Inserting Your Menstrual Cup Wrong Can Be Dangerous—Here’s How to Use One Correctly

Why Menstrual Cup Safety Matters

Menstrual cups have become a popular, eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. They’re reusable, cost-effective, and can last for years. However, a recent medical case serves as an important reminder: using a menstrual cup incorrectly can be harmful.

A report published in BMJ described a Danish woman in her 30s who suffered from abdominal pain and blood in her urine for months. Doctors discovered that her menstrual cup had been inserted in a way that compressed her ureter—the tube that drains urine from the kidney to the bladder. When she stopped using the cup, her symptoms disappeared within a month.

This rare case highlights why correct placement and cup size selection are crucial for comfort and safety.

What Happens When a Cup Is Misplaced

According to urologist Clara Maarup Prip, the CT scan revealed that the woman’s cup was pressing against the ureter opening, obstructing urine flow from one kidney to the bladder. The result: inflammation, pain, and traces of blood in the urine.

While such cases are extremely rare, experts emphasize that the position, size, and individual anatomy all play a role in how safe and effective a menstrual cup will be.

OB/GYN Dr. Jillian LoPiano notes that only a handful of such complications have been reported. Most users never experience problems—when the cup is used correctly.

What Is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a small, flexible, bell-shaped device made of medical-grade silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Instead of absorbing menstrual blood like tampons or pads, it collects it.

Users insert the cup into the vaginal canal, where it forms a gentle seal to prevent leaks. The cup can stay in place for up to 12 hours, after which it should be removed, emptied, washed, and reinserted.

Reusable menstrual cups can last up to 10 years, making them a sustainable choice for long-term menstrual care. Disposable options are also available for those who prefer single use.

How Common Are Menstrual Cups?

Research shows menstrual cups are gaining popularity:

Around 19% of menstruating people worldwide use them, particularly in their 20s and 30s.
In the U.S., usage is about 10%, while in other countries, rates vary from 7% in Turkey to 23% among Brazilian university students.

Despite growing adoption, menstrual cups are less common than pads or tampons, mainly due to learning curves, cultural preferences, and convenience factors.

Pros and Cons of Using a Menstrual Cup

Benefits

Eco-friendly: Reduces waste compared to disposable products.
Cost-effective: One reusable cup can last years.
Convenient: Can be worn for up to 12 hours.
Leak-resistant: Proper suction prevents spills during daily activities.

Drawbacks

Cleaning challenges: Cups must be washed thoroughly between uses with clean water and mild soap—difficult in public restrooms.
Learning curve: It can take a few cycles to get comfortable with insertion and removal.
Not suitable for everyone: Those with an IUD should consult a doctor, as removal suction could dislodge it.
Possible irritation or infection: Poor hygiene or incorrect placement can lead to discomfort or, rarely, infection.

How To Insert a Menstrual Cup Correctly

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Before handling the cup, wash your hands with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria into the vaginal canal.

Step 2: Fold the Cup

Fold the cup to make insertion easier. Common techniques include:

C-Fold: Fold the cup in half to form a “C” shape.
7-Fold: Flatten and fold one top corner diagonally to form a “7”.
Punch-Down Fold: Push one side of the rim inward to make a smaller point.

Try different folds to find what feels most comfortable for your anatomy.

Step 3: Insert the Cup

Sit or squat in a comfortable position.
Gently insert the folded cup into your vagina, aiming it toward your tailbone, not straight up.
The cup should sit below your cervix and lower than a tampon, but still entirely inside your body.
Once inside, let it unfold—it will create a gentle suction seal against the vaginal walls.

You can check placement by running a finger around the cup to ensure it’s fully opened.

Step 4: Check the Stem

Most cups have a small stem at the base to help with removal. The stem should rest just inside the vaginal opening—not sticking out or causing discomfort.

If you feel pain, pressure, or awareness of the cup, it may be inserted too high or at an angle.

Step 5: Remove the Cup Safely

When it’s time to empty the cup (typically every 8–12 hours):

Wash your hands.
Pinch the base of the cup to release the suction seal.
Gently pull it out, keeping it upright to avoid spills.
Empty the contents into the toilet or sink.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and mild, unscented soap before reinserting.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your menstrual cup clean is essential for preventing bacterial buildup.

Tips:

Use mild, fragrance-free soap or a special cup cleanser.
Always rinse with clean water—avoid harsh detergents or boiling while the cup is in water longer than needed.
At the end of each cycle, sterilize the cup by boiling it for 3–5 minutes, then store it in a breathable pouch.

When To Avoid or Be Cautious

You should talk to your doctor before using a menstrual cup if you:

Have an IUD (in rare cases, removal suction could affect placement).
Experience pelvic pain, infections, or irritation.
Recently gave birth or had surgery.
Have urinary or vaginal abnormalities that affect fit.

While menstrual cup-related complications are rare, they can include:

Pain or discomfort due to incorrect size or placement
Infections from poor hygiene
Urinary issues from pressure on the bladder or ureter
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS), though the risk is much lower than with tampons

Choosing the Right Cup for You

Selecting the correct size and shape is key for safety and comfort.

Small/medium cups: Usually recommended for those under 30 who haven’t given birth vaginally.
Large cups: Better for those over 30 or who’ve had children.
Soft cups: Suitable for sensitive users; firm cups are better for those with stronger pelvic floor muscles.

If you’re unsure which model to buy, ask your OB/GYN for recommendations based on your anatomy.

When To See a Doctor

Stop using your menstrual cup and contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

Persistent pain, cramping, or urinary discomfort
Blood in urine or pain in your lower back or side
Inability to remove the cup
Fever, dizziness, or nausea (signs of infection or TSS)

Prompt medical attention can help prevent complications.

A Quick Review

Menstrual cups are safe and sustainable when used correctly. However, incorrect placement—especially pressing against the urinary tract—can cause pain or rare complications like urinary blockage.

To stay safe: