Can you use a menstrual cup with long nails?

Do you like getting your nails done? Are you concerned that this may interfere with using a menstrual cup? Well, you’re not alone! 

So if you’re wondering if you can use a menstrual cup with long nails, the answer is yes! Whether you’ve slightly grown out your nails or gotten super long acrylics done, you can use a menstrual cup with long nails - as long as you take some precautions.

In this blog we’ll go through 7 menstrual cup hacks for long nails, so that you can keep your long nails and experience painless menstrual cup insertion and removal. 

1. File the sharp edges of your nails 

Filing your nails will ensure you can keep your long nails and use a menstrual cup comfortably. 

It’s always a good idea to file your nails to have a curved or round edge when you are using a menstrual cup. This way there won’t be any sharp edges which can scratch your vaginal canal while inserting or removing a cup. 

2. Wash your nails thoroughly 

Along with washing your hands before using a menstrual cup, it’s super important to thoroughly wash your nails. 

You can ensure hygienic menstrual cup handling with long nails by carefully washing below your natural nail growth or acrylics. This will remove any bacteria that may be sitting there and prevent chances of vaginal infection. 

3. Keep your fingertips pointed inwards

When it comes to menstrual cup insertion tips for long nails, use the C-fold and point your fingertips towards the cup rather than your vaginal canal as you push the cup inside you. This way your nails won’t risk scratching your labia and vaginal canal. 

For removal, the same rule applies. Keep your fingertips angled towards the cup as you insert your fingers and pinch the base of your cup so that your nails don’t poke you. 

4. Use gloves 

Another great menstrual cup tip for long nails is using gloves to insert and remove your cup. 

You can buy reusable medical grade gloves that are super safe for your body and also eco-friendly. 

5. Handle the cup gently 

The most important thing to remember when using a menstrual cup with acrylic nails is to be very gentle and careful. 

Make sure you have plenty of time when you need to insert and remove your cup, and go slowly to avoid any scratches or discomfort. 

6. Trim your nails shorter if you are a beginner 

If you are new to using a cup, we would suggest trimming your nails a little shorter until you get used to how to use a menstrual cup. 

Read this blog to learn more about using a menstrual cup as a beginner.

7. Use the Asan cup as it as a removal ring

Asan is a great menstrual cup brand for long-nailed individuals because the Asan cup has a unique removal ring which is super easy to grip. 

The removal ring helps you locate and grab the base of the cup without any discomfort, and you can also use your nails to latch onto the ring when removing it. 

Now that you know these various menstrual cup techniques for long nails, go ahead and make the switch to the Asan menstrual cup. 

It can take a bit of practice to use a menstrual cup with long nails but don't worry - you will get the hang of it within a few cycles. Always be careful not to scratch yourself and don’t use a cup if you have any scratches, tears or abrasions.

Influencer and doctor Dr. Tanaya Narendra even used the Asan cup when she had long nails - see her review below!

"I recently switched from Mooncup to Asan cup and man do I love it! My beloved Mooncup is getting old and thought I'd try something new. It's nice and firm (which I like more than softer cups and that ring thing really is a game changer.

The ring pull out was especially helpful when I had fake acrylics on and I was extremely afraid to put my gargantuan nails inside my vagina, so I could just pull on the tab and get my cup out easily."