Quick answer

Start with a small or soft cup, use the punch-down fold for easier insertion, and always break the seal before removing. Practice makes it quick and leak-free.

Why a menstrual cup is worth trying

A menstrual cup holds more fluid than a tampon or pad, so you can go longer between changes. It's reusable for years, which saves money and reduces waste. Many beginners worry about discomfort or leaks, but those issues usually come from incorrect placement or a poor seal.

Choosing your first cup: size and firmness matter

Cups come in different sizes and firmness levels. A smaller size is usually better if you're under 30 and haven't given birth vaginally. A softer cup is more comfortable for beginners but may be harder to open once inside. The Asan Menstrual Cup has a unique ring design that makes removal easier, which is helpful when you're still learning.

Step-by-step guide to using a menstrual cup

  1. Step 1: Wash your hands and the cup: Wash your hands with soap and water. Rinse the cup with warm water or boil it for 5 minutes before first use. A clean cup reduces the risk of irritation. Don't skip boiling before the first use—it's the only way to fully sterilize the silicone.
  2. Step 2: Choose a folding method: The punch-down fold is best for beginners: press one side of the rim down into the opposite side to create a narrow tip. This makes insertion easier and the cup opens more reliably inside. Avoid the C-fold if you have a sensitive bladder—it creates a wider shape that can press against the urethra.
  3. Step 3: Insert the cup at a comfortable angle: Squat or sit on the toilet with your knees apart. Hold the folded cup with the rim facing up and insert it toward your tailbone, not straight up. Push it in until only the stem or ring is just inside the vaginal opening. If you feel the cup, it's too low. Push it a little higher until you can't feel it.
  4. Step 4: Let the cup open and create a seal: Once the cup is inside, release the fold. It should pop open. Rotate the cup gently by twisting the base to make sure it's fully open. Run your finger around the rim to check for dents or folds. If the cup doesn't open, squeeze the base to break the seal and try again with a different fold.
  5. Step 5: Wear and empty on time: You can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. Empty it in the morning and evening for a typical day. When removing, pinch the base to break the seal, then gently pull the stem or ring to slide it out. Never pull the cup without breaking the seal first—it can cause discomfort or mild suction injury.
  6. Step 6: Clean and store between uses: Rinse the cup with cool water before washing with warm water and mild, unscented soap. Boil it for 5 minutes after each cycle. Store it in a breathable cotton pouch away from direct sunlight. Avoid using oil-based lubricants or scented soaps—they can degrade the silicone over time.

Product spotlight

  • Asan | Menstrual Cup: Loved by users for its unique ring design, the Asan cup is one of the easiest cups to insert and remove that we've come across. The ring pull tab lets you gently draw the cup down to break the seal without struggling with a short stem, which is a common frustration for new users.

    Asan | Menstrual Cup

    Asan | Menstrual Cup