Why does my cup leak or feel uncomfortable?

Leaking

It’s very common to experience some leaking while you’re still getting used to the cup. Often, a few small adjustments can make a big difference.

Here are the most common reasons a cup may leak and how to fix them:

  • Tense muscles: If your pelvic floor muscles are tense, the cup may struggle to open fully. Try to stay relaxed during insertion—squatting, sitting on the toilet, or standing with one leg raised can help. A bit of water or water-based lubricant can also make the process smoother.
  • The cup didn't open fully: After inserting it, try clenching and then relaxing your pelvic floor muscles to help the cup "pop" into place. You can also grasp the base (not the stem) and give it a twist, or run a finger around the rim to check for folds. Give the stem a gentle tug; if you feel resistance, the vacuum seal is correctly in place.
  • Blocked air holes: The four small holes near the rim help create the suction seal. If they are clogged, the cup won't seal properly. To clear them, fill the cup with warm water, cover the top with your palm, and squeeze the base so water is forced out through the holes.
  • Positioning and the cervix: Ensure you are inserting the cup at a 45-degree angle toward your spine (following the natural shape of the vaginal canal) and placing it slightly lower than a tampon. Since your cervix can shift during your cycle, make sure the rim sits below it. You can locate your cervix by feeling for a firmer area of tissue (similar to the tip of a nose).
  • Residual blood: Sometimes what looks like a leak is actually "residual" blood left in the vaginal canal after insertion. After the cup is in place, try running a finger around the base to clear any remaining spotting.
  • Flow and size: On heavier days, you may simply need to empty the cup more frequently. It is also normal for the cervix to move up or down during your cycle, which might require a slight adjustment in how high the cup sits.

Discomfort

When inserted correctly, you shouldn't feel any discomfort with the cup. It may take some time for your body to adjust to it. However, if you're experiencing persistent discomfort, if you're experiencing persistent discomfort, it usually comes down to one of the following factors:

  • Adjustment Period. Your body may simply still be getting used to the cup.
  • Positioning. Your cervix can change position throughout your cycle. You may need to adjust the cup slightly upward or downward at a slight angle. If it has been inserted too high and placed beside your cervix instead of underneath, remove the cup and reinsert it correctly.
  • Irritation/Scratch.You accidentally scratched yourself or irritated the inside of the vagina when inserting/removing it.
  • Stem. The cup's stem is poking through the outside of your vagina. In this case, we recommend shortening the stem. 
  • Sizing. If the cup size isn’t right, it may not unfold correctly. This can cause a noticeable sensation or cramping beyond normal period pain.

Check our 'how-to' guide for further information: https://www.allmatters.com/how-to-use

If you still have concerns, contact support@allmatters.com to find the right solution.

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