Should I ask my OB-GYN for help?
I’m having trouble inserting my cup. I’ve tried everything, but I can’t seem to get it right. I feel like if I try any further I might end up hurting myself. Would it be reasonable to ask my OB-GYN to help me put the cup in the first time? Not during my period obviously, but before, as a dry run (no pun intended)?
Hello There!
I’m sorry that you’re having some trouble inserting your menstrual cup. I know that it can be very frustrating. Hopefully, I can shed some light on what might help you get it inserted or why it might not be working for you.
First, below is a link to detailed step by step instructions including different folds, angle to insert the cup, creating a seal, checking the position. etc. The video (part #2) might be a great help to see what should be going on.
How to Insert & Remove a Menstrual Cup
If you’ve tried everything on this page and in the video, chances are that the cup might just be the wrong one for you. Can you tell me which cup you have? If/when you do insert it (even if it doesn’t open) does the length feel comfortable? Can you reach the cup easily?
– Sometimes a cup is too wide to be comfortable while inserting it. Several cups are more narrow than others and might be easier to insert for a new user.
– If a cup is too soft, it may give the user troubles while trying to get it to open. A firmer cup might be the ticket.
– A water-based personal lubricant can make all the difference if you start drying out from all the in & out practicing. However, if you’re feeling swollen or sore, take a break!
Getting assistance from your ob-gyn probably won’t be any help to you thereafter. Even if the ob-gyn knows their way around a cup, they won’t be in a position (body wise) to insert it the way that you would if you were inserting it yourself. Inserting a menstrual cup is something you’re going to have to figure out for your own body.
There is a learning curve, as you’ve probably noticed, but once you get the hang of it, it will become much easier. Practicing (dry runs), could get you prepared but can be much different than when you actually have your period.
1. Our cervix usually drops a bit lower right before our period and stays there for a couple of days. Around day 4-5 or middle to end of our period, our cervix starts to move higher to get into position for ovulation. At the height of ovulation, our cervix is at it’s highest point and can be hard to reach or even so high that it’s out of reach.
2. The blood coating our vaginal canal makes a much easier inserting process. No need for lube until you practice until you’re dry ? – LUBE! ?
Again, the cup just might not be the one for you.
Check out the page and video that I’ve linked. I hope that they help. If you have further questions, feel free to reply here ?
Good Luck and I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you! <3
