Everything You Need To Know About The Menstrual CupIT

So you're thinking about making the switch from traditional menstrual hygiene products to reusable products, like the CupIT, but have questions? This ones for you because today we are talking about everything you need to know about the CupIT menstrual kit. Use code CUPIT15 at checkout for 15% off throughout June.

Before we begin, we just want to congratulate you on considering reusable options for your time of the month. Not only are they better for you, they’re better for the environment and your pocket. Here at Secret Whispers we also go one step further by donating a cup for every CupIT Kit sold so by purchasing from us you are actually helping to fight period poverty in the UK too. 

What is a menstrual cup?

A menstrual cup is kind of reusable feminine hygiene product. It is a small, flexible cone shaped cup that’s usually made of silicone but can be made of rubber too, that also has a stem at it’s base. You insert the cup into your vagina where it sits and collects your period blood.

Cups like the CupIT can be worn for much longer than traditional options and dependant on flow, for up to 12 hours. They offer brilliant protection and when inserted correctly can give you leak free protection when you sleep, run or swim. 

How does a menstrual cup work? 

A cup works in a similar way to a tampon, but rather than absorbing the blood, it’s collected in the cup. This removes the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome , a rare but severe bacterial infection that’s associated with tampon use.

Once inserted, the cup creates a suction seal against the vaginal wall, meaning leak free, secure protection all day or night.

How to use a menstrual cup

When you first get your menstrual cup, you need to sterilize it to ensure it’s safe to use. You can do this by popping your cup in a pot of boiling water and letting it simmer for 5 minutes. To avoid the cup touching the bottom, you can put the cup into a whisk or into a sieve while you boil the cup. 

When you are ready to insert, make sure your hands are clean and you are somewhere you won't be disturbed. Get into a comfortable position and this might mean your leg is up on the toilet or bed, you're laying down in the butterfly position or you’re just standing. Find what works for you! 

How to insert a menstrual cup 

There are a number of fold techniques that are used to insert a menstrual cup but we’re going to be talking about the main 2, which most people seem to get on well with. 

C or U fold 

1. With clean hands, apply water or some water-based lube to the rim of the cup (trust us when we say it makes your life a whole lot easier).
2. Fold the cup in half, then in half again forming a U shape.
3. With one hand holding the cup folded, insert the cup rim upwards into the vagina as you would a tampon.
4. Once inside, the cup should spring open and form the suction seal. If not, pinch the bottom of the cup and give it a turn and the cup should pop open to form a seal.
5. To check the cup is in correctly, pull very gently on the stem of the cup. There should be resistance meaning the cup has created the seal.

Pushdown fold

Same as the C/U fold but instead of folding into a U shape, push down into the centre of the cup, forming a tip which you can insert into your vagina.

If you like a visual description, then watch Julie show you the fold techniques here.

How to remove a menstrual cup

When it comes time to remove your cup, wash your hands and make sure you are near a toilet or sink.

1. Place your index finger and thumb into your vagina and locate the cup using the stem. NEVER pull your cup out using the stem.
2. Pinch the base of the cup to release the suction. You can also slide a finger up next to the cup towards the rim to release the suction instead.
3. Gently pull the cup downwards on the base to remove. NEVER start pulling the cup unless the suction has been broken.
4. Once the cup is out, pour the contents into the toilet or sink and give the cup a rinse with some cold water (to prevent) and dry off with some toilet paper.

How to clean a menstrual cup

After removal, you should rinse with cold water to prevent staining and your cup is now ready to insert again. If you like you can wash your cup with warm water and some PH neutral soap before you reinsert.

The important thing to remember is that the small holes around the rim need to be clean and unblocked. If necessary a toothpick or old toothbrush can be used to unblock them. These hotels form the suction seal so it’s important they remain clear.

At the end of your cycle, just wash your cup with soap and water as normal and store in your carry bag. You can boil sterilise if you wish but this isn’t necessary.

Secret Whispers Complete Menstrual CupIT Kit

The Secret Whispers Complete Menstrual CupIT Kit includes 1 small and 1 regular cup for the perfect fit (Sky Blue & Soft Pink). The period cups are made from 100% Medical Grade Silicone and designed to last up to 10 years! It also includes 2 Fair Trade, 100% organic cotton drawstring carry bags where you can store your cups when not in use. The hygiene bags the period cups come in are 100% biodegradable - just pop in your local council food waste bin or your home compost bin. The box is made from FSC packaging from responsible sources and the ink is Eco-friendly.

There are full instructions and lifetime customer care support so we can answer any questions you may have. Don’t forget, you can help to fight period poverty in the UK by purchasing the CupIT Menstrual Kit

We hope you enjoyed this blog, why not check out Why we chose The Zinthiya Trust to support them with period poverty or The stress that sanitary wear is having on the environment

Fancy a freebie? Download our FREE guide to holistic period pain remedies 

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