Making the switch to a menstrual cup can feel daunting at first — but once you get the hang of it, most people wonder why they didn't start sooner. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to use your menstrual cup confidently from day one.
What Is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible silicone cup that sits inside the vaginal canal to collect menstrual flow — rather than absorbing it like a pad or tampon. It can be worn for up to 8–12 hours, making it ideal for busy days, overnight use, and even swimming.
Unlike disposables, a quality menstrual cup like The Hivette Menstrual Cup can last for years, saving you hundreds of ringgit and keeping thousands of disposable products out of landfill.
Before Your First Use: Sterilise Your Cup
Always sterilise a new cup before using it for the first time:
- Place your Hivette cup in a pot of boiling water
- Boil for 5–7 minutes
- Remove carefully and allow to cool completely before use
You can also use a dedicated cup cleanser like the Squeaky Hivette Cup Cleanser for regular between-use cleaning.
How to Fold & Insert Your Menstrual Cup
The key to a comfortable fit is the fold. Try one of these two beginner-friendly folds:
- C-Fold: Flatten the cup and fold it in half so the rim forms a "C" shape
- Punch-Down Fold: Push one side of the rim down into the cup to create a smaller insertion point — great for beginners
To insert:
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Choose your fold and hold the cup firmly
- Relax your muscles — sitting on the toilet or squatting works well
- Insert the folded cup at a slight angle toward your tailbone (not straight up)
- Once inside, let it open fully — you should feel or hear a gentle "pop"
- Rotate the cup slightly to confirm it has fully opened and formed a seal
If inserted correctly, you shouldn't feel it at all.
How to Check the Seal
Run a finger around the base of the cup. It should feel round, not dented. You can also gently tug the stem — if there's resistance, the seal is good.
How to Remove Your Menstrual Cup
- Wash your hands
- Relax and bear down gently with your pelvic muscles to bring the cup lower
- Pinch the base of the cup (not just the stem) to break the seal
- Gently wiggle it out at an angle, keeping it upright
- Empty the contents into the toilet
How often should you empty it? Every 4–8 hours depending on your flow, or up to 12 hours on lighter days. Never leave it in for more than 12 hours.
How to Clean Your Cup Between Uses
- During your period: Rinse with cold water first (to prevent staining), then wash with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap or the Squeaky Hivette Cup Cleanser
- End of your cycle: Sterilise by boiling for 5–7 minutes, then store in the breathable pouch it came with
Avoid harsh soaps, oils, or bleach — these can degrade the silicone.
Common Beginner Questions
Will it leak? Only if the seal hasn't fully formed. If you're experiencing leaks, try reinserting and checking the seal. Wearing a reusable pad as a backup while you're learning is a great idea — try The Hive Reusable Sanitary Pads for peace of mind.
Does it hurt? It shouldn't. If you feel discomfort, the cup may not be fully open or may be sitting too high or low. Remove and reinsert.
Can I sleep with it in? Yes! The cup can safely be worn overnight for up to 12 hours.
Can I use it if I've never used a tampon? Yes, though it may take a cycle or two to get comfortable with insertion.
Tips for Your First Cycle
- Practice inserting and removing at home before your period starts
- Try different folds to find what works for your body
- Use a reusable pad as a backup for your first few days
- Give yourself at least 2–3 cycles before deciding if it's right for you
Ready to Make the Switch?
The Hivette Menstrual Cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone and is designed for Malaysian women. Shop The Hivette Menstrual Cup →
Looking for a complete period care set? Check out our Fatimah, Hannah, and Azizah Period Care Sets — curated bundles to help you transition to zero-waste period care completely.