Problems opening cup in middle of period
I am pretty new to using menstrual cups. This is my third period attempting to use them. I have a really high cervix normally, but during parts of my period it drops to be really low. During my first period, I tried the Lily Cup (because of the high cervix). It worked really well the first 2 days and I had no problems with insertion other than some fiddling during the first insertion. On the 3rd day, my cervix dropped really low and the cup was very uncomfortable. For the next two periods I tried the Lily Cup Compact and the MeLuna (can’t remember the size but its the one made for a short cervix but it is firmer than the Lily Compact). Both times I have had the same problem: no issues with insertion and opening the cup the first two days, but on the 3rd day I cannot get the cup to open using any fold I have tried (c fold, 7 fold, punchdown). With all three folds the cup ends up inserted and in a c fold position and will not pop open. My vagina also feels much tighter on the 3rd day and insertion isn’t as comfortable or easy. I thought it might be cervix position related, but during this latest period when I was having the issue, my cervix was still really high at the time and not low like with the 1st and 2nd periods. Anyone have any suggestions for me? I really like using a cup and would like to figure this out so I don’t have to switch to tampons for the end of my cycle. 🙁
Hi Rhia!
According to fertility specialists, our cervix is always on the move through our cycle :O
At the height of ovulation, the cervix softens and blends in with the vaginal walls. It also rises. Sometimes so high that a person might not be able to reach it.
The cervix then starts to transition into the next stage becoming more firm once again as well as dropping into a lower position. This can happen quickly or may take hours, or days!
When a period starts, the cervix is normally at it’s lowest point. However, you can start bleeding while your cervix is still in transition from the last stage. Which will mean that it will be at its lowest point “soon”.
When your period slows and is ending, and the cycle starts again, the cervix starts its move back up.
So…that being said, sometimes going from one extreme length cup to another (Lily to MeLuna shortie) might be throwing you off.
I experience kind of the same as you do with certain cups not feeling as comfortable or “fitting” on certain days than others.
I find that on days 1 to sometimes day 4, my cervix is lower than on day 5+. On those first few days, I find a particular cup more comfortable and easier to insert. After my cervix starts moving back up, I’m able to fit almost any cup comfortably but I prefer a longer cup for an easier reach.
I would suggest getting an “average” sized large cup. Something not too long and something not too short. Either a “V”-shaped cup or a “bell”-shaped cup with a regular style rim. I would also try a medium/firm cup with a good rim to help the cup open.
Since you were able to use the Lily Cup, you’re most likely able to use any large size cup on the market. Here are some suggestions of cups to look into:
“V” shapes:
Yuuki “Soft” – Although I specified “soft” version, this cups firmness is more equal to a medium firmness compared to other cups on the market. If you have a heavier period, this cup has a slightly higher capacity than other “average” cups.
OrganiCup (large) – This cup probably has the smallest capacity out of the bunch and is also the shortest. The rim on this cup is quite firm. If I had to give it a number score of 1-5, 5 being the firmest, I would give it a 4-4.5. Again, that’s for the rim. The body of the cup would be around a 3.
Monthly Cup (large or plus size) – If you’re worried about firmer bodied cups, the Monthly Cup might be a good option. The body is nice and soft (at about a 2), but the rim is still nice a “poppy” to help this cup to open.
The only “bell”-shaped cup that I would suggest for your situation, is the LaliCup. They offer three sizes, but the medium or large would be the two that I would check out.
This cup has a unique channel pattern on the body that helps this cup to fold up easier and smaller while also helping the cup to open when pressure is released. The medium size LaliCup holds slightly less than the Yuuki large but doesn’t have the length in the body. The large LaliCup holds 40ml.
I would normally suggest someone to try turning their cup inside out and see if that feels and “fits” more comfortably, but it’s not really possible with the cups that you currently own.
I hope that this kind of gives you some insight into what’s going on with your cervix/body. Hopefully, you can find a cup that suits you. Sometimes less is more!
Good Luck! <3
