Menstrual cup use: how do you remove your menstrual cup?
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Time to read 7 min
Often, you’ll find very detailed guides on how to use a menstrual cup and how to insert it. However, it’s much rarer to find explanations on how to safely remove your cup. Yet these are steps you need to know and master if you want to use a menstrual cup as your period protection. Worried about this part? Have you already used a cup and struggled to remove it? Discover here the right steps to remove your menstrual cup calmly and safely. Hygiene, leak management, mastering the suction effect—we’ll tell you everything about the cup, this revolutionary little washable and reusable period protection! Goodbye removal stress! Ready to become a cup pro? Let’s go!
In this article:
I. Essential basics for removing a menstrual cup Some explanations 🩸 Get ready properly before removing your cup II. All our tips for removing a menstrual cup The pinch method to break the suction effect Comparison of recommended positions for removing your menstrual cup If your cup is stuck, has moved up, or is out of reach… III. Practical tips for comfortable use Common mistakes to avoid with your menstrual cup In short: removing your cup is easy when you follow the right tips! FAQ: removing a menstrual cup
I. Essential basics for removing a menstrual cup
Some explanations 🩸
The Louloucup menstrual cup—whether it’s the Classic Pink or the Soft Turquoise—fits inside the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Once unfolded against the vaginal walls, this soft and flexible silicone protection stays securely in place. When properly positioned, no air gets through. It’s your vaginal muscles that naturally hold it in place.
To remove it comfortably, release the pressure and create a gentle vacuum by pinching the base.
Spotlight on… The Loulou Cup Turquoise
- Ultra soft and very easy to use: simple to insert and remove,
- Made in France from medical-grade silicone,
- available in two different sizes to fit all menstrual flows (size M and size S),
- a very flexible protection to suit even the most sensitive anatomies,
-
Low price eligible for the custom bundle: the more items you add to your cart, the lower the price per item gets!
- Along with your Turquoise cup, don’t forget a sterilizer and a storage pouch to make life easier!
Get ready to remove your cup properly 🧘🏻♀️
A few important precautions to follow:
Before removing your cup, wash your hands thoroughly with soap, then dry them.
A calm and clean environment helps you avoid any surprises. Make sure you have some time and don’t rush the process.
Take a deep breath. If you’re tense and contracted, your vaginal muscles will be too. Inhale deeply to relax your pelvic floor.
If the stem seems out of reach, exhale slowly: the cup will naturally move down. The muscles in your vagina will naturally push your protection.
"I chose Louloucup for their eco-friendly commitments. I wanted a French-made cup, and I found it! Even the packaging is recyclable, of course. The cup matches the description—it's not too soft, otherwise I get leaks. I'm very satisfied!" Bérénice B.
II. All our tips for removing a menstrual cup
The pinch method to break the suction effect
Pinching the base of the cup is an essential step before removing it. By pinching it, you break the seal on your cup and allow air to flow in again. How do you do it?
Wash your hands before you start.
Locate the stem of your cup with a finger.
Insert a finger to reach the base.
Gently pinch the base to break the suction seal.
Slowly pull down while keeping it pinched.
Once you’ve removed your cup, you can empty it into the toilet and rinse it.
The most common sensation is a gentle pressure in the vaginal area. If you force it, you’ll feel some discomfort or pulling. It’s nothing serious, just proof the suction isn’t broken yet. Take your time, breathe deeply, and everything will go smoothly.
Comparison of recommended positions for removing your menstrual cup
To remove your menstrual cup easily, you can try different positions (just like for insertion). Choose a position that suits your body and comfort.
Crouched down low, sitting on the toilet, or standing with one leg raised. Each position has its own benefits.
There are several positions you can use to remove a menstrual cup. Here are the three best ones:
|
Position |
Benefits |
Drawbacks |
| Squatting |
Shortens the vaginal canal, relaxes pelvic muscles |
May be difficult for some body types |
| Sitting on the toilet |
Stable position, ideal for beginners |
Less effective for a high cervix |
| Standing (leg raised) |
Better visibility of the vaginal opening |
Requires good balance and appropriate space |
Squatting shortens the vaginal canal for easier access. It’s great for beginners, but not so easy if you’re not very flexible. Sitting on the toilet helps you relax. Elevating one leg gives you the best visibility, but requires good balance. Adjust as needed.
If your cup is stuck, has moved up, or is out of reach…
Sometimes, the menstrual cup can feel out of reach. Don’t panic—take a deep breath. Your muscles may have tensed up. Gently bear down, as if you’re having a bowel movement, to help lower the cup.
Gently contract your abdominal muscles to help lower the cup.
If it’s really out of reach, try squatting to shorten the path. There’s no rush, take your time. In 99% of cases, patience pays off. If not, consult a professional.
Common problems and solutions for removing your cup
|
Problem |
Solution |
To remember |
| Cup out of reach |
Breathe deeply, push gently, and try squatting. |
The cup doesn’t evaporate; it naturally moves downward |
| Leaks |
Pinch the base before removing, empty regularly |
A slow motion prevents splashing |
| Muscle tension |
Relax your pelvic floor, breathe slowly |
The technique comes with practice. |
| Difficult to reach |
Try different positions (squatting, one leg raised) |
Every body type has its ideal posture |
| Excessive waterproofing |
Pinch the base to break the suction effect |
Never force things—gentleness always pays off |
III. Practical Tips for Comfortable Use
🌸 Hand hygiene and cleaning during removal
When using a menstrual cup, hygiene is very important. Wash your hands with soap and warm water before every use. Hand sanitizer is only a temporary solution. Poor hygiene could lead to infection, so don’t take any chances. Sterilizing your cup before and after your period should be second nature. When you’re on the go, discreetly rinse it over the toilet. An unscented intimate wipe or a bottle of drinking water will do the trick.
🌸 Solutions for beginners with their menstrual cup
Here are some tips for new users of Louloucup Rose or Turquoise.
- Adjustment time varies, but most users feel comfortable after their second cycle. If you have any doubts, follow our tips, check out our menstrual cup guide, and read our many articles on the subject, including all our advice on how to insert your cup correctly.
- Wash your hands before each use.
- Use a water-based lubricant for insertion if needed.
- Choose your ideal position (squatting, sitting, or with one leg raised).
- Choose the folding method that works best for you.
- Gently insert the folded cup at the entrance of your vagina and let it unfold.
Find out how menstrual cup users share their tips. Some recommend practicing in the shower. Persistence pays off—once you master it, the cup becomes your best ally for unmatched comfort.
🌸 Common mistakes to avoid with your menstrual cup
Never pull on the stem without breaking the suction seal first, as this can cause leaks and discomfort.
Also avoid cleaning it with harsh products, scented toilet paper, or unsuitable wipes.
To get the most out of it, choose the right size for your flow.
Switch between two menstrual cups if you can, so you always have a clean one available.
Wash it with a gentle soap between each use to maintain intimate balance.
In summary:
A cup can’t get lost in your body.
It never gets permanently stuck.
Removal doesn’t require physical strength and can be completely painless.
The suction effect is released by pinching the base.
Removal can be clean with practice.
The cup model has little impact on removal difficulty.
The cup is compatible with an IUD, but we recommend getting your doctor’s approval.
Never pull on the stem without breaking the seal first.
Removing your menstrual cup starts by breaking the suction by pinching the base, getting into a comfortable position (squatting or with one leg raised), and staying calm if the stem feels out of reach. Practice these steps with confidence, and you’ll soon see why the menstrual cup is the perfect ally for a leak-free, hassle-free period!
FAQ: removing a menstrual cup
How do you remove a full menstrual cup?
To remove a full menstrual cup without any trouble, relaxation is key. Get into a comfortable position, like sitting on the toilet or squatting, to make access easier. These positions shorten the vaginal canal.
Next, pinch the base of the cup to break the suction before gently removing it. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse the cup, and it’s ready to use again. With a little practice, this will become second nature!
How many times a day should you remove a cup (empty it, rinse it, and reinsert it)?
The menstrual cup should be emptied every 4 to 6 hours. This depends on your comfort and your flow. Don’t leave a cup in for more than 6 hours without emptying and rinsing it. So, if you keep it in for 6 hours straight, you’ll need to remove and empty it twice a day—the second time being in the evening. For a safe and comfortable night’s sleep, we recommend using menstrual underwear instead of a cup. Excellent, highly absorbent styles are available in the Louloucup shop to help you enjoy a peaceful night.
When should you remove your cup?
You can (and should) remove your menstrual cup at regular intervals, every 4 to 6 hours, to empty and rinse it. You might also need to remove it if you feel it, if it bothers you, or if it’s uncomfortable. If that’s the case, you should take it out because it’s not in the right position and will probably leak.
