How to Know If Your Menstrual Cup Is Inserted Correctly — And What Your Period Flow Says About Your Health

If you’ve made the switch to a reusable menstrual cup, congratulations — you’re making a smart, eco-friendly choice for your body and the planet. But if you’re unsure whether your cup is inserted correctly or what your period flow means, you’re not alone.

This blog will guide you through:

  • ✅ How to know your menstrual cup is positioned properly

  • ✅ What a normal menstrual flow looks like

  • ✅ What it means if your period is too light or too heavy

  • ✅ Where to buy the best eco-friendly menstrual cups

💡 How to Know If Your Menstrual Cup Is Inserted Correctly

When used correctly, a menstrual cup offers leak-free comfort for up to 12 hours. Here’s how to tell it’s in the right spot:

1. You Don’t Feel It

The cup should sit low in your vaginal canal and feel completely comfortable. If you feel pressure or discomfort, it might not be fully inserted or unfolded.

2. There Are No Leaks

Leaks usually mean the cup hasn't fully opened. Try rotating the base or running your finger around the rim to create a secure seal.

3. The Stem Is in the Right Place

The stem should not stick out or cause irritation. You can trim it for comfort — just don’t cut into the base.

4. You Feel or Hear a “Pop”

That little “pop” sound means the cup has opened fully — a great sign it’s properly in place.

🌸 What Is a Normal Period Flow?

With a menstrual cup, it’s easy to measure how much you bleed. On average, women lose 30–80 mL (2–5 tablespoons) of blood during a full period cycle.

🩸 Daily Flow Guide:

Flow Type Amount per Day Cup Fill Time
Light Flow 5–10 mL 8–12+ hours
Medium Flow 10–20 mL 6–10 hours
Heavy Flow 20–30+ mL 2–6 hours

Most menstrual cups, like the ones we recommend below, hold around 25–30 mL, making them perfect for tracking your flow naturally.

⚠️ What If Your Period Is Too Light or Too Heavy?

❗ Light Periods (Under 20 mL Total)

Could be caused by:

  • Hormonal imbalance or low estrogen

  • Birth control or stress

  • Perimenopause or excessive exercise

🩷 Light periods are usually not dangerous but should be monitored for changes.

❗ Heavy Periods (Over 80 mL Total)

Warning signs include:

  • Needing to empty your cup every 1–2 hours

  • Passing clots larger than a quarter

  • Fatigue or shortness of breath

Possible causes:

  • Uterine fibroids or endometriosis

  • Hormonal imbalance (like PCOS)

  • Thyroid disorders or blood clotting issues

If this sounds familiar, please consult your healthcare provider.

🌍 Best Eco-Friendly Menstrual Cups (With Links)

Here are our top recommended menstrual cups that are comfortable, leak-proof, and sustainable:

1. ⭐ Retro Soft Silicone Menstrual Cup – 2 Pack with Storage + Brush

  • Medical-grade silicone

  • Hypoallergenic, reusable for up to 10 years

  • Includes cleaning brush + storage case

  • Great for beginners and regular use

2. 🌿 Saalt Soft Menstrual Cup (Small/Regular)

  • Ultra-soft for sensitive users

  • Perfect for low cervix or first-time users

  • Available in multiple sizes and colors

3. ♻️ DivaCup Model 1 – Reusable Feminine Hygiene Cup

  • One of the most trusted brands worldwide

  • Long-lasting and ideal for moderate-to-heavy flow

  • BPA-free, latex-free

📲 Pro Tip: Track Your Flow Digitally

Pair your menstrual cup with a free period tracking app like Clue or Flo to keep track of flow levels, symptoms, and cycle changes.

✅ Final Thoughts

Learning how to insert your menstrual cup correctly can take a little practice — but once you do, the comfort and freedom from leaks, waste, and chemicals is absolutely worth it.

Understanding your menstrual flow gives you deeper insight into your health and helps you catch signs of hormonal imbalances or other conditions early.

👉 Ready to make the switch or upgrade your current cup?
Check out our best-selling eco-friendly menstrual cup set now and enjoy clean, safe, and sustainable period care.

Back to blog