Congratulations on switching to a sustainable period product like the menstrual cup- it must be so disappointing to see it leaking.
I remember how eagerly I awaited my period after purchasing my menstrual cup for the very first time. My excitement died down soon when I went through the gruelling “first-time” insertion process, only to be devastated at seeing blood staining my underwear an hour later. Keep in mind, all of this happened seven years ago, when there wasn’t a lot of education available in India on this ‘new’ period product.
Related: How to Use a Menstrual Cup
Over time, with the help of ‘Dr Google’, Instagram menstruators and lots of trial-and-error, I have been able to narrow it down to FOUR reasons why the menstrual cup runneth over. So if you are experiencing menstrual cup leaking, we will address how you could remedy them to have a leak-free period!
Here are 4 troubleshooting tips towards enjoying no menstrual cup leaking from now!
(The first three reasons could happen at any point of your menstrual cup journey and can be instantly remedied for a leak-free period. However, if leakage is a continuous long-term issue, the last reason may be the possible culprit.)
1. Menstrual Cup has not opened fully
The first reason why the menstrual cup leaks is explained here. You’ve contorted the menstrual cup into a fold of your choice and directed it towards its home in your vaginal canal for the next 8 hours. And then it leaks.
The most common reason why the menstrual cup is leaking, especially in new menstrual cup users, is that the menstrual cup hasn’t opened up fully. The cup retains a fold or a ridge which gives your Aunt Flo a route to make her presence felt. In order to prevent menstrual cup leaks, the user must ensure that the cup has opened up fully.
How could I make sure the menstrual cup has opened up fully?
The most effective way to do this is to run a finger across the bottom of the cup, immediately after insertion. At this stage, if you feel a ridge, apply a small amount of pressure against it until the cup opens up fully. However, if you feel a large fold, it is recommended to remove and reinsert.
This is a skill you’ll certainly master over time- the first step towards a leak-free period!
2. Incorrect Menstrual Cup Position
Does the Menstrual Cup leak? Yes, it does for a lot of reasons. So the next likely reason why the menstrual cup is leaking would be improper positioning. If the cup is placed too high or too low in the vaginal canal, it has the tendency to leak.
How could I make sure that the menstrual cup is in the right position?
The cup should sit in the vaginal canal below the cervix. There is a chance that the stem may sit a little out of the canal, but it should not be outside the vulva- then the cup is too low.
3. Clogged Airholes
You may have seen pinpoint airholes on your menstrual cup and wondered what they’re there for. These holes help the cup with their suction to stay in place as it fills up so that it won’t leak. However, if they get clogged up, menstrual fluid may leak around the cup. This is one of the major reasons for menstrual cup leaking.
How could I unclog the airholes?
Learn a little more about your period and empty the cup more often when your flow is heavier. To unclog these holes, remove the cup and throughly wash them against running water.
4. Incorrect Menstrual Cup Size
A likely reason why your menstrual cup leaks over multiple cycles consistently could be using a cup that is incorrectly sized. A cup’s size may be incorrect to begin with or could change based on a variety of factors.
How can I choose the correct menstrual cup size for me?
Take a Menstrual Cup Size Quiz to get the ideal recommendation for you. This quiz considers 10 different factors which may be determining the menstrual cup size that’s right for you.
Have you ever experienced a leaking menstrual cup? Was it because of one of these 4 reasons?
How To Fix Menstrual Cup Leakage?
So now that you know the possible reasons behind menstrual cups leaking, let us help you fix the issue. Some tips that you should keep in mind while fixing the menstrual cup leakage are
Positioning: Make sure you insert your menstrual cup properly and fully open it inside your vagina to ensure proper suction.
Cup opening: After the menstrual cup insertion, run your finger around the cup or rotate your cup to ensure it has fully opened.
Emptying frequency: Make sure you empty your menstrual cup frequently especially if you experience heavy flow to prevent any leaks.
Seal check: It is best to check the cup’s base to make sure it has properly created suction against the vaginal walls and not folded or caused any kind of gap.
Consider different sizes or shapes: Try a different size or shape that suits your body and menstrual flow better.
Cup Material: Opt for cups made from different materials to find the one that provides the perfect seal and prevents leaks.
Seek guidance: If leaks continue to be a problem, make sure you seek guidance from experienced professionals or healthcare experts
Suggested Product card: Sirona Recommends Best Products To Keep Menstrual Cup From Leaking
Sirona’s Reusable Menstrual Disc – Large
Sirona’s Reusable Menstrual Discs are made of 100% medical-grade silicone that offers up to 8 hours of protection without causing any rashes or leakage!
Sirona’s Menstrual Cup with Pouch – Small & Medium (Duo)
Sirona’s menstrual cup with pouch is ideal for different flow days. These are FDA-approved cups made up of 100% medical-grade silicone without changing hassles.
Sirona’s Slide & Flow Period Duo Kit
This Sirona’s Period Flow starter kit comes with water based lubricant and a reusable menstrual cup. The vaginal tube relieves dryness, makes sex more pleasurable and doesn’t aid infections. The menstrual cup gives you 8-10 hours of protection. So don’t delay the choices and make the switch now!
Sirona’s Reusable Menstrual Cup Applicator with Strawberry Lube
This reusable menstrual cup applicator with Strawberry lube makes hassle-free and precise cup insertion. This product is washable, reusable and sustainable which makes the simpler process of inserting a menstrual cup.
Let us know in the comments below!
Also Read
Benefits of using a menstrual cup: A menstrual cup is an effective period care product that’s here to make you switch to sustainability. So here are all the amazing benefits of using a menstrual cup that you should know about!
Menstrual cup pain reasons: Menstrual cups are fabulous if you use them properly. If it pains to use a menstrual cup, what could be the possible reasons? Hit the link to learn about menstrual cup pain reasons!
How to keep the menstrual cup from leaking: If you’re experiencing a leaking menstrual cup, here’s a handy guide for you to help you keep your menstrual cup from leaking. Read on!
Menstrual cup folding methods: If you are a menstrual cup newbie, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got you covered with the five simplest menstrual cup folding methods to make your insertion safe and easy.