7 Menstrual Cup Folds to Try for Perfect Menstrual Cup Insertion

So now that you’ve got your new menstrual cup, it’s time to learn some menstrual cup folds. While there are many different ways to fold your cup for menstrual cup insertion out there to do it, you’ll definitely notice there’s probably one or two menstrual cup folding methods that work particularly well for you and your body and comfort level. Time to start testing them out! It’s really trial and error to find the menstrual cup fold that you find most comfortable to insert and easiest to get that “pop”  as the menstrual cup opens, letting you know you’ve created a good leakproof seal.

 

7 Menstrual Cup Folds to Try for Perfect Menstrual Cup Insertion

 

“C” Fold

This is probably the most common fold and comes with directions for just about every cup. This one however, is the widest of them all, which may not be great for everyone. You just have to pinch the cup and then fold it in half. You will quickly see the “C” shape and you can go ahead and insert.

Punch-Down Fold

Many people find this one to be one of the easiest because it decreasing the width significantly. The only issue is it doesn’t always pop open as easily once it is inserted. Push the rim of the cup down into the cup all the way down to the base with one finger. Then just pinch the sides of the cup together and grasp at the base to insert.

“7” Fold

The 7 fold menstrual cup is very popular because it is more narrow than the “C” fold but also pops open more easily than the punch-down fold. First start off by pinching the sides together same as the “C” fold. Then fold one side of the cup over and down so that it creates the shape of a “7” and insert.

Origami Fold

This one is probably the most complicated to describe but also lovely so pay attention! First, push one side of the rim down about halfway into the cup and then bring one side of the cup across the other and down like the “7” fold. Next press the cup flat so there are folds at the bottom. Lastly just pinch the bottom and insert!

“E” Fold

The folds with the letters are the best because you know exactly what kind of shape you are aiming for. For this one, you want to pinch the right side while smashing the left side together to get a “T” shape. Bring the leafs of the “T” shape down and around and you will have your “E” shape.

“S” Fold

For this one you simply need to bend it in half and then bring one side up while bringing the other down until you have an “S” shape.

Diamond Fold

This fold is just nice because of the name of it… and it also works well! Here you’ll want to begin by folding it in half then take the front lip and pull it down towards the base and you’ll have an oval shape. Press down a bit on the left side and hold it while using the other hand to do the same on the right hand side to create a diamond fold.

Best Menstrual Cup Cleaner & Wipes

If you’re looking for the best menstrual cup cleaner to keep your cup clean and fresh then take a look at the options we have found! Grab the best menstrual cup wash and and menstrual cup wipes for when you’re on the go!

 

Best Menstrual Cup Cleaner

 

Best Menstrual Cup Wipes

 

Using a Menstrual Cup for the First Time

If you’re new to using menstrual cups to manage your period then I’ve got a few tips to help you get started smoothly and successfully. Many women try a menstrual cup once and are subsequently put off because they have issues with discomfort, problems inserting or removing it or leaking while using their menstrual cup.

There is a learning curve with using a menstrual cup for the first time. It does take a few cycles to truly get to know how it works with your body but, once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it a comfortable and convenient way to manage your menstrual cycle each month.

I’ve put together a few menstrual cup tips to help you get used to using and removing a menstrual cup. Give them a read below and feel free to ask any questions below in the comments!

 

Menstrual Cup Tips: Using a Menstrual Cup for the First Time

Make sure you’re using the right menstrual cup!

Picking the right cup to get start is absolutely crucial to your success. You need a cup that is the right size, shape and capacity for your body and cycle. Use this guide to find the right menstrual cup. If you’re unsure, I would advise choosing a softer, smaller cup to get started with ease. You can always go larger if you find yourself emptying it more often than every 12 hours.

Practice during your period

Don’t try and do a “dry run” with your cup before you have your period. It doesn’t feel great and you’ll have no indication that your cup is properly inserted and won’t leak. Try once your period starts.

Start out in the shower

Give yourself time to warm up and relax in a hot shower. Squat or put a leg up and have a go at inserting your menstrual cup for the first time. It might take a few goes and it might be a bit messy but doing it in the shower takes care of that problem.

Experiment with different folds

There are quite a few ways to fold your menstrual cup to insert it but the most common are the C fold and the punch down fold. It might take you a couple of tries to master each fold and figure out one works best for your bod. You can read more about the different folds here and get directions on how to use them. I find it easiest to slide a finger up along side the cup as it goes in to make sure I’ve got the angle right and to stop the fold popping open to soon.

Make sure you have a good seal

Once you’ve inserted your cup you need to make sure you have a good seal to prevent it leaking. Fold it, insert it and then make sure your cup has popped open and formed a seal inside your vagina. You should be able to feel the cup pop open and into place. You may need to wiggle it into place a little. Give the stem a very gentle tug to make sure it’s in place. If it easily starts to move down your vagina when you tug it, there is no seal. Try turning it around a little until it slips into place. If it doesn’t work, take it out and try again, maybe even using a different fold style. If it has sealed properly you shouldn’t be able to pull it out when you give it a gentle tug. If you get a good seal, your cup won’t leak (unless it’s full to the brim!).

Tips for removing menstrual cup

Again, I recommend doing your removals in the shower. At least for the first few times. You can’t always use a shower when you’re out and about but, to start with, it’s the best place to practice. Squat and insert your thumb and index finger in to reach your menstrual cup. You might be able to reach the stem or the base of the cup but if you can’t you’ll need to move your cup down a bit using your vaginal muscles. Just bear down and push the cup down your vagina, similar to pooping. Do this with your fingers still inside yourself and you’ll soon feel the cup. Pinch the base or run a finger up the side to release the seal and the pull the cup out. It takes a few goes to get used to it so practice in the shower!

Wear back up protection

Just while you’re getting used to using your menstrual cup for the first few times, I would recommend wearing some back up protection. If you haven’t quite got your cup inserted right you could leak. Likewise, if it’s not inserted right and you’re feeling really uncomfortable, you want to be able to whip it out. I would suggest using a panty liner or pad or wearing a pair of menstrual panties just until you get used to your cup and are sure you won’t leak. Read our guide to buying the best menstrual panties here.

 

If you’ve got any Diva cup tips or tips for using other menstrual cups, let us know in the comments!

How to Ask Your Mom for a Menstrual Cup

If you’ve just started your period or had it a few times already then you know that using tampons and pads can be inconvenient, uncomfortable, smelly and a bit embarrassing. Switching to a menstrual cup is great for your health, the planet and your wallet. By starting out using a menstrual cup you’re setting yourself up for a healthier period. Trust me.

It can be tricky for teenage girls to talk to their moms about their bodies. If you want to ask your mom for a menstrual cup, here’s how.

 

Asking Your Mom for a Menstrual Cup:

If you feel comfortable talking to your mom about your period and your body then I suggest having a quick conversation and running through the benefits of using a menstrual cup over pads or tampons.

Here are some talking points:

• Talk to your mom about the cost-saving benefits of using a menstrual cup. Menstrual cups cost between $15-40 and are one-off purchase. The average woman spends $50 to $70 on disposable tampons and pads per year. That’s a big difference!
• Talk to your mom about the environmental benefits of using a menstrual cup. Zero waste to landfill. No smelly waste paper basket to empty from the bathroom.
• Talk to your mom about the physical health benefits. Tampons pose a risk of toxic shock syndrome. Teenage girls have died from toxic shock syndrome in the past.
• Let your mom know that using a menstrual cup can lessen cramping during your period.
• Let your mom know that using a menstrual cup doesn’t mean you’re not a virgin. (Some moms might think this is a concern. It’s really not OK!)

 

Alternatively, send mom this blog post!

Sometimes it’s easier to talk over email or instant message about these kinds of “awkward” subjects! You could send them this blog post to read through or copy the points below to an email and send it to your mom if you feel that would be easier.

Moms! If you’re reading this post because your daughter sent it to you, have a look through my guide to buying menstrual cups. I outline the full benefits and features of using a menstrual cup, how it works and which models are best for teenage girls.

>>>> Guide to Buying Menstrual Cups <<<<<

Blossum Cup is one of the best menstrual cups for teens! Click here to find out more about the Blossum Cup.

 

If you really want to, just buy a menstrual cup yourself!

I totally get that talking to your mom about your period can be tough or embarrassing. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your mom about your period at all then consider buying a menstrual cup online and having it shipped to a friend or relative’s house. A Blossum Cup is the most affordable menstrual cup and the great news is that it’s one of the best menstrual cups for teenagers.

How to Check Your Own Cervix Position (Low Cervix)

You’ve probably hear the term “low cervix” bandied about before. But what do it mean to have a low cervix? To start, you should really know what a cervix is and where it’s located. Your cervix is at the inside end of your vagina and is a small opening that leads to your uterus.

 

How do I tell if I have a low cervix?

Here’s how to measure your own cervix. It’s pretty easy actually!

• Measure at the beginning of your period. Your cervical height changes throughout your cycle.
• Using clean hands, either sitting on the edge of the bath or a closed toilet or standing with one leg up, insert your middle finger into your vagina.
• Some people people say the cervix feels like the end of your nose, others like a small squishy donut. You’ll know you’ve reached your cervix because your finger will not go any further up.
• Using your finger as a guide, measure how far you can reach inside before feeling the cervix. You can judge this by using your knuckles as a ruler. If you only get as far as your middle knuckle, you have a low cervix. If you can get your finger all the way in or can’t reach your cervix using your finger then you have a high cervix.

Need a picture guide? Have a look at this diagram.

 

I have a low cervix. Can I use a menstrual cup?

In order to use a menstrual cup you need at least two inches between the opening of your vagina and your cervix. If you can get your finger in as far as you’re middle knuckle then you’re probably ok. Most women can use a menstrual cup successfully.

 

What are the best menstrual cups for a low cervix?

If you’ve got a low cervix you need to choose a menstrual cup to suit your vagina. You’ll need a shorter cup length for sure. Here are a couple of menstrual cups suitable for a low cervix:

FemmyCycle Menstrual Cup Low Cervix Size

The FemmyCycle Menstrual Cup Low Cervix Size is one of the best menstrual cups for low cervix vaginas. It’s the shortest menstrual cup on the market so perfect to try out if you’ve struggled with other menstrual cups.

 

Lena Cup Small

The Lena Cup Small is a good option for women with a low cervix. The bell-shaped cup is comfortable and the small size cup is only 4.6 cm in length which is one of the smallest cup lengths. Just make sure you buy the small Lena cup, not the large.

 

Lunette Size 1

The Lunette Size 1 is another good choose for women with a low cervix as it’s a shorter cup and is soft a comfortable.