Best Ways to Fold a Menstrual Cup for Easy Insertion
This post contains affiliate links which means if you make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you!
I recently discovered there were reusable menstrual products beyond just period underwear. I was thrilled at the idea of not spending a fortune on disposables (which, let’s be honest, weren’t even working that well for me anymore – but that’s a whole other story) and switching to a more sustainable option. The first reusable product I learned about was menstrual cups, followed by discs, and even reusable pads.
I was pretty sure I wanted to try a cup, but the first thing I did was seek feedback from our ‘Sauk County Mom Community’ Facebook group members. Some suggested that a cup didn’t work for them and they preferred discs. Now I had a decision to make!
After reading some articles comparing the two, I stumbled upon the “DIVA™ Disc and Cup Bundle” and it felt like a no-brainer! If you’re interested too, you can use my special code ‘Melanie15’ to receive 15% off select collections!
Once my new goodies arrived (who knew you could be so excited about period products?), I started researching all the ins and outs of how to use a period cup to ensure I was fully prepared for my next menstrual cycle.
One of the key aspects of using a menstrual cup successfully is mastering the fold that works best for you. There is a great video by Kim Rosas at Period Nirvana where she goes over various folding methods and shows you how to fold using an actual cup.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the more common menstrual cup folds, offering step-by-step instructions to help you get started.
Whether it’s your first time or you are looking to try a new folding method, these detailed descriptions will ensure you can use your menstrual cup comfortably and confidently.
Most Common Menstrual Cup Folds
C-Fold (U-Fold)
This is the simplest and most basic menstrual cup fold. This is what I tried first but I was having problems with the cup opening up before it was fully inside.
Instructions:
- Hold the menstrual cup with both hands.
- Press the sides of the cup together to flatten it.
- Fold the cup in half to form a C shape.
- Insert the folded cup into the vaginal canal, allowing it to open up inside.
Punch-Down Fold
They say this is the best fold for beginners as the punch down fold creates a smaller insertion point (Period Nirvana, 2020).
Instructions:
- Hold the menstrual cup in one hand.
- Use your index finger to push down one side of the rim towards the base of the cup (Verywell Health, 2022).
- Continue pushing down until the rim is compressed into the cup, forming a small point.
- Insert the pointed end into the vagina, allowing the cup to pop open inside.
7-Fold
This fold also creates a smaller insertion point.
Instructions:
- Hold the menstrual cup with both hands.
- Flatten the cup by pressing the sides together.
- Fold one corner of the cup down diagonally to the opposite side, forming a 7 shape (Verywell Health, 2022).
- Insert the pointed end into the vagina, allowing the cup to open up inside.
Triangle Fold
The triangle fold is very similar to the 7-fold. You can see a picture comparison on Period Nirvana.
Instructions:
- Hold the menstrual cup with both hands.
- Flatten the cup by pressing the sides together.
- Fold one corner of the rim down to the base of the cup, forming a triangle shape.
- Insert the pointed end into the vagina, allowing the cup to open up inside.
Other Types of Folds
There are many different types of menstrual cup folds to learn about including:
- Labia fold
- Origami fold
- Diamond fold
- S fold
- E fold
Tips for Menstrual Cup Insertion
- When you’re ready to insert the menstrual cup, just relax and find a comfortable position (sitting, squatting, or standing with one leg up on the toilet seat). Personally, I started with the one-leg-up method and found it most comfortable while I was learning, but as I got used to the cup, just standing is easy.
- Use warm water or a water-based lubricant if needed.
- Gently insert the folded cup as you would a tampon and let it pop open inside.
- I then rub my finger around the ring to make sure it’s opened all around, otherwise you could experience leaking.
Why Folding Techniques Matter
Mastering different menstrual cup folding methods for your period cup is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, the fold you choose directly affects the ease of insertion. A well-executed fold can make the insertion process smoother, more comfortable, and less intimidating, especially for beginners. Different folds create varying shapes and sizes, helping you find the best fit for your body (Period Nirvana, 2020).
Additionally, the right menstrual cup folding method can ensure a proper seal once the cup is inserted. A secure seal is essential to prevent leaks and ensure the cup stays in place throughout the day. Each fold creates a different opening method, which can help the cup pop open more efficiently inside the vagina, forming a reliable seal against the vaginal walls.
Understanding and practicing different ways to fold allows you to adapt to your body’s needs and preferences. It empowers you to handle your menstrual cup with confidence and ensures a comfortable, leak-free experience during your period (Period Nirvana, 2020).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Difficulty Inserting the Cup
Issue: Many first-time users find it challenging to insert the cup properly.
Solutions:
- Relax: Take deep breaths and try to relax your pelvic muscles.
- Use Lubricant: This is not necessary but may help. Applying a water-based lubricant to the rim of the cup can make insertion easier.
- Try a New Fold: Experiment with different folding techniques to find the one that works best for you.
- Angle and Position: Insert the cup at a 45-degree angle towards your tailbone rather than straight up (Diva, 2022).
Leaking
Issue: The cup leaks, causing discomfort and mess.
Solutions:
- Proper Placement: Ensure the cup is fully opened and creating a seal against your vaginal walls. In ‘A Beginner’s Guide to the Diva Cup‘, they give the tip to rotate it 360 degrees to create a seal.
- Check Capacity: If the cup overflows, it might be due to heavy flow. Consider emptying it more frequently or using a larger capacity cup.
- Position Adjustment: Sometimes, repositioning the cup higher or lower can help prevent leaks.
Difficulty Removing the Cup
Issue: For some people, removing the cup can be tricky and sometimes painful.
Solutions:
- Relax Again: Stay calm and bear down slightly to push the cup lower (Diva, 2022).
- Break the Seal: Pinch the base of the cup to break the seal before pulling it out (Diva, 2022).
- Wiggle and Tilt: Gently wiggle the cup from side to side while pulling it out.
Cup Stuck
Issue: The cup feels stuck and won’t come out.
Solutions:
- Remain Calm: The cup cannot actually go past your cervix and panicking can make your muscles tense up, making removal more difficult. Be sure to pinch the base and try wiggling the cup (Healthline, 2022).
- Squat or Sit: Changing your position by squatting or sitting on the toilet can help.
- Seek Help: If you’re unable to remove it, seek assistance from a healthcare professional.
Cup Causing Discomfort or Pain
Issue: The cup feels uncomfortable or painful.
Solutions:
- Check Size and Shape: Ensure you’re using the right size and shape of the cup for your body. Different brands offer various options including high cervix and low cervix cups.
- Insert Correctly: Make sure the cup is not inserted too high or too low.
- Trim the Stem of the Cup: If the stem causes discomfort, trim it to a comfortable length.
- Remove and Reinsert: Sometimes reinserting the cup can help get it in the right place and alleviate discomfort.
My Personal Experience with Folding my Diva Cup
On the first day I tried using my new Diva cup, I started with the C-fold but noticed discomfort when I walked and moved around. It turned out the stem was poking me. I tried inserting the cup further since I had read that the stem shouldn’t be sticking out, but it felt like there was nowhere else for it to go (if you know what I mean, lol).
I then tried the punch-down fold, which fit better for the rest of the day, but by evening, I knew it still wasn’t quite right. I emailed the Diva support team, and they suggested flipping the cup inside out. They did caution that without the stem, removal might be harder, so they advised not to insert it more than half an inch.
I was so thankful for this tip because it made all the difference! I no longer feel any discomfort, and it’s still super easy to grab and remove. Not having to think about tampons has already been a huge benefit! I can’t wait to continue learning more about these products and helping other women discover them!
By the way, I even went to parent-tot swim class the first evening of wearing the Diva cup and felt super confident in its ability—I had zero issues.
Mastering the fold that works best for you is key to a comfortable and leak-free experience with a menstrual cup. Don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right—practice makes perfect! Each person is different, and what works for one might not work for another. There’s also a ton of articles and videos with people sharing their tips and experiences, and in my experience with the Diva brand, the company themselves are happy to troubleshoot with you via email or phone.
Switching to a menstrual cup can be a liberating and empowering choice, offering comfort, sustainability, and cost savings, even while you’re sleeping. If you’re new to menstrual cups or looking to improve your experience, these folding techniques and the resources linked are a great place to start.
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts! Let me know what questions you have in the comments.
References:
- Diva. (2022). A Beginner’s Guide to the Diva Cup.
- Verywell Health. (2022). How to Use a Menstrual Cup: Insertion, Removal and Cleaning.
- Healthline. (2022). How to Safely Remove a Menstrual Cup.
- Period Nirvana. (2020). Menstrual Cup Folds + Tips for Getting Your Cup to Open.
