How does a menstrual cup work? Explaining why it can catch menstrual blood
"How do I use a menstrual cup? I'm worried because I don't really understand how it works..."
Menstrual cups appear to have no fasteners and are simply inserted.
It's natural to be concerned about whether it will stay inside the vagina and properly receive menstrual blood.
In this article, we'll explain the basic mechanism of menstrual cups and why they can capture menstrual blood.
We will also introduce the correct way to wear it and the correct positioning, so if you read to the end you will be able to use the menstrual cup with less anxiety.
If you want to make your menstrual cup debut and have as few questions as possible about it, please refer to this article.
Table of ContentsHow menstrual cups work: Explaining why they don't leak
The various mechanisms behind menstrual cups
What to consider if your menstrual cup falls out or leaks
Correct insertion and placement of the menstrual cup
Frequently asked questions about how menstrual cups work
summary |
How menstrual cups work: Explaining why they don't leak
When used correctly, the menstrual cup fits snugly inside the vagina and captures menstrual blood properly.
Here we will explain in detail how menstrual cups work, how they collect menstrual blood and prevent it from leaking out.
The cup fits snugly against the vaginal wall
When you place the menstrual cup in your vagina, it will naturally unfold and fit snugly against the walls of your vagina.
It's similar to how a wet suction cup sticks to a tile when pressed against it.
Because the inside of the vagina is soft, the cup conforms to the shape of your body and stays in place even when you move.
Furthermore, when the cup opens, it creates a vacuum inside the vagina.
This condition is called "negative pressure," and this force holds the cup firmly in place so it won't come off or fall off easily.
This means you can use it without worrying about it coming off even when you move your body during sports or other activities.
Menstrual blood naturally settles into the cup
During menstruation, menstrual blood trickles out of the uterus and passes through the vagina to the outside of the body.
If you use a menstrual cup correctly, the blood will naturally collect inside the cup.
The average amount of menstrual blood lost during one menstrual cycle is said to be between 20g and 140g. [1]
Most menstrual cups have a capacity of around 15ml to 30ml, so as long as your menstrual flow is not too heavy, you can leave it in for long periods without worrying about leaks.
Another advantage of menstrual cups is that they immediately catch the menstrual blood that comes out, so the blood is less likely to come into contact with air and there is less of a noticeable odor.
As such, if you wear a menstrual cup correctly, you can enjoy your period comfortably without having to worry about menstrual blood leaking without having to do anything special.
The various mechanisms behind menstrual cups
We will explain in detail various questions surrounding menstrual cups, along with how the body works.
Make sure you have the correct knowledge so that you can use it with as little anxiety as possible.
Why you don't need to remove your menstrual cup when you poop
A woman's body has an anus for defecation and a vagina where a menstrual cup is inserted.
These two are in completely separate locations, so when you defecate, the poop won't get directly on the menstrual cup.
This means you can defecate while wearing the menstrual cup.
However, because the large intestine and vagina, through which stool passes, are close to each other, the menstrual cup may be pushed out when you strain to have a bowel movement or when stool descends into the anus as a result of straining.
If you feel like the menstrual cup is about to come out when straining, we recommend removing it, having a bowel movement, and then reinserting it.
Also worth reading: Can I use the toilet (defecate/urinate) with a menstrual cup in place?
Also worth reading: Questions about menstrual cups from obstetrician-gynecologist Kanako Inaba
Why menstrual cups don't go too far (into the uterus)
At the back of the vagina is a narrow opening called the cervix.
This is the part that connects to the uterus and is only about 2 to 3 mm in diameter.
On the other hand, a menstrual cup has a diameter of about 40mm, so it is physically impossible for it to enter the uterus.
However, when you are not used to using a menstrual cup, you may find it difficult to find the stem (the part that you pull) at the bottom of the cup or to remove it.
To remove the menstrual cup, first apply pressure to your lower abdomen, and the menstrual cup will descend to near the entrance of your vagina.
Then, relax your lower abdomen, grab the stem, and while still relaxing your lower abdomen, slowly pull the stem to remove the menstrual cup.
Also worth reading: Questions about menstrual cups from obstetrician-gynecologist Kanako Inaba
Also read: How to remove a menstrual cup
Why menstrual blood collected in a menstrual cup doesn't flow back when you sleep
Due to the structure of the body, it is highly unlikely that menstrual blood will flow back into the body once it has left.
Therefore, there is no need to worry excessively about reflux while you sleep.
However, if the menstrual cup is the wrong size or is not fitted correctly, it may leak.
Before going to bed, it's important to check that the cup is fully open and in the correct position.
Also worth reading: Will using a menstrual cup while sleeping cause reflux? 4 tips to prevent leaks while sleeping!
What to consider if your menstrual cup falls out or leaks
If you feel like your menstrual cup is slipping out or if you experience frequent menstrual leakage, it may be due to the following:
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The cup is not open inside the vagina
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Your menstrual flow exceeds the capacity of the cup
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The cup is not fitted properly
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The cup size is not right
Check if any of the following reasons apply to you and take the appropriate measures.
The cup is not open inside the vagina
If the menstrual cup does not open properly inside the vagina, it will not be able to perform its intended function of collecting menstrual blood, making it more likely to leak.
Before use, menstrual cups must be folded and then inserted into the vagina to open the cup, so many women worry about whether they have opened properly if they are not used to it.
If you're worried, you can get a better feel for it by pinching the bottom of the menstrual cup after putting it in or running your finger along the edge of the cup to make sure it's rounded .
Your menstrual flow exceeds the capacity of the cup
If you have a heavy menstrual flow or if the flow increases on the second day of your period, the menstrual cup may overflow and exceed its capacity.
It may be difficult to know your menstrual flow and when to change your diaper, especially if you're not used to it. In that case, we recommend the following measures.
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Remove the cup every 1-2 hours
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Use with a napkin to prevent leaks
The key to comfortable use is to choose a cup size that suits your menstrual flow and change it frequently.
The cup is not fitted properly
If your menstrual cup falls out or leaks, one of the possible causes is that it is not inserted properly. Some signs of this include:
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The stem is outside the vagina
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Feeling uncomfortable when wearing
If you notice any of these symptoms, try putting them back on.
When worn correctly, the cup will fit snugly against the vaginal wall and remain stable, and the stem will not protrude outside the vagina or cause any discomfort.
If the cup still falls out or leaks menstrual blood every time, it may be that the cup size is not right or you need to try different insertion methods.
Also worth reading: Do menstrual cups leak? Tips and tricks to prevent leaks, and how to use them comfortably
The cup size is not right
If the menstrual cup is too small, it may slip out easily or leak blood.
When using a menstrual cup for the first time, some people choose a smaller size because they are worried that it might not fit.
However, if it does not fit the shape of your vagina or if you have a heavy menstrual flow, you are more likely to experience problems such as slipping out or leaking menstrual blood after a short period of time.
Therefore, if you are using a menstrual cup for the first time, we recommend a slim, long menstrual cup equivalent to a medium size, taking into consideration ease of insertion.
Once you get used to using a menstrual cup, you may want to consider changing the size to suit your menstrual flow and comfort.
Correct insertion and placement of the menstrual cup
Learn how to insert a menstrual cup and the ideal positioning for it. Learn the right information for comfortable use.
1. Hand washing and preparation
Always wash your hands with soap before using a menstrual cup, as this is an important step to prevent bacteria from entering your vagina.
Be sure to sterilize your menstrual cup by boiling it, especially at the beginning and end of your period, or when using it for the first time in a while.
Until you get used to using it, we recommend wearing it in the bathroom, where it's easier to clean up if something spills.
2. How to fold the cup
Menstrual cups are folded before insertion to make them easier to insert into the vagina.
Finding the folding method that suits you will make it easier to put on, so it's a good idea to try out a few different methods.
The murmo menstrual cup has an "easy line" that makes it easier to insert. To take advantage of this design, we recommend folding it in the following way.
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C-fold
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Easy extrusion (punch down)
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"No" character roll
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Labia fold
Once folded, make sure to hold it with the tip facing up.
Also worth reading: 5 ways to fold your menstrual cup for easy opening and insertion
3. Relax and put it on slowly
Once the cup is ready, slowly insert it into your vagina. If you are tense, it will be difficult to insert, so take a deep breath and relax.
For beginners, we recommend the following posture:
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Squatting position (slightly bent waist and slightly bent knees)
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Lifting one leg (placing one foot on the edge of the toilet or bathtub)
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Squatting position (squatting deeply with both legs apart)
In any position, spreading your legs wide will make insertion easier. This is similar to the sensation you get when inserting a tampon.
4. Location confirmation
Once you've inserted your menstrual cup, check that it's properly opened and positioned inside your vagina.
If the bottom part is round and bulging and is firmly attached to the vaginal wall, it is a sign that it has opened properly .
If the bottom is flat or misshapen, it may not be fully open yet.
In this case, try gently turning the stem or moving it up and down, and the cup will open more easily naturally.
If you experience discomfort or pain after inserting the device, it may not be positioned correctly. Try adjusting the position slightly or reinserting it.
Frequently asked questions about how menstrual cups work
We answer some common questions about how menstrual cups work.
If you understand how it works more deeply, you will be able to use it with less anxiety and more confidence.
I understand that it won't go too deep, but is it possible that it will become impossible to remove from the vagina?
If the menstrual cup is placed too far inside the vagina, the stem may become slippery and difficult to grip, or you may lose track of the stem itself, making it difficult to remove.
First, stay calm and imagine that you are trying to push it out of your vagina by putting pressure on your stomach. After that, try relaxing the area around your vagina and pulling it out.
If you are unable to remove it, please visit a gynecologist who will be able to help you immediately.
Will the menstrual cup fall out even if I move vigorously during sports or other activities?
Even during sports and activities, the cups are unlikely to fall out if they are worn in the correct position.
If you feel like the cup is coming out when you move your body, it may be because it was inserted too shallowly or the cup size is not suitable for your body.
Also read: How to Use a Menstrual Cup: How Far Should You Insert It?
summary
Menstrual cups are designed to fit snugly against the vaginal wall and remain inside the vagina, collecting menstrual blood. If used correctly, there is less need to worry about menstrual blood leaking while sleeping or playing sports.
Use this article to understand the precautions to take when using a menstrual cup and make your menstrual cup debut without any worries.
If you're using a menstrual cup for the first time, we recommend the Murmo. Folding can be tricky for beginners, but the "Easy Line" makes it easy.
We also offer a clean pot that allows for easy cleaning, which is essential for safe use of menstrual cups . Please take this opportunity to consider it.
