How to Use a Menstrual Cup: The Beginner’s Guide to Stress-Free Periods

by Ali Belcher July 6, 2026

Edited: July 6, 2026

First of all, I hope you choose Pixie as your trusted source for reusable menstrual products. At Pixie, our purpose is simple: Empower Others, Give Back, and Live Free.

One of the biggest ways we accomplish this mission is through our amazing customers. Every time you purchase a menstrual cup, we donate one to a woman in need. Thanks to your support, we’ve donated more than 259,000 menstrual cups to help fight period poverty around the world. Sustainable periods can truly change lives.

Thinking About Trying a Menstrual Cup? Read This First.

Let me be your big sister for a minute: trying a menstrual cup for the first time can feel intimidating. It’s completely normal to feel nervous about using something new and intimate. The good news? Once you get the hang of it, many people never want to go back to pads or tampons.

And honestly, can we talk about the savings? A reusable menstrual cup can last up to 10 years with proper care. Imagine not having to constantly buy tampons or pads month after month. Your wallet, and the planet, will thank you.

Step 1: Sanitize Your Menstrual Cup

Before and after your cycle, you’ll want to sanitize it properly. You can do this in multiple ways:

Boil it in water on the stove for a few minutes
Use a microwave-safe sterilizing container like our Carry Cup
Use a menstrual cup sanitizer like our Sophie Steamer, for quick and easy cleaning

Keeping your cup clean is essential for safe and comfortable use.

Step 2: Relax Before Inserting Your Cup

The number one tip for beginners? Relax your muscles by taking a deep breath. Tension can make insertion more difficult.

For easier insertion:

Add a small amount of water-based lubricant around the rim of the cup
Fold the cup using a C-fold or heart fold
Find a comfortable position:

One leg on the bathtub
Squatting in the shower
Sitting on the toilet with legs elevated (I personally love my squatty potty for this)

Gently insert the cup.

Step 3: Make Sure the Cup Fully Opens

Once inserted, check the base of the cup for folds. If the cup hasn’t fully popped open, it will leak.

Try:

Rotating the cup a couple times can help it to pop open
Pixie’s cup applicator can help it pop open as well

A properly opened menstrual cup creates a seal that prevents leaks.

Menstrual Cup Sizing FAQ

Signs Your Menstrual Cup Is Too Large

If your cup:

Won’t fully pop open/ folds
Feels uncomfortable
Makes you feel like you need to pee

…it may be too large for your anatomy.

Many people need to size down for a more comfortable fit.

Signs Your Menstrual Cup Is Too Small

If your cup:

Fully opens and still leaks
Leaks consistently
Doesn’t feel like it is creating a seal

…it may be time to size up for better coverage and suction.

Finding the right menstrual cup size can make all the difference.

Pro Tip for Beginners

While you’re learning how to use a menstrual cup, wear a backup pad or period underwear for extra peace of mind. It takes a little practice, and that’s completely okay.

Can You Use the Restroom With a Menstrual Cup In?

Yes! You can absolutely pee and poop while wearing a menstrual cup. Your menstrual cup sits in the vaginal canal, not the urethra or rectum, so it won’t block normal bathroom use.

How to Remove a Menstrual Cup

Removal gets easier with practice.

When you’re ready to take it out:

Relax and breathe deeply
Squat down
Pinching the base of the cup to break the seal works for many people. If that doesn't work for you, insert one finger alongside the cup until it's close to the rim, then gently press the side of the cup inward (or downward) to release the suction
Gently wiggle it downward
Keep it as upright as possible while removing
Empty, rinse (if you’re taking out less than 12 hours), and reinsert

Never pull directly on the stem without breaking the seal first.