How to Use a Menstrual Cup: 6 East Step-by-Step Guide 2019

Today you're going to learn about how to use EvaCup in 6 easy step-by-step guide.

You may have heard of menstrual cups, and is probably asking yourself: What exactly it is and how does it work? For many women who have never used a cup, using one for the first time can seem scary and uncomfortable.

However, using it is actually simple, quick, and easy – you just need some time to be able to adjust to the process of using it. 

Watch Our Video Tutorial

Watch the detailed video tutorial about how to properly use the cup below. In this video, it will discuss everything you'll need to know about the product, from inserting, cleaning to removing the cup.

 

 

EASY STEPS ON HOW TO USE A MENSTRUAL CUP

Step-1: Sanitize the Unit On the first day of use, wash the EvaCup with water and mild soap, before boiling it in a pot of water for 5-10 minutes.

Step-2: Wash Your Hands Wash your hands before and after handling. Cleanliness is the key to safely using any menstrual cup.

Step-3: Menstrual Cup Folds Select a folding method that you feel comfortable. Then Grip the walls of your EvaCup with your thumb and forefinger together, so the stem faces your palm and the opening faces you. The "C" Fold 1. Start with an open cup 2. Pinch the cup closed 3. Fold in half (making a U/C/Heart Shape)   The "7" Fold 1. Start with an open cup 2. Fold half of the rim over   The "Punch Down" Fold 1. Start with an open cup 2. Push the rim down to the base 3. Pinch together so it doesn't spring open The "Origami" Fold 1. Start with an open cup 2. Push the rim down half way into the cup 3. Bring one top corner diagonally down to the opposite bottom corner

Step-4: Hold Grip the walls of your EvaCup with your thumb and forefinger together, so the stem faces your palm and the opening faces you.

Step-5: How to Insert a Menstrual Cup To insert the EvaCup, relax your muscles. Either sit, squat, or stand (whatever is most comfortable). Spread your labia with your other hand to help you ease your cup into your vagina. Water or water-based lubricant helps in inserting the EvaCup. The cup should sit lower than a tampon and it will create a light suction that prevents leaks or anything from escaping. You may gently rotate the cup to ensure that it is fully open. Every person is unique; take your time and find the best possible position for you.

Step-6: How to Remove a Menstrual Cup Before removing your cup, wash your hands. Gently pull the stem of the EvaCup until you can feel the base. Break the seal (suction) by pinching the base. Please note it's important to break the seal before removal so it would not be painful. There is the possibility an IUD can be dislodged if removing without breaking the seal. When you feel the suction release, use a slow side-to-side motion to dislodge your cup. Pushing your pelvic muscles aids the process.

 

Info-graphic: 6 Easy Steps To Use Anigan EvaCup

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a menstrual cup?

A menstrual cup is a reusable cup that collects your blood instead of absorbing it. Some menstrual cups that are available in the feminine products section are made of silicone or rubber. They’re meant to be flexible so you can easily insert the cup without any trouble at all.

One of the leading brands now is EvaCup. It is made from medical-grade silicone so it’s guaranteed safe. It is specially designed to prevent leakage and includes a harness so it will be easier to insert and remove. It is available in different sizes and colors.

When was the cup invented?

The first cup prototypes were patented in the 1870s but they were never released and sold in the market. In 1973, Leona Chalmers designed the first modern designed menstrual cups. The first cups were made from latex rubber.

Do menstrual cups really work?

Actually, yes they do. Cups are effective in handling your period. It collects your blood and from time to time, you can empty it and use it again. Since most cups are designed to be flexible, they can easily be folded before inserted.

Using a cup for the first time can be quite troublesome for first time cup users. There are many quick tips that you can check online to guide you in your =cup journey.

You can remove, empty, clean and reinsert twice a day, depending on your flow. You can easily pull it out when you plan to empty it. Also, you don’t need to sanitize it after every use. You can just wash it with warm water or you can even wipe it with wet wipes if you’re using public washrooms.

It is more beneficial to use cups than pads. There are no chemicals that will constantly be in touch with your vagina. Also, you don’t have to worry about the period smell that is absorbed by your pads.

 

What are the benefits of menstrual cup?

There are several reasons why you might want to switch from using pads and tampons to evacup:

• First, it’s Eco-friendly. Modern cups are durable and reusable.
• Second, it’s cheaper. Pads and tampons can have significant costs since you have to keep on buying them every time you have your period, while you only have to purchase a cup once!
• Finally, Evacup are more hygienic compared to tampons and pads, because your skin won’t be in direct contact with your period blood while you’re wearing your cup.

 

Who can use the cup?

• For new mothers, internal sanitary protection, like the cups, should not be used within 6 weeks from the day of delivery. Please consult with your doctor about using a cup after giving birth to baby.
• A cup can be used by women with retroverted or tilted uteruses. All you need to do is insert the unit at an angle that’s comfortable for you.
• Females who have not had anything vaginally inserted can use the cup comfortably. However, start out with the small sized cup. Note that the hymen can tear with the use of menstrual cups, but it does not mean you have lost your virginity.
• Women with prolapse (caused by pelvic floor weakness) must consult with a doctor before using EvaCup.
• Women going through menopause can also use EvaCup.
• EvaCup can be used during light flows as well as heavy flows.

 

Can you use EvaCup if you have internal birth control device such as IUD or NuvaRing®?

The EvaCup is worn low at the base of the vagina and away from the cervix. This means that it should not interfere with an internal birth control device. However, please use caution when using any internal feminine hygiene product with an IUD as there is the possibility that they can be dislodged. When using EvaCup, it is important to break the suction before removal. 

As with any gynecological concerns, please consult your physician prior to using any kind of internal feminine hygiene product, including a menstrual cup.

 

Can you use a cup if you are a virgin?

Yes, you can. You can’t lose your virginity while using a cup. In the past, your hymen is an indication of your virginity. However, new studies suggest that since the hymen is made up of thin tissues, they wear away as we grow and become teenagers.

Most young girls are engage in different activities like riding their bikes and other sports. When a girl has an active lifestyle, there is a possibility that her hymen is already stretched. Girls have different types of hymens that’s why some women bleed while others don’t after their first sexual intercourse.

Using evacup while you’re still a virgin can be challenging. Your vagina muscles might be tensed and tight. If it’s your first time to insert something in your vagina, you can’t expect to do it properly right away.

The first thing to do before considering evacup use is to make sure that you are familiar with your body, specifically your female anatomy.

You have to know where exactly to insert the cup. It’s also recommended to use a lubricant in case you are still having a hard time inserting the cup.

If you’re still worried that your hymen may be damaged, you may consult your doctor first before attempting to use a period cup.

 

Can it get Stuck?

Always make sure you choose the right sized cup. If you feel like the cup is lodged in there and does not come out after several attempts, try these tips:

• Stay calm and relaxed.
• Wait a while for the unit to settle if it's too high to reach. Squat to ease the cup out, (gravity should help a little), and spread your legs wide enough to open the vagina and try to remove the cup.
• If it’s still in there try using your bowel muscles to push the cup downwards, then try to extract the unit.
• You could also try inserting your forefinger parallel to the cup and pinching it with your thumb. Now gently try to pull it out.
• It is very unlikely that after trying everything above and you still can't get it out. But if it still gets stuck after trying all tricks please go to your OB/doctor to have them remove it for you within the 12 hours period. 

Can you pee with a cup in?

Yes, you can. As a woman, you have three holes: your vagina, anus and your urethra. Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina, not your urethra. You can pee with a menstrual cup in since it doesn’t block your urine. It’s possible that cups can make you pee because of the pressure to your bladder.

If you’re not comfortable with the idea of using a cup while peeing, you can pull it out and pee. It takes time for you to get used to peeing while using a cup. You just need to be patient and do whatever makes you feel comfortable with your cup.

 

How would I know if my EvaCup is an original?

Unfortunately, there are many imitations of various brands. To make sure your product is not a knock off, always purchase EvaCups from trusted stores like Amazon or Anigan online.

 

Can I sleep with menstrual cup?

It’s okay to sleep with a cup as long as it stays in place. And don’t worry, it won’t get lost inside.

Most women may need to empty their cups often because of their heavy flow while others can wait until 9 hours or more. Your vagina is capable of providing enough space for your cup to be inserted properly although it may shift especially if you move a lot while you’re sleeping.

If you can’t find your cup in the morning, don’t panic right away. Just keep yourself calm and relax. Relaxing your vagina muscles can help you find the stem so you don’t need to worry.

Can you go swimming with a menstrual cup?

Yes, you can go swimming with a menstrual cup. You insert your menstrual cup into your vagina so it’s literally inside it. The cup prevents leakage since it somehow creates a seal.

If you want to go swimming while you’re on your period, it’s better to empty the cup first before taking your swim. If you want to try using a menstrual cup while swimming, try to feel comfortable with the idea first.

 

Is menstrual cup safe for virgins?

Yes, it is. There’s nothing wrong using a menstrual cup while still a virgin. It is definitely safe for virgins as long as you’re comfortable using it. If you’re a first time cup user and still a virgin, it’s highly recommended to make sure your vagina muscles are relaxed before inserting it.

You muscles tend to be tensed and tight so you might feel a bit of pain. It can be uncomfortable at first, especially if you’re not used to inserting something in your vagina.

Once you get the hang of it, it can be comfortable to use for longer hours. Menstrual cups are safe for virgins. You won’t lose your virginity by using a period cup. It will just stretch your vagina muscles but it will not cause bleeding.

 

How to Clean and Store a Menstrual Cup?

There are a few different ways to clean and your EvaCup:

1. Wash your cup with mild unscented soap and rinse throughly.
2. Use a toothbrush to clean out the air holes beneath the rim of your cup. Do not use sharp objects (toothpicks, safety pins, etc.), which can puncture it.
3. Let your cup dry and store it at a room temperature.
4. When not in use, keep your evacup in a breathable pouch (supplied with your purchase).

More Information:

Check out some of our additional information about the product below.

• FAQs about EvaCup
• Menstrual Cup Size
• How Menstrual Cups Help African Girls