Using a menstrual cup can feel a little uncertain at first, especially when you are trying to work out whether it has opened properly. A menstrual cup is folded before insertion, then it should open once it is inside the vagina so it can collect menstrual fluid comfortably. Once you know what to feel for, it becomes much easier to check.

Why Does a Menstrual Cup Need to Open?

A menstrual cup needs to open so the rim can sit gently against the vaginal walls. This helps create a secure fit and reduces the chance of leaks. If the cup stays partly folded, it may not collect fluid properly. This can cause leaking, discomfort, or the feeling that the cup is sitting in the wrong position.

How Do I Know If My Menstrual Cup Has Opened?

The easiest way to check is to gently feel around the base of the cup after insertion. The base should feel round or oval. If you feel a dent, crease, fold, or flat section, the cup may not have opened fully. You do not usually need to feel the rim itself. For many people, the rim sits too high to comfortably reach, so checking the base is enough.

Gently Rotate the Cup

You can also try gently rotating the cup. Hold the base of the cup, not just the stem, and slowly twist it. If the cup turns smoothly, it has likely opened properly. If it feels folded, stuck, or uneven, it may need adjusting. Do not force it. A small twist or gentle wiggle is usually enough.

Try a Gentle Tug

Once your cup is inserted, gently pull down on the base. If you feel slight resistance, the cup has likely opened and formed a seal. If it slides down very easily, it may not have opened properly or may not be sitting in the right position. This should not hurt. If it feels painful, remove the cup and try again.

Check for Leaks

If your menstrual cup has opened properly and is in the right position, you should usually have little to no leaking. A small amount of spotting can happen if there is already blood lower in the vaginal canal before insertion. However, regular leaking soon after inserting your cup may mean the cup has not opened fully, is not sitting under your cervix, or needs to be emptied.

What Should I Do If My Menstrual Cup Has Not Opened?

If your menstrual cup has not opened, remove it and try again. This is very normal, especially when you are learning.

Try a Different Fold

The fold you use can affect how easily your cup opens. Two common folds are the C fold and the punch down fold.

The C fold can be slightly wider to insert, but it may pop open more easily for some people. The punch down fold creates a smaller insertion point, which many people find more comfortable, although it may sometimes need a little extra help to open fully.

Insert the Cup Slightly Lower First

If your cup is not opening, try letting it open slightly lower in the vaginal canal before gently pushing it into place. This can make it easier to check the base and adjust the cup before it settles into position.

Relax Your Muscles

If your pelvic muscles are tense, the cup may be harder to insert and open. Take a few slow breaths and try a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised.

Run Your Finger Along the Side

If one side of the cup feels dented, gently run your finger along the side of the cup. You can also press the vaginal wall away from the cup slightly to give it room to open.

Why Does My Menstrual Cup Keep Staying Folded?

If your cup keeps staying folded, it may be due to the fold, position, cup size, or your pelvic muscles. Sometimes it takes a few cycles to find the best method for your body. This is normal. A menstrual cup has a learning curve, but once you understand how it should feel, it becomes much easier.

Can I Feel the Cup Pop Open?

Some people feel a small pop or suction feeling when the cup opens. Others do not feel anything at all. Not feeling a pop does not mean your cup has not opened. The best way to check is to feel around the base, gently rotate the cup, or try a gentle tug.

What If My Cup Is Open But Still Leaking?

If your cup feels open but you are still leaking, it may not be sitting under your cervix. Try removing and reinserting the cup at a slight angle towards your tailbone, rather than straight upwards. Leaks can also happen if the cup is full, especially on heavier flow days. If this happens, you may need to empty it more often.

Final Thoughts

To know if your menstrual cup has opened, gently feel around the base. It should feel rounded, without dents or folds. You can also gently rotate the cup, try a light tug, and check for leaks. If your cup has not opened properly, do not worry. Try a different fold, relax your muscles, adjust the position, or reinsert the cup.

bohokiwi menstrual cups are made from 100% medical grade silicone and come in three sizes, because every body and every period is different.