First Menstrual Cup Experience | Please Help!
Hello! I long awaited the day I would be able to use a menstrual cup, as they are better for the environment than single-use period products, and that they are able to help with cramping, which I experience lots of.
I generally have a heavy flow (I soak an overnight pad in about 2-4 hours), but it can be lighter or heavier than usual. I purchased a Saalt Soft in Small as I have no idea the height of my cervix. I am currently 20, and I have never had penetrative sex. I have successfully inserted tampons very easily in the past (typically a Super).
After purchasing my first cup, I long awaited my next period to be able to try it. This was the first time I have EVER been excited to have my cycle!
On the first day, I found that the sevenfold method was easiest for me to get my cup in. I was able to insert it and feel around to make sure there were no folds. It felt way too high, being as I had to insert my entire finger (down to my knuckle) in order to feel around the bottom of the cup. I just let it be since I wasn’t sure if that was typical. I had excruciating cramps soon after, and figured that the cup may have been touching my cervix. I removed it, and decided I would try again the next day.
For my second day, I inserted it again, using the push-down method, trying to aim lower. It still ended up sliding up into my vagina, making the removal process even more difficult than the last. I had to get in the shower, and slide my entire finger along the side of the cup, pushing down to break the seal. I had to try to slide my finger against my vaginal wall to pull the cup out. I experienced no leaks every time I inserted/removed. Maybe my cervix is high? I’m not sure. It is petrifying for it to take 20+ minutes to remove something out of your vagina, though.
Do I need to size up? Do I need a different cup?
I really want to use a menstrual cup, but it’s hard not to feel defeated after unsuccessful attempts.
Thank you for reading!
Hello There!
Congrats on switching to a menstrual cup! …and for removing it after it migrated high! This scenario can make people run from using cups if they don’t know better.
Anyhow, if you had to insert your entire finger in before reaching the base of the cup, I’d say you have a high cervix. At least, during that time.
Our cervix moves throughout our cycle. It’s at its highest position at the peak of ovulation. Sometimes so high that it’s out of reach. It starts to move down lower right before menstruation and then moves back up around the middle to the end to start over again.
Some people notice this change and others don’t. In any case, I would suggest getting a longer cup. Not necessarily a large-size.
“V”-shaped cups are easier to reach for individuals with a medium to a high cervix. Even if a “V”-shaped cup has a short stem, the body is longer and the base will still be easier to reach.
If you’re more comfortable with a narrower cup, you can check out the Diva Cup model 0 or 1. They are the same length as the largest Diva Cup, but the diameter is narrower with both. The Casco Cup small and large (not mini) are the same length as well, with different diameters.
A narrower cup might also ease some extra pressure and help relieve cramps.
I know you’re frustrated but I wouldn’t call your experience totally unsuccessful. You were able to insert the cup and even more impressive, remove it after finding out it moved so high. You also figured out that you likely have a medium to a high cervix and may find it easier to use a cup with some length.
Good Luck! <3
Red Herring
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