How To Remove a Menstrual Cup

How Long Can a MeLuna Menstrual Cup Stay In?

You can safely wear your MeLuna menstrual cup for 8 to 12 hours at a time, depending on your flow. Most users find it sufficient to empty the cup 2 to 4 times a day, but the frequency may vary based on individual flow and the day of your cycle.

Tip: Start by emptying the cup at the same intervals you would have changed tampons or pads. This will help you figure out the best routine for your body.

Yes, you can wear the cup overnight—just be sure to empty it at least every 12 hours.
No, you don’t need to remove the cup every time you go to the bathroom, although some users may find it necessary due to strong pelvic muscles, etc.

How to Remove Your MeLuna Cup

Wash your hands thoroughly.
Find a comfortable position—many prefer sitting.
Use your pelvic floor muscles to gently push the cup downward. This often breaks the seal naturally.
If the seal remains, pinch the base of the cup (not just the handle) to release it.
Gently pull the handle (ball, ring, or stem) only after breaking the seal.

✨ Practice makes perfect! The first few times may take patience—stay relaxed and take your time.

Can a Menstrual Cup Get Lost Inside Me?

No! Your MeLuna cup cannot get lost in your body. The cervix is a natural barrier—your menstrual cup can't pass through it.

Why Does My Cup Look Oval After Removal?

That’s completely normal! The MeLuna cup is made from TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), a material that adapts to your body. Since the vagina is shaped more like a flattened tube than a perfect circle, your cup may appear oval-shaped after use. This simply means it’s doing its job—creating a perfect, leak-proof seal.

Silicone cups don’t reshape the same way, so TPE’s adaptive fit is one of the unique benefits of MeLuna.

Thinking of a Dry Run? Here’s What to Know

Many first-time users try inserting the cup before their period. That’s fine—but keep in mind:

Your cervix sits lower during your period, so the fit may feel different.
More natural lubrication during your cycle also makes insertion easier.

If a dry run feels tricky, don’t worry—it’s likely to feel better during your actual period.

Watch Our Removal Video

Prefer visual instructions?
👉 Check out our menstrual cup removal video where we demonstrate the process on a model.

Is your cup leaking? Check out our Blog Post on the 6 Top Reasons why your cup is leaking and how to fix it.

Challenging Cup Removal Situations

Removing a menstrual cup is usually easy after a few tries, but in certain situations, it can be more challenging. Here are some factors that can make removal more difficult:

Cup firmness:
Firmer cups like the MeLuna Sport create a stronger seal, which can be harder to break.
- The MeLuna Sport is not recommended for new users or those with limited finger dexterity or hand strength.
- Softer cups like the MeLuna Classic are easier to manage for new users.
Anatomy (cervix position):
- If your cervix sits high, the cup can travel further up, making it more difficult to reach.
- In some cases, the cup may form a tight seal around the cervix, especially when the cup’s diameter and cervix position align in a way that limits access or makes breaking the seal more difficult.

While true removal emergencies are rare, understanding these factors can help you stay calm and better prepared if removal proves tricky.

Tips for Successful Menstrual Cup Removal

While removal is usually straightforward, some key techniques can make the process much easier—especially if you're having trouble.

✅ Key Factors for Menstrual Cup Removal

Reach matters:
Many people instinctively use their thumb and index finger to pinch and remove the cup. However, using your index and middle fingers instead often works better.
- This combination has a narrower entry width and longer reach, making it easier to access the cup—especially if it has moved higher in the vaginal canal.
Breaking the seal is your #1 priority:
If you can’t reach the cup well enough to pinch and remove it, focus solely on breaking the seal.
- Use one finger to reach up and press into the cup.
- Ideally, press into the side of the rim, as close to the top as you can reach.
- If that’s not possible, pressing lower on the cup body can still help collapse it and release the suction.

🛠 Additional Tools and Options

MeLuna High Cervix Adaptations:
If your cervix is positioned high, consider using a specially adapted high-cervix cup.
👉 View MeLuna High Cervix Options
Cup Buddy Tool:
This third-party tool is designed to help reach your cup and assist in breaking the seal.
(Note: MeLuna USA is not affiliated with this product and cannot make any claims about its effectiveness.)