Beginners Guide To Menstrual Cups

Menstrual Cups

Menstrual Cups are a reusable alternative to tampons. They are a silicone cup that is worn inside the vagina to collect your period blood rather than absorbing it as a tampon would! Here at The Nappy Gurus, we stock Ruby Period Cups which come in two sizes, small and medium, every body is unique so you will need to find the right size to suit you.

Which size is right for me?

The first thing you will need to consider is your menstrual flow; if you have a light flow you are likely  to be changing your period product a few times during the day and will most likely be using regular tampons or slim pads. If you have a heavier flow you will be changing your period product frequently through the day and also at night, you will be likely using super or plus size tampons or maxi pads.

Next you will need to consider your cervix height; to find your cervix height you will need to insert your longest finger gently into your vagina, you'll find it sitting at the top of your vagina, usually closer to your belly button that your spine. Your cervix will feel like a smooth round, raised circle with a dimple in the middle - a bit like the tip of your nose. If your longest finger goes almost all the way into your vagina before it reaches your cervix you have a high cervix, if you find your cervix around the middle knuckle mark you have a low cervix.

How to use a menstrual cup?

To insert a Ruby Cup you will first need to fold it into a C shape, as shown in photo 1, as with tampons you will then need to insert the cup into your vagina tilting it back towards the base of your spine. The cup should sit as low as is comfortable inside your vagina but with the stem fully inside. When the cup is inside it will pop open creating a light suction, this is how leaks are prevented so use your finger to check if it is fully unfolded, twist or rotate if you need to, don't rush and take your time!

A menstrual cup can be used for up to 12 hours, however many people empty in the morning and evening. When it’s time to change your cup, you will need to gently pull the stem of the cup downwards until you can reach and hold the base of the cup. Pinch the base to release the suction and gently remove it. Once you have got your cup empty it into the toilet and rinse with water. Re-insert once it has been rinsed and you're ready to go again!

At the end of your period, your cup must be disinfected before storing each month. Rinse your cup, and heat in a pan or pot of water. Boil for 3 minutes. If you do not want to use a pot for disinfecting, you can use a Ruby Clean for boiling in the microwave or oven. 

Here are our Ruby Cups and Ruby Clean: