How to insert a menstrual cup: questions and tips

For those of you who have already tried it and for those who have not, here is everything you need to know about the menstrual cup. We answer common questions, explain how to insert it and share tips for using it in summer.

Anyone who has already tried the menstrual cup says it is one of the best inventions ever. Why? Because your period stops being such a problem. You can swim in the sea or in a pool without worrying, it helps protect against annoying infections and it can be reused...

And that is not all. You do not need to keep changing it every 2 or 3 hours, because the capacity of a menstrual cup is around 10 hours.

What is more, it is not disposable, unlike tampons or sanitary pads. A single menstrual cup can last up to 10 years; you simply sterilise it after each use in boiling water, dry it and store it in its case.

If you have not yet read our post on the menstrual cup and why it has become such a breakthrough, click here. We explain everything in full detail.

How to insert a menstrual cup step by step

Whether you have already used one or are thinking about trying it, we are going to answer one of the questions you ask us most often.

First of all, it is important to know that menstrual cups also come in sizes. And now you may be wondering: which size is mine? It depends on whether you have ever given birth, how old you were and whether the birth was vaginal or by caesarean section.

Exercise and height can also influence whether one size is better than another. Sports such as athletics, basketball, running, tennis or volleyball often weaken the pelvic floor, in which case a larger size may be needed.

With yoga or Pilates, however, the opposite tends to happen and a smaller size may be more suitable. Height also matters. Taller women with a stronger build may need a larger size, while shorter women or those with a smaller frame may need a smaller one.

Now that that is clear, here is how to insert a menstrual cup, step by step.

Step 1

When inserting the menstrual cup, it is very important to feel comfortable and relaxed. The best thing is to sit on the toilet with your legs apart and introduce the cup. But be careful: it should still be folded closed at this point.

Step 2

How do you insert it? Folded closed and placing the folded cup into the vagina, but not all the way to the bottom, as the tip should remain outside.

Step 3

How do you know if it is positioned correctly? By rotating the cup. If you prefer, you can also check by touching it gently with your index finger. And if you need extra help, you can choose the option where the menstrual cup includes an applicator. On our website, they are available in size S and size M.

Menstrual cup at the beach and in the pool

This is another of the most repeated questions, especially in recent weeks when many of you are packing your bags and thinking about holidays.

Many of you are unsure whether the menstrual cup can be used while swimming in the sea or in the pool and worry that it might fill with water or not protect you enough. Just like tampons, the cup can also be worn while going for a swim.

What is more, wearing it does not only prevent leaks, it also helps protect the body from possible infections caused by chlorine, bacteria and so on. And diving? That is fine too.

As we mentioned at the beginning of the post and in earlier ones, one of the advantages of using a menstrual cup is that you hardly notice it is there. That means you can get on with normal life, even if you are at the beach or the pool.

Where can you buy one?

On the Farmaciasdirect website you can find the Enna menstrual cup, with and without an applicator, in size S, size M and size L, along with a wide range of products focused on women’s intimate hygiene.

They are all made from biodegradable silicone, so their use does not cause reactions or allergies, and they come with a cord to make removal easier, a sterilising box and two units.

Now that you know how to insert a menstrual cup and the many advantages of using one, we cannot think of a better time than summer to try it. Are you up for it?