Why am I having intense pelvic/cramp pain with my menstrual cup?
Hi, I have been using a menstrual cup for several months now. I thought I had gotten the hang of proper insertion, but I have noticed for the last few periods I have had very intense, sporadic pelvic pain, not in my abdomen area but very low back, close to pubic bone. This is not a period symptom I have ever had before and when I take out my cup it relieves the symptoms. It is strongest the first few days of my period. Am I inserting it incorrectly? I have a Saalt cup in the smaller size.
Hello There!
You know, sometimes we’re just more sensitive from one month to the next. I experience the same thing from time to time where one of my “go-to” cups just doesn’t feel as comfortable as it normally does. It’s great to have the option if it’s feasible to purchase a second cup. If you like the way the Saalt Cup fits, you can try their soft version to ease some pressure.
BUT, I’m getting ahead of myself.
– Check if you’re inserting the cup correctly first. Make sure you’re aiming the folded cup down and back towards your tailbone. Our cervix isn’t typically straight up and that can cause some issues.
– If you’ve been inserting the cup all the way in before letting it open, try inserting it halfway before doing so. Often when a cup is inserted all the way before opening, the cervix can get hit by the rim which can cause a release of prostaglandins (you may have experienced this from a pelvic exam, pap smear, vaginal ultrasound, rough penetration of any kind, etc). This in turn can cause cramping. Cramping can include the lower back, hip, thigh, and leg pains.
– If the cup feels too firm during those first few days, you can try turning the cup inside out to see if that eases some of the pressure. Only do this if you’re confident that you can remove the cup without the stem.
If all else fails, I would suggest trying a softer cup. Again, if you like the Saalt Cup, try their soft version.
Good Luck!
Red Herring
@redherringtv
RedHerringTV on YouTube
