Menstrual care has evolved a lot in recent times, from cloth pads to tampons to today's increasingly popular menstrual cups. If you’re looking for a much safer, sustainable and most importantly a cost-effective option - menstrual cup is the best pick.
More and more women are opting for menstrual cups as they have realised the game changing effect as a body safe solution to manage their period. But what is a menstrual cup and why has it become so popular?
What is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, soft, and flexible funnel-shaped cup designed to be inserted into the vagina during your menstrual cycle to collect rather than absorb menstrual fluid. Unlike pads or tampons, which are disposed of after each use, menstrual cups are reusable. These cups come in various sizes to suit every body type as well as materials, all super safe for multiple uses throughout years.
These cups are typically made of:
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Medical-grade silicone – gentle on the body and safe for long-term use.
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Rubber – more flexible, but not suitable for people with latex allergies.
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Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) – a hypoallergenic alternative used in some cases.
Once inserted, the cup creates a gentle seal against the vaginal walls, collecting the blood safely and securely until it is removed, emptied, and cleaned.
Benefits of Using a Menstrual Cup
Still wondering why so many women are making the switch? Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:
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Eco-friendly - One menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, significantly reducing period waste.
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Cost-effective - Though the initial cost is higher, it saves thousands of rupees over time.
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Longer wear time - Can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow — fewer bathroom trips!
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Less odor - Since menstrual fluid is sealed inside the cup, there's less exposure to air, reducing odour.
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Lower risk of irritation - Menstrual cups are free from bleaches, perfumes, and chemicals, reducing skin irritation.
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Holds more fluid - A cup holds more than tampons or pads, making it ideal for women with heavy periods.
How to Insert a Menstrual Cup?
Using a menstrual cup for the first time can feel intimidating, but don’t worry — with the right steps and a little patience, it becomes second nature.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to inserting your cup comfortably:
Step 1: Wash Your Hands & Rinse the Cup
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Always begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. Rinse the cup with clean water to remove any dust or residue, especially if it’s been stored for a while.
Step 2: Fold the Cup
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There are several folding techniques to make insertion easier. Try a few and see what feels best for you:
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C-Fold: Press the cup in half to form a “C” shape.
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Punch-down Fold: Push one side of the rim into the base to make a narrow point.
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7-Fold: Flatten the cup and fold one corner down diagonally.
Step 3: Insert the Cup
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Find a comfortable position — sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised. Gently insert the folded cup angled towards your tailbone, not straight up.
Step 4: Let It Pop Open and Seal
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Once inside, the cup will unfold and create a gentle seal against the vaginal walls. This seal is what prevents leaks.
Step 5: Check the Placement
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Run a finger around the base of the cup to make sure it has fully opened. Gently rotate the cup or move it slightly up and down to ensure its secure.
Tip: Try inserting the cup during a lighter flow day or use a water-based lubricant to ease the process if you’re new to using it.
How to Remove a Menstrual Cup Safely
Removing the menstrual cup is just as important as inserting it correctly. Here’s how to do it safely and comfortably:
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Clean hands prevent introducing any bacteria into the vaginal area.
Step 2: Pinch the Base
Reach in and pinch the base of the cup (not the stem!) to break the seal. This is key to comfortable removal.
Step 3: Gently Pull Out
While pinching the base, slowly pull the cup out while keeping it upright to avoid spills. Use a gentle, side-to-side motion if needed.
Step 4: Empty and Rinse
Pour the contents into the toilet. Rinse the cup with water and a fragrance-free mild soap before reinserting.
Tip: Avoid pulling the cup by the stem alone — this can be uncomfortable and may cause suction, making removal harder.
How Often Should You Empty it?
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The frequency of emptying your menstrual cup depends on your flow, but here are some general guidelines:
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Every 4 to 12 hours, depending on how heavy your flow is.
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Most women can wear it overnight safely for up to 8–12 hours.
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At a minimum, empty and rinse it twice a day to maintain hygiene and prevent odour or leakage.
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Getting Comfortable Takes Time
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It’s perfectly normal to need a few cycles to fully adjust to using a menstrual cup. Be patient with yourself. The comfort, cost-saving, and sustainability it offers make the initial learning curve well worth it.
Hygiene tips:
Maintaining good hygiene is essential when using a menstrual cup. Here’s how to keep your cup clean and safe:
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During Your Period
After removing your cup, rinse it thoroughly with water.
Use a mild, fragrance-free soap (specifically formulated for intimate hygiene or menstrual cups).
Avoid soaps with strong perfumes or harsh chemicals as they can irritate sensitive vaginal tissue.
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Between Menstrual Cycles
At the end of your cycle, sterilize the cup by boiling it in water for 5–10 minutes. Make sure it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan to prevent melting.
Let it air dry completely.
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Storage
Store your clean, dry cup in a breathable cotton pouch (usually provided by the manufacturer).
Avoid airtight containers, which can trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth.
Never use bleach, alcohol, or oils on your menstrual cup — these can damage the silicone and irritate the vaginal lining.
