Removing a Menstrual Cup Shouldn’t Be Painful—Here’s How to Do It Right

So, you’ve mastered inserting your menstrual cup, but when it’s time to take it out, things feel a little tricky? Maybe it feels stuck, or you’re worried about pain. Don’t worry—you’re not alone!

Removing a menstrual cup should be smooth, painless, and stress-free. With the right technique and a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time. Let’s go over everything you need to know to remove your cup without discomfort.

1. Relax—It Makes Everything Easier

If you’re tensed up, your vaginal muscles tighten, making removal harder. The key is to stay calm. Take a few deep breaths, find a comfortable position, and remind yourself—it’s not stuck!

Try these positions:

• Squatting: This shortens the vaginal canal, making removal easier.
• Sitting on the toilet: A relaxed, natural position for many people.
• Standing with one leg raised: Prop one foot on a toilet seat or stool.

2. Break the Suction First—Don’t Just Pull

Menstrual cups create a slight suction to stay in place. If you pull without breaking the seal, it can feel uncomfortable. Here’s how to do it right:

• Gently pinch the base of the cup to release the suction.
• If you can’t reach the base, insert a finger along the side and press the rim to break the seal.

Once the suction is gone, the cup will slide out much more easily.

3. Rock, Don’t Yank

Instead of pulling straight down, try a gentle rocking motion. Wiggle the cup from side to side as you slowly remove it. This helps prevent discomfort and makes removal smoother.

4. Take Your Time

Rushing leads to panic, and panic makes everything harder. If you feel stuck, take a break, relax your muscles, and try again in a few minutes. Your cup isn’t going anywhere, and you’ll get it out—promise!

5. Bear Down Like You’re Having a Bowel Movement

If your cup feels too high, engage your pelvic muscles as if you’re passing stool. This helps push the cup lower so you can grip it easily.

6. Keep a Firm Grip

Once you’ve reached the base of the cup, hold it firmly to prevent spills. Tilt it slightly as you remove it to keep everything neat.

7. Empty, Rinse, and Reinsert (or Store)

After removal, empty the cup into the toilet or sink. If you’re reinserting, rinse it with clean water before putting it back in. If your period is over, wash and sterilize it properly before storage.

Common Removal Concerns and Fixes

“What if I can’t reach my cup?”

• Try squatting or bearing down—it will move lower.
• Relax! Tensing up makes it harder to reach.

“It feels stuck!”

• Don’t panic—your cup can’t get lost inside you.
• Use a finger to break the seal before pulling.

“Will it hurt?”

• If you break the suction properly, removal should be painless.
• Go slow, don’t yank, and use a rocking motion.

Final Thoughts

Removing a menstrual cup takes a little practice, but once you get the technique down, it becomes second nature. Relax, take your time, and follow these steps for a smooth, pain-free experience.

Ready to give it a try? You’ve got this!