Removing a menstrual cup in public is manageable with a little preparation and finding a private toilet stall.
Essential Steps for Public Menstrual Cup Removal
The key to successfully handling your menstrual cup in a public restroom is being prepared and having a plan. The process involves finding a suitable private space, removing the cup carefully, emptying it, cleaning it as best as you can, and reinserting it or using an alternative product.
Using Water on the Go
A simple and safe way to clean your menstrual cup on the go is to keep a small bottle of water with you during your period. This method allows for a quick rinse within the privacy of a toilet stall.
Here's a step-by-step guide using the water bottle method:
- Locate a private stall: Find a toilet stall with a door you can lock for privacy. If possible, choose one that might have a sink inside the stall, though this is rare.
- Prepare your supplies: Have your small bottle of water, toilet paper, or wet wipes ready before you begin the removal process. Set your bottle of water on the floor and open it.
- Wash or sanitize hands: Wash your hands thoroughly at the sink before entering the stall if possible. If not, use hand sanitizer before and after handling your cup.
- Position yourself: Sit on the toilet or squat over it. Relax your muscles – tension can make removal more difficult.
- Break the seal: Reach inside with clean hands and find the base of the cup. Gently pinch the base to break the suction seal. Avoid pulling the stem directly, as this can be uncomfortable or difficult.
- Remove the cup: Once the seal is broken, gently pull the cup downwards and slightly back (following the angle of your vaginal canal). Keep it upright to avoid spills.
- Empty the contents: Empty the menstrual fluid into the toilet.
- Rinse the cup: Use one hand to remove your menstrual cup and empty its contents into the toilet. Using the water from your bottle, carefully rinse the cup over the toilet to clean off any residual fluid.
- Wipe clean: If a full rinse isn't feasible or you need extra cleaning, wipe the cup with toilet paper or a dedicated menstrual cup wipe.
- Reinsert or store: Reinsert the clean cup. If you are unable to clean it sufficiently or prefer not to reinsert it immediately, wipe it thoroughly and place it in its storage pouch to clean properly later.
- Clean yourself: Wipe yourself as needed.
- Wash or sanitize hands: Wash your hands thoroughly at the sink after leaving the stall, or use hand sanitizer again.
Alternative Cleaning Methods in Public
When a water bottle isn't available or sufficient, consider these options:
- Wipe with Toilet Paper: After emptying, simply wipe the cup thoroughly with toilet paper before reinserting. You can give it a proper wash at home later.
- Use Wet Wipes: Carry unscented, body-safe wet wipes specifically for menstrual cups or intimate areas. Wipe the cup clean with a fresh wipe before reinsertion.
- Rinse Later: If absolutely necessary, you can empty the cup, wipe it with toilet paper, and reinsert it with the plan to rinse or wash it thoroughly the next time you have access to a private sink or are at home. This should be done with caution and not as a regular practice.
Tips for Public Cup Changes
- Practice at home: Get comfortable with removal and insertion in a relaxed environment before attempting it in public.
- Know your flow: Change your cup before it gets completely full, especially when you know you'll be in public for an extended period.
- Carry a small kit: A small bag containing your cup, a small water bottle, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer is ideal for public changes.
- Mentally prepare: Stay calm. Spills can happen, but they are usually minor and contained within the stall.
| Public Cleaning Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Water Bottle Rinse | Effective at removing most residue. | Requires carrying water. Can be awkward. |
| Wipe with Tissue | Simple, requires only toilet paper. | Less hygienic, leaves residue. |
| Menstrual Cup Wipes | Designed for the purpose, convenient. | Requires purchasing and carrying wipes. |
Changing your menstrual cup in public requires a little planning, but by utilizing methods like carrying a small bottle of water for rinsing, you can manage your period discreetly and hygienically no matter where you are.
