Once you have got your cup into the desired Fold, get yourself comfortable and remember to relax. Sit on the toilet with your legs wide apart, or stand with one foot raised – for example, on the edge of a bathtub or on the toilet. Part the labial lips and slowly insert the cup like you would a tampon. It’s important to note that a cup sits slightly lower than a tampon. You want to angle the Fun Cup back towards your back (tailbone) as opposed to straight upwards. Try to keep hold of the cup whilst you insert it to avoid it popping open too early.

Once you have inserted the cup, it should pop open. To check the cup is positioned correctly, lightly hold the stem of the cup and turn. Use your finger to check around the vaginal opening that the cup has no folds or give it a light tug to make sure it’s secure.

Relax

When using a Menstrual Cup for the first time, choose a time when you can focus without distractions or interruptions. Perhaps after a warm bath when you are relaxed. Insertion and removal should never be painful. If you experience pain at any stage then stop and try again later when you are more relaxed. Be patient, it can take on average 2-3 cycles to fully get used to your Menstrual cup.

Use a Lubricant

A water-based lubricant can help make insertion easier and more comfortable. Simply put a small amount onto your cup or directly onto your vaginal opening, then slip the folded cup inside you.

Experiment

When using a menstrual cup for the first time, take some time to explore the cup and practice different folds. In addition to folds, try out different positions to find one that is the most comfortable for you. Some menstruators stand with one foot raised e.g. on the toilet seat or edge of the bath, some squat and some find insertion easiest lying on the bed.