Frequently asked questions about our menstrual cups
A menstrual cup is a silicone container inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. It is a reusable and eco-friendly alternative to other feminine hygiene methods, such as tampons and pads.
Do you want to learn how to insert a menstrual cup? Nowadays, many women have replaced tampons and pads with menstrual cups. It’s a sustainable, comfortable, and practical alternative to incorporate into your feminine hygiene routine.
However, many women feel unsure about how to use it, especially if it’s their first time. But don’t worry! At PapayaCup, we’ve prepared this step-by-step guide to help you learn how to insert your menstrual cup easily and safely.
Steps to insert a menstrual cup correctly
If you’re ready to start using a menstrual cup, it’s important to follow these basic steps to ensure proper use:
- Relax: Find a quiet place where you can be alone and relax. Tension can make insertion more difficult.
- Wash your hands: Before handling the cup, wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap.
- Fold the cup: There are several folding techniques for the menstrual cup, such as the “C” fold or the “7” fold. Choose the one you find most comfortable.
- Lubricate (optional): You can use a water-based lubricant to make insertion easier, especially if you feel dry.
- Insert the cup: Insert the folded cup into your vagina as if you were inserting a tampon. Guide it toward your tailbone.
- Release the cup: Once inside, the cup will open on its own and create a secure seal.
- Check the position: Gently insert one or two fingers to ensure the cup is fully open and properly placed.
How to know if the menstrual cup is correctly placed?
To ensure the cup is in the right position, here are some indicators to help you check:
- No leaks: If the cup is correctly positioned, you shouldn’t experience any leaks.
- No discomfort: The cup should not cause pain or discomfort.
- Normal activities: You can exercise, swim, or sleep without any issues.
Buy the PapayaCup menstrual cup
Ready for a more comfortable and sustainable period? PapayaCup is the perfect option for you! You can purchase your menstrual cup directly from our website and enjoy a product that’s comfortable, eco-friendly, and long-lasting.
At PapayaCup, we manufacture our cups in Germany, ensuring the highest quality standards. With proper care and maintenance, our cups can last up to 10 years.
Our PapayaCup menstrual cups are made with high-quality materials and designed to suit any body. Check them out today!
If you want to learn how to remove a menstrual cup, you’ve come to the right place! We know that, especially for beginners, removing the cup may seem tricky. However, with a little patience and practice, it becomes a simple and comfortable process.
At PapayaCup, we’ll guide you step by step on how to do it correctly, what to do if you encounter difficulties, and how to handle a "stuck" cup. Here’s a complete guide to clear all your doubts.
How to remove a menstrual cup: Step by step
To remove your menstrual cup safely and easily, just follow these steps:
- Wash your hands. Before starting, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands with water and soap. This helps prevent infections and maintains proper hygiene during the process.
- Find a comfortable position. Relax and adopt a posture that feels comfortable. Many people prefer to squat, sit on the toilet, or lift one leg onto a raised surface.
- Relax your muscles. This is crucial. If you’re tense, your vaginal muscles will contract, making removal more difficult. Take deep breaths and stay calm.
- Locate the base of the cup. Insert your fingers into your vagina until you feel the base of the cup. Avoid pulling directly on the stem, as this may cause discomfort.
- Break the seal. Gently pinch the base of the cup to break the suction seal. If this is difficult, slide a finger along the side of the cup to release the air.
- Remove the cup slowly. Pull the base of the cup gently, moving it side to side if necessary. Keep it upright to prevent spills.
- Empty and clean. Once removed, empty the contents into the toilet and clean the cup with water and mild soap before reinserting or storing it.
In our online store, you’ll find the PapayaCup menstrual cup, made with high-quality materials that adapt perfectly to your body for a comfortable and pleasant experience.
What to do if you can’t remove your menstrual cup?
If you can’t remove the menstrual cup on your first attempt, don’t worry—it’s more common than you think. Here are some helpful tips:
- Relax. Anxiety and stress can make it harder to remove the cup. Try to stay calm, take deep breaths, and try again.
- Change position. If you’re standing, try squatting or sitting on the toilet. This may help bring the cup closer to your reach.
- Gently push downward. Use your vaginal muscles to push the cup down, similar to how you would when urinating. This can help bring the cup closer to the vaginal opening.
- Use lubricant. You can also apply a bit of water-based lubricant to the vaginal entrance to make removal easier.
How to remove a stuck menstrual cup?
Sometimes, it may feel like your menstrual cup is "stuck." This can happen if a strong vacuum seal is created or if the cup moves up higher than usual. Here’s what to do in such cases:
- Do not pull forcefully. This can be uncomfortable and won’t help. Instead, focus on breaking the seal by gently pinching the base of the cup.
- Completely relax your muscles. Once relaxed, use your fingers to locate the base of the cup and press gently to release the suction.
- Seek professional help if needed. If you experience discomfort or cannot remove the cup after several attempts, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.
With time and practice, removing your menstrual cup will become an easy and stress-free part of your routine! 💜
The lifespan of a menstrual cup depends on its quality and care. However, in general, a medical-grade silicone cup, like PapayaCup, can last up to 10 years.
To ensure its longevity, it’s essential to:
- Clean it properly after each use.
- Sterilize it at the beginning and end of each cycle.
- Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a cotton pouch or similar breathable bag.
If you notice cracks, persistent stains, or an unpleasant odor, it’s time to replace it.
How long does a menstrual cup last?
A high-quality menstrual cup, like PapayaCup, is designed to last up to 10 years with proper care. This is because it is made from medical-grade silicone, a durable, hypoallergenic, and toxin-free material.
However, its lifespan will depend on several factors:
- Care and cleaning: Cleaning the cup after each use and sterilizing it before and after each cycle is essential for longevity.
- Frequent use: If you use your menstrual cup regularly, it may show signs of wear over time.
- Storage conditions: Keeping it in a cool, dry place, such as a cotton bag, will help maintain its quality.
How do you know when to replace your menstrual cup?
If you’re wondering when to change your menstrual cup, here are some signs to look out for:
- Cracks or visible deterioration: If you see cuts, cracks, or deformations, it’s best to replace the cup, as these can affect its effectiveness.
- Stains or discoloration: While stains do not affect functionality, you may prefer to replace your cup for aesthetic reasons.
- Unpleasant odor: A lingering bad smell, even after washing and sterilizing, may indicate that it’s time for a new cup.
- Frequent leaks: If your cup no longer fits well and leaks occur, despite using it correctly, you may need a different size or model.
How long can you wear a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup can provide protection for up to 12 hours, although this depends on your flow level. This means you can wear it all day or overnight without needing to empty it. However, consider the following:
- If you have a heavy flow, you may need to empty it before 12 hours to prevent leaks.
- Always wash and sterilize your cup to keep it clean and bacteria-free.
- It’s important to respect the time limit to avoid discomfort or infections.
By following these care and usage tips, your PapayaCup will remain in perfect condition for years, offering you a comfortable and sustainable period! 💜
Absolutely not. Menstrual cups are very safe. They are made from medical-grade silicone, a material that is biocompatible and safe for contact with living tissue.
However, it is very important to follow the recommended usage and care instructions to ensure the best experience. Proper cleaning, sterilization, and correct insertion will help maintain both your health and the durability of your menstrual cup.
To choose the right menstrual cup size, you need to consider factors such as your age, whether you have given birth vaginally, your menstrual flow volume, and the height of your cervix.
- If you are under 30 years old and have not given birth, a small size is usually ideal.
- If you are over 30 years old, have had vaginal births, or have a heavy flow, a larger size is recommended.
At PapayaCup, we will guide you on how to select the ideal size for you, how to insert the cup correctly, and why PapayaCup’s size guarantee gives you peace of mind when making your purchase.
Tips to Help You Choose the Right Menstrual Cup Size
Choosing the most suitable cup size depends on various body and lifestyle factors. Here are some key tips:
Age and History
- If you are under 30 years old and have not had vaginal births, a small size is generally recommended.
- If you are over 30 years old, have had vaginal births, or have a heavy flow, a medium or large size may be the best option.
Menstrual Flow Volume
- For light or moderate flow, a small size is sufficient.
- For heavy flow, consider a larger size to avoid frequent emptying.
Cervix Height
Your vaginal canal length is also important. You can check it by inserting a finger into your vagina during your period:
- If your cervix is close to the vaginal entrance, a shorter cup will be better.
- If your cervix is deeper, a longer cup may be more suitable.
Lifestyle
If you practice sports or have strong pelvic muscles (such as in yoga or Pilates), look for a more flexible yet firm cup to ensure a good fit.
How to Know How Far to Insert a Menstrual Cup?
The correct position of the menstrual cup is essential to avoid leaks and ensure greater comfort. Unlike a tampon, the cup does not need to be inserted as deeply. Follow these steps to find the ideal position:
- Insert the folded cup. When placing it, the cup should be fully open and slightly below the cervix. It should not feel uncomfortable or cause pressure.
- Check that it is properly positioned. Once inserted, run a finger around the base of the cup to ensure it is fully open and has formed a seal.
- Try different positions. Every body is different, so test various positions to find the most comfortable one for you.
- Adjust as needed.
- If the cup feels too low or uncomfortable, you may need to push it a little further up.
- If it rises too high and is difficult to reach, the size may not be suitable for you.
PapayaCup’s Size Guarantee
At PapayaCup, we want you to find the perfect menstrual cup for you, which is why we offer a correct size guarantee. This means that if, after three cycles, you notice that the cup is not your correct size and it is not damaged, we will exchange it for another one without any issues.
This policy is designed so that you feel secure when making your purchase, especially if you are a beginner and have doubts about which option is best for you.
Additionally, our team is always available to answer your questions and help you make the best decision. 💜
We know that starting with a menstrual cup can be challenging, which is why we have created a step-by-step video tutorial to help you learn how to use it correctly.
You can find the video tutorial by scanning the QR code printed on the tin that contains your PapayaCup.
We also recommend referring to the detailed information available in the user guide for additional guidance.
Despite what some may say, there is no evidence that sleeping with a menstrual cup is harmful to your pelvic floor.
However, it’s important to consider the number of hours you sleep to ensure you do not exceed the recommended maximum wear time for the cup, which is generally up to 12 hours.
This is a very common concern, but don’t worry—your cup cannot get lost inside your vagina.
The menstrual cup sits in the vaginal canal, which has a natural stopper—the cervix (the neck of the uterus). It is physically impossible for the cup to go beyond this point.
If you use a smaller size than needed, you might find it harder to reach the stem. However, with patience and a gentle downward push using your vaginal muscles, you will be able to remove it without any problems.
Absolutely! This is one of its biggest advantages. You can use a menstrual cup while practicing water sports, swimming, yoga, climbing, or even doing a handstand!
The secure seal created by the cup allows you to move freely without worries about leaks or discomfort.
If you feel that the stem is too low and it’s uncomfortable, you might have a low cervix, which causes the cup to sit lower than usual.
First, check that the cup is correctly positioned. If you still find it bothersome, you can trim the stem slightly to make it more comfortable. Just be careful not to cut too much, as the stem helps with removal.
Yes, but with some precautions. The IUD (intrauterine device) is a T-shaped contraceptive that sits in the uterus, while the menstrual cup is placed in the vaginal canal, meaning they should not come into direct contact.
However, the IUD has strings that extend into the vaginal canal. If these strings are too long, they might come into contact with the cup. To avoid any issues, it’s recommended to consult your healthcare provider to check if the strings can be trimmed to ensure both devices function properly.
The vaginal ring is a hormonal contraceptive device placed in the vaginal canal, which releases hormones to prevent ovulation.
Since the ring is worn for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break (which coincides with menstrual bleeding), in most cases, the ring and the menstrual cup should not need to be used at the same time.
However, if you experience longer periods, you may need to use both simultaneously. In this case, consult your healthcare provider to ensure proper usage and placement.
No. A menstrual cup is designed only to collect menstrual blood. It is not a contraceptive method.
It does not work as a barrier method like condoms or diaphragms, nor does it provide hormonal contraception like the vaginal ring. If you want to prevent pregnancy, you should use an appropriate contraceptive method.
If the sexual activity involves penetration, then no. The menstrual cup sits in the vaginal canal, meaning that during penetrative sex, the penis would come into contact with the cup.
However, sex is much more than penetration! You can explore other forms of pleasure, such as oral sex, masturbation, or external stimulation, while still wearing your menstrual cup.
For those looking for a cup that allows for penetrative sex, soft disposable menstrual discs are an alternative to consider.