Ultimate guide: How to use the the self-emptying menstrual cup for the first time?

Tiempo de lectura: 3 minutos

If you’ve just received your emptyable menstrual cup (welcome to the revolution!), it’s normal to feel excited… and a little unsure. Don’t worry: you’re taking a step towards a freer period.

Switching to an emptyable menstrual cup is a powerful decision. But it can also bring up questions: Am I doing it right? Will it hurt? Will it leak? At Sensual Intim, we know first times matter. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you feel supported from the very beginning.

Take your time

You don’t need to master it on the first try. In fact, you don’t even have to wait for your period to arrive. You can practice a few days before, calmly and with curiosity. This way, when your period comes, you’ll already know how to fold it, how it feels, and how to place it.

Create your moment

Think of this as a self-care ritual. Choose a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed, without rushing. You can play music, light a candle or simply take a deep breath. Learning how to use the cup is also a way to reconnect with yourself.

Get familiar with the material

Explore your emptyable menstrual cup step by step. Touch it, fold it, and stretch the tube; watch how it returns to its original shape when you release it, and see how the emptying system opens. Understanding how it works visually and physically will give you more confidence when the time comes to actually use it.

Sterilize it before first use

Even if it comes in its pouch, it’s important to sterilize your cup before first use.

You have two options:

• In the microwave: put water and the cup inside the sterilizing cup (without covering it completely) and heat for 2-3 minutes.
• In a pot: boil water and leave the cup submerged for 4-5 minutes. It should not touch the bottom.

Let it cool down for a few minutes before using it.

Try different positions

Not everyone feels comfortable squatting. You can try sitting on the toilet, with one leg on the bathtub, or even standing. The key is to relax your pelvic area and not force it. If you feel nervous, take a deep breath and try again later. It’s all good.

Learn to fold and insert it

Fold the cup to reduce its size. The two most common methods are:

• C or U shape: fold the cup in half.
• Punch down: press one side inward to make it narrower.

Once folded:

1. Use one hand to separate the vaginal lips.
2. Insert the cup slowly, angled toward the tailbone.
3. Once inside, release it so it opens by itself.
4. Use a finger to check that it has fully opened and created a small seal.

How to know if it’s correctly placed?

Great, you’ve placed it… but wait! There’s a little check worth doing. Just because the cup is inside doesn’t always mean it’s correctly positioned. And while this improves with practice, here are some signs that it’s in place: 

• You shouldn’t feel it if it’s properly positioned.
• If you feel pressure or discomfort, it’s probably too low or misaligned.
• Try gently rotating it or pushing it in a bit more.

Practice emptying it in the shower

A great idea for the first few times is to try emptying it in the shower. That way you won’t worry about spills or awkward movements.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Insert your fingers to the base of the cup (don’t pull the tube).
3. Gently pinch to break the seal.
4. Remove it slowly and keep it vertical.
5. Guide the flow toward the drain or practice directing it.

This will help you lose the fear and gain confidence without worrying about stains or splashes.

Cleaning and storing your menstrual cup

During your cycle:

• Wash your cup with water and a neutral intimate soap after each emptying.

At the end of your cycle:

• Sterilize it again.
• Let it air dry.
• Store it in its cloth pouch (never in an airtight container).

Be patient and celebrate each step

Don’t get frustrated if it’s not perfect on the first try. Sometimes it takes a full cycle (or two) to feel comfortable. Each experience is unique, and the most natural thing is that with every use, the cup becomes more yours.

Explore our shop and find everything you need to support you in this new stage. At Sensual Intim we’re here to help you experience your period with freedom, wellbeing, and without taboos. Ready to experience your period in a more comfortable and worry-free way?