Menstrual cups have become an increasingly popular choice for us women in the Philippines looking for a sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable alternative to traditional pads and tampons. However, if you’re new to menstrual cups, the idea of using one can seem a bit intimidating. I know, I’ve been there 😉
But don’t worry—our full guide on using a menstrual cup will walk you through each step, from selecting the right cup to proper insertion, removal, and cleaning. Let’s make your menstrual experience easier and more eco-friendly! 🙂 
What is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup made of medical-grade silicone, rubber, or elastomer that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. Unlike pads or tampons, a menstrual cup doesn’t absorb the flow; instead, it collects it, offering up to 8-12 hours of protection (depending on how heavy your flow is).
Why Choose a Menstrual Cup?
Menstrual cups offer numerous benefits:
• Eco-Friendly: Reusable for up to 10 years, significantly reducing waste and the need to purchase period products every month.
• Cost-Effective: A one-time purchase that can save you money in the long run. It looks expensive upfront but it is a one-time investment that will save you thousands of pesos considering the number of years you can use it.
• Comfortable: When inserted correctly, you won’t even feel it. You can go ahead with your usual daily chores, work, and hobbies (may it be swimming, running, biking hiking etc.).
• Healthier: Made from safe, non-toxic materials, reducing the risk of infections and TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Menstrual Cup
1. Choosing the Right Cup
• Size Matters: Menstrual cups come in different sizes. Consider your age, cervix height, and whether you’ve given birth vaginally when selecting your cup.
• Material and Firmness: Softer cups are great for beginners as it is less intimidating, but firmer cups might be easier to pop open inside the vagina and is best used for athletes. Haliya Cup Menstrual Cup is in average firm, not too soft and not too firm to cater for both types of users.
2. Preparing Your Cup
• Sterilize: Before first use, sterilize your cup with either one of these methods: Boiling, Microwave, Hot water.
Boiling: Put the cup in boiling water for 5-8 minutes. Make sure the cup doesn’t touch the bottom of the pot. You can use a whisk (insert the cup inside), a normal strainer, or any ladle that can keep the cup away from the bottom of the pot.
Microwave: Add water to your sterilizer container/cup, or the usual bowl, or mug that fits your menstrual cup, Close the lid (applicable to our sterilizer cup), then microwave for 1.5-2mins
Hot Water: Put the cup in your sterilizer container/cup, or the usual bowl, or mug that fits your menstrual cup, Add hot water and let it sit for 3-5mins. (Repeat this 2-3x).
3. Identify which Menstrual Cup Fold do you prefer to use. Below are the 3 most commonly used folds for beginners.
• C-Fold: Fold the cup in half to create a C-shape.
• Punch-Down Fold: Push one side of the rim down to create a smaller point. **recommended
• 7-Fold: Fold the cup to form a number 7 shape.
4. Inserting the Cup
• Relax and Get Comfortable: Sit on the toilet, squat, or stand with one leg elevated.
• Insert: Hold the folded cup and gently insert it into your vagina, aiming it toward your tailbone (pushing it not upward or ho
• Let it Pop Open: Once inside, the cup will open up and create a seal to prevent leaks.
If you want to make adjustments or if you feel like there is a dent somewhere, then pinch the base of the cup and while pinching adjust the cup’s position.
5. Wearing the Cup
• Check the Seal: Run your finger around the base of the cup to ensure it has fully opened.
• Comfort Check: You shouldn’t feel any discomfort. If you do, try adjusting the position of the cup.
6. Removing the Cup
• Relax: Relax your pelvic muscles and gently pull on the stem until you can reach the base.
• Pinch and Remove: Pinch the base of the cup to break the seal and slowly wiggle it out.
7. Cleaning the Cup
• Rinse and Reinsert: Rinse the cup with clean water and reinsert it. After your period, sterilize it again before storing it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Leaks: Make sure the cup is fully open and sealed. Remove and reinsert.
• Difficulty Removing: Relax and bear down with your pelvic muscles to bring the cup lower (if you can’t feel the cup), making it easier to reach. Use the ring or stem of the cup to locate, not pull during removal. In removing, pinch the base of the cup with your index finger and thumb then slowly remove (still pinching).
Switching to a menstrual cup might seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. With the proper guidance and a bit of practice, using a menstrual cup can be a breeze. Watch our detailed video guide to see each step in action, and join the growing community of Filipino women who are embracing a healthier, more sustainable way to manage their periods.