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If you're thinking about switching to a menstrual cup but don't know where to start, this is your guide. Here we explain exactly what a menstrual cup for beginners is, how it works, how to use it for the first time, and what to expect in the first cycles. No beating around the bush, with clear steps.
Beginner's Guide to the Menstrual Cup
If you're considering switching to a menstrual cup but don't know where to start, this is your guide. Here we explain exactly what a beginner menstrual cup is, how it works, how to use it for the first time, and what to expect in the first cycles. No fluff, with clear steps.
⚕️ Medical notice: this article is informational and does not replace a consultation with your gynecologist. If you have any doubts, consult her.
In this beginner's guide
1 What is a menstrual cup?
The menstrual cup is a small, flexible container shaped like a bell, made from surgical-grade silicone. Unlike tampons or pads, it does not absorb the flow, but collects it directly inside the vagina. You can wear it for up to 12 hours straight, and use it for swimming, sleeping, or exercising without noticing anything.
If you want to see the available models before continuing, check out the menstrual cups from PapayaCup.
Key features of the PapayaCup
- Material: surgical-grade silicone made in Germany, free from latex and toxins.
- Hypoallergenic and biocompatible: does not alter vaginal pH or cause infections or allergies.
- Up to 12 hours of continuous use: even while you sleep.
- Durability: with proper care, lasts up to 10 years.
- Measurement markers: includes markings so you can monitor your flow.
Who is it suitable for?
For the vast majority of people who menstruate, regardless of age. The PapayaCup is especially designed for those who experience discomfort with other cups —due to postpartum, muscle tension, vaginismus, or vaginal sensitivity— thanks to its extra flexibility and anatomical shape. If you have an IUD or have just given birth, consult your gynecologist before using it.
2 How the menstrual cup works
The menstrual cup stays in place thanks to the vacuum it creates when it unfolds inside the vagina. Its anatomical shape is designed to fit the vaginal canal: it does not move and is not felt.
Real testimony
"At first, it took me a bit, but by the third day of my cycle, I was doing it without thinking. The most surprising thing was seeing the actual amount of flow —much less than I imagined."
3 Advantages and disadvantages of the menstrual cup
At Papayacup, we have been supporting thousands of users in their transition to the menstrual cup for years. The most common thing we hear is: "I wish I had started earlier." But we also know that there is a learning curve. Here’s the complete picture.
✓ Advantages
- Up to 12 hours of protection
- You can swim, sleep, and exercise
- No latex or toxins
- Does not alter vaginal pH
- Lasts up to 10 years
- You get to know your cycle better
→ Things to consider
- Learning curve of 1–3 cycles
- Requires washing hands beforehand
- Not recommended right after childbirth
- May need size adjustment
Real testimony
"The first two days seemed a bit complicated, but by the second cycle, I completely forgot I was wearing it. My 12-hour shifts at the hospital no longer revolve around my period."
4 Beginner's guide: how to use the menstrual cup for the first time
This is the central part of any beginner's guide to the menstrual cup. Follow these steps and you’ll have everything under control from the first cycle.
Before the first use
- Sterilize the cup: Boil it in clean water for 5–7 minutes. The Papayacup includes a sterilizer with the purchase.
- Choose your size: Papayacup comes in size S and size L. Use the Papayacup size guide to find yours. If it’s not the right one after three cycles, they have a size change guarantee.
- Read the complete manual: The official Papayacup manual includes detailed instructions and access to a video tutorial.
- Practice outside your period: Get familiar with insertion and removal without the pressure of flow.
The three main folds for beginners
The fold is the first thing any beginner with the menstrual cup learns. Try the three and stick with the one that feels most comfortable:
C Fold
Fold the cup in half. The simplest to start with.
7 Fold
Fold one side down. A good balance between size and opening.
Punch-down
Push the center down. Narrowest point: ideal for beginners.
Basic step by step
Real testimonial
"What helped me the most was practicing before my period came. When the time arrived, I already knew exactly what to do."
Surgical grade silicone, guaranteed correct size, and personalized online advice.
5 Frequently asked questions about the menstrual cup
These are the questions we receive most often from users who are starting with the menstrual cup for the first time.
You have everything you need to get started
With the steps in this guide and a little practice, most users forget they are wearing the menstrual cup from the first cycle. Surgical-grade silicone, up to 10 years of use, size guarantee, and online support from the PapayaCup team.
