Switching to a menstrual cup can be one of the best decisions you make for your period. It’s sustainable, cost-effective, and surprisingly comfortable once you get used to it. At YON E Global, we believe in making this transition as easy as possible. But for first-time users, there is often a short learning curve. To help you avoid early frustration, here are the most common menstrual cup mistakes and how to sidestep them for a smoother experience..
1. Choosing the Wrong Size
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is assuming all menstrual cups are the same size. In reality, size is determined by factors like your age, flow level, cervix height, and whether you’ve delivered a baby vaginally. Picking the wrong size can lead to leaks, discomfort, or constant readjusting.
- Small sizes are usually suggested for lighter flow and younger users.
- Larger sizes work better for postpartum bodies or heavier flow.
Before purchasing, always check the brand’s sizing guide and, where possible, try measuring your cervix height so you pick a cup that actually fits your body.
2. Inserting Without Relaxing
The pelvic floor muscles need to be relaxed for the cup to enter smoothly and open correctly. Nervous first-time users often tense up, which makes insertion difficult and even painful. This leads to frustration and early abandonment of the cup.
To prevent this:
- Take a few deep breaths.
- Fold the cup (C-fold or punch-down fold are easiest for beginners).
- Squat or prop one leg up — whatever feels natural to your body.
Once your pelvic muscles relax, the cup slides in much more gently. Relaxed muscles often make the difference between discomfort and a comfortable, successful fit.
3. Placing the Cup Too High
Unlike tampons, menstrual cups are designed to sit lower in the vaginal canal. If you push your cup too far upward, it may end up next to the cervix, which can cause uncomfortable suction or make removal unnecessarily difficult. A high-placed cup may also lead to leakage because it sits above the flow. Instead, insert the cup gently and allow it to open naturally just below the cervix. You should be able to touch the stem with your fingertip; if the cup is sitting too high, gently pull it downwards from the base to find the correct placement For first-timers, a softer option like our Compact Lily Cup can make the process even easier.
4. Ignoring the Seal and Suction
Another beginner mistake is not checking if the cup has unfolded completely. If the menstrual cup remains folded inside, it won’t collect blood properly and is more likely to leak. After insertion:
- Rotate the cup slightly
- Feel the rim with your finger to confirm it’s fully opened
- Gently pull down to check if it has created a light seal
This tiny step makes a huge difference in comfort and leak-prevention.
5. Removing the Cup Incorrectly
Many new users panic during removal and tug the cup down with the stem. This is a painful mistake. The menstrual cup is held in place by gentle suction, so pulling straight down without breaking the seal first creates strong downward pressure — which can hurt and even strain pelvic muscles. Instead:
- Pinch the base of the cup to break the seal.
- Slowly wiggle it side to side.
- Keep your muscles relaxed during removal.
Don’t wait too long to empty it. While most cups can stay for up to 12 hours, beginners should remove and clean it every 6–8 hours until they are fully comfortable.
Using a menstrual cup for the first time may seem tricky, but once you learn how to avoid these common mistakes, it can completely change your period for the better. Menstrual Cups are comfortable, eco-friendly, and save you money every month. Give yourself time to adjust and choose the right size, insert gently, and always listen to your body. Within a couple of cycles, most women never want to go back to disposable products again.
