How To Insert a menstrual cup.
Keep your cup hygienic and long-lasting with three simple habits — clean, sanitize, store.
How To Insert a Menstrual Cup
Using a menstrual cup for the first time can feel a little intimidating - but it’s much easier than you think. If you’re new to reusable period care, learning how to insert a menstrual cup is all about finding the right fold, staying relaxed and giving yourself a little time to adjust. It’s completely normal if it feels unfamiliar at first - most women need a cycle or two to get fully comfortable.
A Flo Angel menstrual cup sits lower than a tampon and forms a gentle seal to collect period fluid and prevent leaks. Unlike tampons, it doesn’t absorb moisture, making it a body-safe, comfortable and sustainable period care option. Follow the simple steps below to learn how to insert your menstrual cup with confidence.
Wash
Always wash your hands thoroughly before inserting or removing your menstrual cup to keep the process clean and hygienic.
If your cup is brand new, make sure to sanitize it before first use.
Relax
Take a deep breath and relax. The more relaxed your body is, the easier inserting your menstrual cup will be. Stress can cause your muscles to tense up, which can make insertion more difficult. So breathe deeply, unclench, and think of puppies, ice cream or rainbows — whatever helps you relax
Fold and Hold
There are a few different menstrual cup folding methods, but we recommend the Punch Down Fold as it creates the smallest insertion point, making it ideal for beginners.
To create the Punch Down Fold, hold the base of the cup with one hand. Place your index finger on the rim and gently push it down into the base. Then squeeze the sides together and hold firmly until you’re ready to insert.
Insert
It is important to stay relaxed when inserting your menstrual cup. You can stand, sit or squat — over time you’ll find the position that feels most comfortable for you.
To insert your menstrual cup, gently separate your labia with your free hand and guide the folded cup into your vagina. You don’t need to insert it fully while it’s still folded. Most women insert the cup about halfway first.
Once it’s halfway in, use your thumb or finger to gently press the middle of the cup to help it open. Then wiggle or guide the cup upwards until it sits comfortably lower than a tampon.
Run your finger around the base of the cup to check that it feels round and fully opened, with no folds or dents. If needed, gently rotate or wiggle the base of the cup (not the stem) to help it settle into place.
A small amount of water-based lubricant can help make insertion easier. Avoid silicone-based lubricants or petroleum jelly, as these can damage your menstrual cup.
When inserted correctly, your cup should feel comfortable and you shouldn’t feel it at all. If it feels uncomfortable or leaks, remove it and try again — it can take a cycle or two to get used to.
HOW TO FOLD A MENSTRUAL CUP
The Punch Down Fold
The Punch Down Fold is one of the most popular menstrual cup folding methods and is ideal for beginners. It creates the smallest insertion point, making it one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to insert a menstrual cup.
Hold the cup
Hold your cup with your dominant hand, placing your thumb on the outside of the cup and your index finger on the inside.
Push down
Press the rim down with your index finger, pushing it towards the base of the cup.
Pinch to hold
Pinch the sides of the cup together to keep it in place. It should now be narrow and easy to insert.
Insert, release and guide up
Gently insert the folded cup at a slight angle. Once it’s halfway in, release it and guide it upward until it feels comfortable.
Tip: Practice makes perfect! It might take a few tries to get comfortable, but once you do, it will become second nature.
A cup sits lower than a tampon.
If you’re used to tampons, aim a little lower. A period cup rests lower in the vaginal canal, where it creates a comfortable, leak-free seal.
The stem and base of the cup should sit fully inside your body and should not protrude beyond the labia. If you can feel the stem, the cup may need to sit slightly higher or the stem may need trimming.
WEAR FOR UP TO 12 HOURS
Your Flo Angel cup can be worn for up to 12 hours before it needs to be emptied and reinserted.
On heavier flow days, you may need to empty it more often depending on your flow and the cup size you use.
Learn how to remove
your menstrual cup.
You've mastered insertion — taking it out is just as simple.