold works best for you is through trial and error.
Usage
Before you begin this part, especially if you’re doing it for the first time, take a deep breath and relax. Putting pressure on yourself or stressing out will do the opposite of help.
- Squat, stand or take any position you are comfortable with. For first timers, squatting or standing upright with one leg propped up might be good places to start.
- Fold and insert the cup into your vagina, horizontally. It should move towards your tailbone and away from the cervix. Continue moving it till it is about half an inch into the vagina. The cup should open up before being inserted completely. You’ll know it has when you hear (or feel) a soft pop. You can also ensure that the cup opens up fully by inserting the cup halfway and then rotating it before pushing it all the way in.
- Check that the cup has unfolded properly. One way to double check is to hold the cup by the base (not the stem) and turn it one full rotation. Another thing you can do is run your finger along the base of the cup. It should feel smooth. If you feel a dent, rotate it again. Lastly, lightly pull on the step. You should feel a resistance. This means that a vacuum has been created and you have inserted your cup successfully!
Congratulations! Do you hear that? No? Exactly. Get ready for a life (or 12 hours, to begin with) of squelch free, plastic free, leak free and side effect free periods.
You can now wear this cup for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow.
And as it is for everything – practice till you’re perfect.
Tip: If you are facing problems with insertion, use water or a small amount of water based on the rim for lubricant for easier insertion.
Cup Care & After-Use
Removing the Menstrual Cup
- To remove the menstrual cup, was your hands and take a comfortable position. It is ideal to do it over the toilet bowl so that it becomes easier to empty the cup out. Start with locating the stem and pulling at it lightly until you feel the base. Then, hold onto the base and use a finger to create a dent to release the suction from the cup. Ease the cup out. You could also move it sideways slowly for a spill free removal. Do not simply pull the cup out using the stem as it will not break the vacuum and this could case you discomfort.
- Empty the contents of the cup and rinse it with mild soap and water. Once again, ensure that the cup is completely clean and the four air holes are clear. Do not use harsh soap with dyes or perfume, detergents, bleach etc. as this might irritate your skin. Reinsert using the process mentioned above.
- If you’re travelling or do not have access to water, clean using a simple toilet paper. You can rinse the cup with water once you reach home.
Sanitizing and Storage
- You do not need to but it you prefer to sanitize your cup in between cycles you can do so by boiling it in a pot for 3-5 minutes. Make sure the cup doesn’t touch the bottom of the pot.
- Store the cup in the jute bag provided. Do not store in plastic or airtight containers.
- Repeated use might eventually lead to discoloration of the cup. This is normal. You know it is time to replace the cup if there are tears, rips or sticky residue.
