You Can’t Get your Menstrual Cup Out? First, Don’t Panic!
If your menstrual cup feels stuck, take a deep breath—it’s not truly “stuck.” Your vaginal canal isn’t a bottomless pit; your cup has nowhere to go. With a little patience and the right technique, you’ll get it out safely.
Let’s walk through the steps to remove your menstrual cup with ease.
Why Does a Menstrual Cup Get Stuck?
Your cup might feel stuck for a few reasons:
- Suction hasn’t been broken: Menstrual cups create a seal to prevent leaks. If you don’t break the suction properly, it can feel difficult to remove.
- It has moved higher up: Sometimes, the cup can shift slightly, especially while sleeping or exercising.
- Tension and stress: The more you stress, the tighter your vaginal muscles become, making removal harder.
How to Remove a Stuck Menstrual Cup
1. Relax Your Muscles
The more tense you are, the harder it will be to remove your cup. Breathe deeply and try to relax your pelvic muscles. If needed, take a break and come back to it in a few minutes.
2. Get Into a Comfortable Position
Different positions make it easier to reach your cup. Try:
- Squatting: This shortens your vaginal canal, bringing the cup closer.
- Sitting on the toilet: Helps you relax naturally.
- Propping one leg up (on the bathtub or toilet seat): Gives better access.
3. Bear Down Like You’re Having a Bowel Movement
Engage your core and pelvic muscles as if you’re trying to push something out. This action helps move the cup lower so you can grip it better.
4. Pinch the Base to Break Suction
- Insert clean fingers and feel for the base of the cup (not just the stem).
- Pinch the base gently to release the suction.
- If you can’t reach the base, wiggle the stem side to side until the cup moves lower.
5. Rock It Side to Side While Pulling Gently
Once you break the suction, don’t yank the cup straight down—this can be uncomfortable. Instead:
- Tilt it slightly to release one side first.
- Wiggle it gently from side to side as you pull.
6. Try the Finger Hook Method
If pinching the base isn’t working, you can:
- Insert one finger along the side of the cup.
- Press the rim inward to break the suction.
- Hook your finger around the rim or base and slowly pull it out.
7. Use a Little Water-Based Lubricant
If your cup is dry and not budging, a tiny bit of water-based lubricant can help. Apply some around the rim or base to make removal smoother.
What If You Still Can’t Remove It?
If you’ve tried everything and your cup is still stuck, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
- Take a break and try again later. Let gravity and natural movements shift it lower.
- Try after a warm bath or shower—heat helps relax your muscles.
- Ask for help—if you’re really struggling, a healthcare provider can remove it for you safely.
How to Prevent a Stuck Menstrual Cup in the Future
- Trim the stem if it’s too long—a long stem might make it harder to grip the base.
- Practice breaking the suction before pulling—always pinch the base before removing.
- Use a softer or smaller cup if needed—some cups are firmer and create a stronger suction.
- Try a different folding method when inserting—some folds create a tighter seal than others.
Final Thoughts
A stuck menstrual cup is temporary, and with the right technique, it will come out. Stay calm, use gentle movements, and don’t rush. If you’re new to menstrual cups, practice removing it before your period starts to build confidence.
With time, removing your menstrual cup will become second nature, making your period experience hassle-free and comfortable!