Does using a menstrual cup while sleeping cause reflux? 4 tips to prevent leaks while sleeping!

Some people may be worried that if they use a menstrual cup while sleeping, blood will flow back into their body.
Menstrual cups do not absorb menstrual blood, but instead collect it inside the cup, which can cause concerns about reflux.
Once menstrual blood leaves the uterus, it cannot easily flow back.
However, there is a risk of leakage under certain conditions.

In this article, we will explain in detail about menstrual reflux and leakage while sleeping, and introduce ways to prevent menstrual leakage as well as recommended items to use when sleeping.
If you're hesitant to buy a menstrual cup because you're worried about it causing backflow, be sure to check out this article.

Using a menstrual cup while sleeping won't cause reflux, but it may leak.

Once menstrual blood has been collected in the menstrual cup, it rarely flows back into the body.
However, depending on how you use it, there is a possibility of menstrual blood leaking.
The main causes of menstrual leakage are when the amount of menstrual blood exceeds the capacity of the menstrual cup or when the cup is not inserted correctly.
It is not possible to guarantee 100% leak-free protection for everyone, but if you wear it in the correct position, you can prevent large amounts of leakage.

Also worth reading: Questions about menstrual cups from obstetrician-gynecologist Kanako Inaba

4 ways to prevent menstrual leakage while sleeping with a menstrual cup

Here are four ways to prevent menstrual leakage when sleeping with a menstrual cup:

• Keep to the usage time
• Fully open within the vagina
• Match size
• Put in the right position

With the right measures, you can enjoy a comfortable sleep with less worry about menstrual leakage.

Keep to the usage time

If you use the menstrual cup for longer than the specified time, your menstrual flow may exceed the cup's capacity and cause leakage.
Continuous use time varies depending on the product, but is generally between 8 and 12 hours.
For those with heavy menstrual flow or beginners, the cup may fill up sooner than intended, so it is best to change it frequently or use it in conjunction with other items.
Follow the product's recommended time to prevent leaks and stay comfortable.

Fully open within the vagina

Even if the menstrual cup is inserted in the correct position, if it is not fully opened inside the vagina, it will not fit snugly against the vaginal wall and menstrual blood will leak through the gap.

After inserting your menstrual cup, do the following to ensure it opens properly:

• Pinch the bottom of the cup
• Twist the stem (handle)
• Gently pull the cup out of the vagina

If you feel no discomfort after insertion and the only blood found on the outside of your vagina when you wipe your genitals, then it has been inserted correctly.

It may seem difficult at first glance, but murmo offers LINE support exclusively for purchasers so that even beginners can use it with confidence.
If you are having trouble opening the cup or are unsure if it is open, please feel free to contact us at any time.

Also worth reading: My menstrual cup won't open! I don't know if it's open! What to do when that happens

Match size

If the menstrual cup is not the right size, it may not hold enough volume or may slip out of place inside the vagina, leading to menstrual leakage.
Generally, it is said that those with heavy menstrual flow or who have given birth should choose a larger size, while those with light menstrual flow or who have not given birth should choose a smaller size.
However, if you start off using a larger size, you may have difficulty inserting it properly or it may cause pain when you insert it, which is why many people give up on using it.

Start with the standard medium size, and if you experience leakage or are very concerned, consider going up one size.

Put in the right position

If the menstrual cup is not placed correctly, it may leak.
If the cup is inserted too shallowly, it may slip and leak, so it is important to insert it diagonally towards the anus.
After inserting the menstrual cup, try applying pressure and moving around to see if it feels like it's coming out.
At first, you may feel reluctant to insert it all the way in.
It will take some practice to get used to it, but you will gradually be able to insert it smoothly.

Also worth reading: Do menstrual cups leak? Tips and tricks to prevent leaks, and how to use them comfortably

Recommended companion item for those worried about menstrual leakage while sleeping

If you are worried about menstrual blood leaking when using a menstrual cup while sleeping, we recommend using the following items in combination.

• napkin
• Water-absorbing shorts

By making use of these methods, you will be able to sleep comfortably even if you are not used to using a menstrual cup.

napkin

Using a menstrual cup and pads together means you can sleep peacefully without worrying about getting your underwear dirty.
For added security, choose a larger napkin.
If you are only using a menstrual cup, it may be safer to use it later in your period when your flow has decreased.

Water-absorbing shorts

If you use absorbent panties with your menstrual cup, the panties will absorb the blood in case of a leak, keeping it from staining your bedding.

When choosing breathable shorts, keep the following points in mind:

• Absorbency that matches menstrual flow
• Deep fit design
• Hip and waist fit

Absorbent shorts are comfortable because they don't slip off like pads and are less stiff. There are an increasing number of stylish designs, but if you're going to use them while sleeping, it's best to choose ones that prioritize leak prevention.

By using pads and absorbent underwear properly, you can help yourself sleep comfortably while using a menstrual cup.

summary

Using a menstrual cup while sleeping will generally not cause menstrual blood to flow backward.
However, there is a risk of leakage if you are not used to using it.

To prevent menstrual leakage, keep the following points in mind:

• Keep to the usage time
• Fully open within the vagina
• Match size
• Put in the right position

Once you get used to using a menstrual cup, it will be more comfortable to sleep with.
Murmo's menstrual cup is designed to be safe for beginners to use, and there is a support system in place.
Why not consider Murmo as your first menstrual cup?