Inserting a Saalt Cup involves learning a few folding techniques and finding the most comfortable method for your body to achieve a leak-free seal. With a little practice, it becomes a simple and effective way to manage your period for up to 12 hours.
Preparing for Insertion
Before you begin, ensure both your hands and your Saalt Cup are clean. For first-time use, sterilize your cup by boiling it in water for 5-10 minutes. For subsequent uses, especially after you've removed it for emptying, simply wash it thoroughly with water and a mild, unscented soap designed for menstrual cups. Once cleaned, it's ready for reinsertion.
Step-by-Step Saalt Cup Insertion Guide
Achieving a comfortable and secure fit is key to using your Saalt Cup successfully. Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Wash Your Hands and Cup
Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean your Saalt Cup with a mild, unscented cleanser and water, or simply rinse it if it has just been emptied and cleaned during its 12-hour wear cycle.
2. Choose a Comfortable Position
Finding a relaxed position can make insertion easier. Many people find success in one of these positions:
- Sitting on the toilet
- Squatting
- Standing with one leg raised on the toilet seat or bathtub edge
- Lying down
Relaxing your pelvic floor muscles is crucial, as tension can make insertion difficult.
3. Fold Your Saalt Cup
There are several popular folds. Experiment to find the one that makes the cup smallest and easiest for you to insert.
- C-Fold (or U-Fold):
- Press the cup flat.
- Fold it in half to form a "C" or "U" shape. This is a common and straightforward fold.
- Punch-Down Fold:
- Place a finger on one side of the rim and push it down into the cup.
- This creates a smaller point for insertion.
- 7-Fold:
- Press the cup flat.
- Fold one corner down diagonally across the cup to meet the opposite side, creating a "7" shape.
4. Insert the Cup
Once folded, hold the cup firmly with the folded side facing up.
- Guide Gently: With the smaller, folded point leading, gently guide the cup into your vagina, aiming towards your tailbone, not straight up. This angle follows the natural curve of your vaginal canal.
- Release the Fold: Once the entire folded portion of the cup is inside, release your grip. The cup should pop open inside you.
- Ensure Proper Placement: The Saalt Cup sits lower than a tampon, typically just inside the vaginal canal. The stem should be entirely inside or only barely visible.
5. Check for a Seal
After inserting, you need to ensure the cup has fully opened and created a suction seal to prevent leaks.
- Run a Finger Around: Gently run your finger around the base of the cup to feel if it's completely round or oval and has no dents. If you feel any folds, gently press on your vaginal wall to give the cup more room to open, or twist the cup slightly.
- Gently Pull the Stem: Lightly tug on the stem. If you feel resistance, it means a seal has formed. If it slides down easily, the seal may not be complete, and you might need to adjust its position.
- Rotate if Needed: Some users find that gently rotating the cup 360 degrees can help it fully open and create a seal.
Living with Your Saalt Cup
Once properly inserted and sealed, your Saalt Cup offers comfortable and reliable protection. You can wear it for up to 12 hours before it needs to be removed, emptied, washed, and reinserted. With practice, insertion becomes quick and intuitive, allowing you to enjoy leak-free confidence throughout your day and night.
