How to Wear a Cup: A Step-by-Step Guide for Comfortable and Safe Use
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
If you’re involved in contact sports or activities that involve a risk of injury to your groin area, it’s essential to wear a protective cup. A cup is a hard, curved shell that fits inside a jockstrap or compression shorts and protects your genitals from impact.
However, wearing a cup can be uncomfortable and awkward if you don’t know how to put it on correctly. In this article, I will share with you some tips on how to wear a cup comfortably and securely.
The first thing you need to do is to choose the right size and style of cup. Cups come in different sizes and shapes, so it’s important to find one that fits you well. Measure your waist or check the tag on a pair of pants that fit to figure out your waist size.
Make sure to choose a cup that is suitable for your sport or activity. For example, a baseball cup may be different from a hockey cup because of the different types of impacts they need to protect against.
Once you have the right cup, it’s time to put it on. The easiest way to do this is to hold the cup in place with one hand and use the other hand to pull your shorts or jockstrap up over it.
Make sure the cup is centered over your genitals and fits snugly against your body. Adjust the straps or waistband of your shorts or jockstrap so that they are comfortable but not too tight. With a little practice, you’ll be able to put on your cup quickly and easily.
Choosing the Right Cup
When it comes to choosing the right protective cup, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this section, I’ll cover the two main factors to consider: size and shape.
Size
The first thing to consider when choosing a protective cup is size. A cup that is too small won’t provide adequate protection, while a cup that is too large can be uncomfortable and may shift around during physical activity. To determine your size, you’ll need to measure your waist or check the tag on a pair of pants that fit.
According to Livestrong, size is determined by age and body mass. Boys aged five and up, reaching 4 feet 6 inches and 80 pounds should wear a cup 1 3/4 inches in depth. Youths age 11 and up, reaching 5 feet 6 inches and 110 pounds should wear a cup 2 inches in depth. However, it’s always best to check the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer of the cup you’re interested in.
Shape
The second thing to consider when choosing a protective cup is shape. Cups come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to find one that fits your anatomy comfortably. Some cups are designed specifically for certain sports or activities, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for your needs.
According to WikiHow, there are four main shapes of cups: traditional, brief, jockstrap, and compression shorts. Traditional cups are the most common and are worn inside a jockstrap or compression shorts. Brief cups are built into underwear and are designed to be worn alone. Jockstrap cups are worn inside a jockstrap, while compression shorts cups are built into compression shorts.
Ultimately, the shape of the cup you choose will depend on your personal preference and the type of physical activity you’ll be engaging in. It’s important to try on different types of cups to find the one that fits you best.
Preparing the Cup
Before wearing a cup, it is important to properly clean and sanitize it. This will help prevent infections and ensure that the cup is safe to use.
Cleaning
To clean the cup, I first rinse it with warm water to remove any debris or blood. Then, I use a mild, unscented soap to wash the cup thoroughly. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or scented soaps, as they can irritate the skin and damage the cup.
After washing, I rinse the cup again with warm water to ensure that all soap residue is removed. I then dry the cup with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Sanitizing
In addition to cleaning, it is important to regularly sanitize the cup to kill any bacteria or germs that may be present. I usually sanitize my cup at the beginning and end of my period.
To sanitize the cup, I first boil it in a pot of water for 5-10 minutes. I make sure to use enough water to fully submerge the cup and avoid letting it touch the bottom of the pot, as this can cause damage. After boiling, I let the cup cool and dry it before using it again.
Alternatively, I can also use a specialized cup sanitizer, following the instructions on the product label. This can be a convenient option for those who do not have access to a stove or prefer not to boil their cup.
Inserting the Cup
Inserting a cup can be intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Here are some tips to help you insert your cup comfortably and correctly:
Folding Techniques
There are several cup folding techniques to choose from, and everyone has their own preference. It is important to experiment with different folds to find the one that works best for you. Here are some popular folding techniques:
- C-fold: Fold the cup in half to form a C shape.
- Punch-down fold: Push the rim of the cup down into the center to form a triangle shape.
- 7-fold: Fold one side of the cup down and then fold the other side over it to form a 7 shape.
Lubrication
Using a water-based lubricant can make inserting the cup more comfortable. It can also help create a better seal, which can prevent leaks. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the rim of the cup before insertion.
Once you have chosen your folding technique and applied lubricant, it’s time to insert the cup. Here are the basic steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Relax your muscles and find a comfortable position, such as squatting or sitting on the toilet.
- Hold the cup at the base and fold it using your preferred folding technique.
- Use your free hand to hold your labia apart and guide the cup into your vagina.
- Insert the cup until the stem is inside your vagina.
- Release the fold and rotate the cup to create a seal.
- Check to ensure the cup is fully open and create a seal.
Remember, it may take a few tries to get the hang of inserting the cup. Be patient with yourself and don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work perfectly the first time. With practice, you’ll find the right technique and insertion method that works best for you.
Wearing the Cup
Positioning
Before putting on the cup, make sure that the cup pouch on your athletic shorts is facing forward and covering your genitals. Pull the shorts waistband outward and slide the cup into the pouch.
The narrow end of the cup should be facing down toward your feet, with the wider end of the cup resting below the waistband. Adjust the position of the cup so that it sits comfortably and securely. The bottom edge of the cup should be level with the top of your pubic bone.
Securing
Once the cup is in place, secure it by adjusting the waistband of your shorts. Pull the waistband up over your hips, making sure that the cup is held firmly in position.
The waistband should be snug, but not too tight, to prevent the cup from moving around during physical activity. You may need to make some minor adjustments to the position of the cup or the waistband to ensure that everything stays in place.
Remember that wearing an athletic cup is an important safety precaution when participating in contact sports or other activities that involve a risk of injury to the groin area.
Make sure that you choose a cup that fits properly and provides adequate protection. If you experience any discomfort or irritation while wearing the cup, adjust the position or try a different size or style of cup.
Removing the Cup
Removing the menstrual cup can be intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Here are the steps I follow to remove my cup:
Breaking the Seal
The first step in removing the cup is to break the seal. To do this, I use my thumb and forefinger to gently pinch the base of the cup. This releases the suction and makes it easier to remove. It’s important to do this gently to avoid spilling any menstrual fluid.
Gently Pulling
Once the seal is broken, I gently pull the cup out by the base. It’s important to relax my muscles and take my time to avoid discomfort or spilling. If the cup feels stuck, I gently rock it back and forth while pulling to help release it. If necessary, I can also use my pelvic muscles to push the cup down slightly to make it easier to grasp.
After removing the cup, I empty it into the toilet and rinse it with warm water before reinserting it. It’s important to wash my hands thoroughly before and after removing the cup to maintain good hygiene.
Caring for the Cup
After using your cup, it is important to take proper care of it to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips on how to clean and store your cup.
Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning your cup, it is important to use a gentle, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaps with added fragrances, as they can cause irritation or damage to the cup.
To clean the cup, simply remove it and empty the contents into the toilet. Rinse the cup with warm water to remove any remaining residue. Then, wash the cup with soap and water, making sure to thoroughly clean all areas, including the rim and air holes. Rinse the cup again to remove any soap residue.
If you are in a public restroom and do not have access to soap and water, you can use a menstrual cup wipe to clean the cup. These wipes are specifically designed to clean menstrual cups and are a convenient option when you are on the go.
Storage
When you are not using your cup, it is important to store it properly to avoid any damage or contamination. Most menstrual cups come with a storage pouch, which is perfect for keeping your cup clean and protected.
When storing your cup, make sure it is completely dry before placing it in the pouch. Avoid storing the cup in an airtight container, as this can cause moisture buildup and potentially lead to mold or mildew growth. Instead, store the cup in a cool, dry place, such as a drawer or cabinet.
It is also important to regularly inspect your cup for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you notice any cracks, tears, or other damage, it is time to replace your cup with a new one.
