While you practice using a menstrual cup, you may face situations in which removing the menstrual cup from the vagina might not be successful on the first attempt. If you face such a situation, this, don’t let it get you in a panic. The menstrual cup cannot get stuck inside you and with these tips you will definitely manage to remove it.
1. Remember that the vagina is surprisingly short in the end. Its length is on average 10 centimetres, so you will definitely reach the base of the menstrual cup with your fingers.
2. Do something nice, breathe calmly, it's not worth panicking. Calmness is key in being able to successfully remove the menstrual cup.
3. If the menstrual cup seems to be so deep that it is difficult to grasp the base of it, first move the menstrual cup down a little by pulling down on the antenna. While pulling the antenna, push the menstrual cup down with your pelvic floor muscles, just as you do when you go to the toilet. When the menstrual cup moves lower down and you can get a grip of its base, crunch up the base of the menstrual cup and release its negative pressure. Next, continue to push with your pelvic floor muscles and pull the menstrual cup out while holding on to its base.
4. If you feel that removing the menstrual cup while sitting on the toilet is inconvenient, you can try other positions as well. For example, go into a supine position, hook your legs and push with your pelvic floor muscles while pulling the cup out from its base. You can also try removing it in the shower, in a squatting position, or by lifting your other leg on the toilet.
5. When removing the menstrual cup does not seem to work at all, it is worth taking a break. Do something nice, take a nap, go for a run or watch TV. Once your mind has calmed down and you feel relaxed again, it is a good time to try removing the menstrual cup again. Sometimes after being in a supine position for a longer period, such as after a night's sleep, the menstrual cup may have slid deeper into the vagina. Standing in an upright position usually quickly helps the menstrual cup to descend lower.
6. Asking for help is not a bad thing either. If you feel that you cannot calm yourself enough, you can perfectly well ask your friend for help. Remember that the menstrual cup can always be removed. It can’t get stuck inside you!