First-time user guide · 6 min read
Your first menstrual cup: a calm, complete guide
If you’ve never used a cup before, this is the only page you need to read first. Breathe. It’s far simpler than it looks.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup made of soft medical-grade silicone. You fold it, insert it, and it gently unfolds to sit low in the vaginal canal, collecting your flow rather than absorbing it. One cup can last for years — replacing thousands of pads or tampons.
Because it collects rather than absorbs, a cup doesn't dry you out, doesn't leave fibres behind, and can be worn for up to 12 hours — which means many people barely think about their period at all while wearing one.
Inserting it, step by step
Wash your hands and relax — tension is the only thing that makes this tricky.
Fold the cup into a C or punch-down fold so the rim is small and smooth.
Sitting or squatting, insert it low and angled toward your tailbone.
Let go — it springs open. A gentle twist confirms the seal is set.
If it's uncomfortable, it isn't in far enough or low enough yet. A correctly placed cup is something you simply shouldn't feel.
Removing it without stress
Wash your hands, relax, and gently bear down as if going to the toilet. Pinch the base of the cup to release the seal — never pull on the stem alone — then ease it out, empty, rinse, and reinsert. Over a full day, most people only need to do this morning and night.
Ready when you are.
The SheThrives cup is launching soon. Have a look, or get notified the day it's live.
Common first-timer questions
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