Getting Started
Using a menstrual disc for the first time might feel intimidating, but with the right guidance it can become as routine as using a tampon. This comprehensive guide will walk you through inserting, wearing, and removing a menstrual disc step by step. We’ll also address common first-timer concerns, troubleshooting tips for any hiccups, and how discs compare to cups and tampons.
Inserting Your Menstrual Disc
Wash Your Hands
Wash Your Hands
Always start with clean hands to maintain good vaginal hygiene. Use soap and water to remove bacteria and prevent infections.
Find a Comfortable Position
Find a Comfortable Position
Choose a posture that helps relax and widen your vaginal opening. Many first-time users find it easiest to:
• Squat down
• Sit on the toilet with knees apart
• Stand with one leg propped up on the bathtub or toilet seat
Take a few deep breaths to relax your pelvic floor muscles—staying calm makes insertion easier.
Fold and Insert the Disc
Fold and Insert the Disc
Unlike menstrual cups, which rely on suction, a menstrual disc stays in place by tucking behind the pubic bone. Here’s how:
1. Pinch the disc in the middle so it becomes long and narrow.
2. Insert it into your vagina at a horizontal angle (not straight up like a tampon).
3. Once inserted, push the rim up and tuck it behind your pubic bone.
👉 Tip: Using a water-based lubricant can make insertion easier, especially for beginners.
Insert the Disc (Aim Down and Back)
Insert the Disc (Aim Down and Back)
Using one hand to part your labia, use your other hand to gently push the folded disc into your vagina at a downward angle (toward your tailbone). If you feel resistance, adjust the angle slightly and try again.
Tuck the Front Rim Behind Your Pubic Bone
Tuck the Front Rim Behind Your Pubic Bone
Once the disc is inside, use a finger to push the front rim up behind your pubic bone. This secures it in place. When correctly positioned, the disc should sit at the base of your cervix in the vaginal fornix.
Check for Comfort
Check for Comfort
Stand up and move around a bit. You shouldn’t feel pain—if you do, the disc may not be positioned correctly. Try readjusting it by pushing it further in or ensuring it’s tucked securely behind the pubic bone.
Wearing the Menstrual Disc
How Long Can You Wear It?
How Long Can You Wear It?
• A menstrual disc provides up to 12 hours of leak-free protection.
• It holds more than six super tampons worth of menstrual fluid, meaning fewer changes throughout the day.
How do you know it's in place?
How do you know it's in place?
• If inserted correctly, you won’t feel it at all.
• No leaks? You’re good to go! If you experience leaking, try adjusting the position by ensuring the front rim is securely tucked behind the pubic bone.
💡 Bonus: Unlike menstrual cups, menstrual discs allow for mess-free period sex! Because they sit at the vaginal fornix, they don’t block penetration, making them a great option for those who want to have sex while on their period.
Removing Your Menstrual Disc
Wash Your Hands and Relax
Wash Your Hands and Relax
Find a comfortable position again—sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg up. Relax your pelvic muscles to make removal easier.
Bear Down (Gently)
Bear Down (Gently)
If the disc has moved up higher, gently bear down (like you’re having a bowel movement). This engages your pelvic floor muscles and pushes the disc lower.
Hook and Remove the Disc
Hook and Remove the Disc
• Insert one finger and hook it under the front rim.
• Gently pull it out, keeping it level to prevent spills.
• Empty the fluid into the toilet or sink.
Rinse and Reinsert
Rinse and Reinsert
• Wash the disc with warm water and mild soap.
• If in a public restroom, use a sanitizing wipe or toilet paper and rinse later.
• If your period has ended, boil the disc for 3-5 minutes before storing it.
Trips for First Time Disc Users
Here are all our best tips and tricks for beginners.
Practice Before your Period
Practice Before your Period
If this is your first time using a menstrual disc, it can help to practice inserting and removing it when you’re not on your period. This way, you can get familiar with the process without worrying about leaks.
Insertion Takes a Few Tries – And That’s Okay!
Insertion Takes a Few Tries – And That’s Okay!
If your disc doesn’t feel comfortable the first time, don’t panic! You might need to adjust the way you insert it. Try changing your position or angling the disc differently. Some people find it easier to insert while squatting, while others prefer sitting.
Use a Backup Liner in the Beginning
Use a Backup Liner in the Beginning
During your first few cycles, you might want to wear a pantyliner or light pad as backup protection until you’re confident in your technique. Once you’ve mastered the placement, leaks should no longer be an issue.
Try to Locate Your Cervix for Better Placement
Try to Locate Your Cervix for Better Placement
Your cervix is the small, round opening at the top of your vaginal canal. Some people’s cervix sits lower, which can affect disc placement. If you’re unsure whether your disc is positioned correctly, try inserting a clean finger to check if:
• Your cervix is inside the disc (not next to it)
• The front rim is securely tucked behind your pubic bone
Don't Be Afraid to Get Messy
Don't Be Afraid to Get Messy
The first few times might be a little messy—and that’s okay! Don’t let it discourage you. Over time, you’ll figure out the best removal technique to keep things cleaner.
Pro Tips for Less Mess:
✔️ Remove in the shower for easy cleanup
✔️ Use toilet paper to catch drips
✔️ Keep the disc horizontal while removing it
It Gets Easier with Time
It Gets Easier with Time
Most people master disc use after a couple of cycles. The key is practice and patience. Before you know it, inserting and removing a disc will feel effortless.
Take a Deep Breath and Relax
Take a Deep Breath and Relax
Your pelvic muscles play a big role in inserting and removing a menstrual disc. If you’re tensed up, it can be harder to place or remove. Taking slow, deep breaths before and during the process will help your body stay relaxed.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even with the best instructions, you might encounter some hiccups when you actually use the disc. Here are common issues first-time users face and how to solve them:
It’s Leaking!
It’s Leaking!
Leaks usually mean the disc isn’t positioned correctly. Ensure the front rim is securely behind the pubic bone and the cervix is fully covered. Try a kegel or bear down, then retuck the disc. If leaks happen only when using the toilet, it’s the “auto-dump” feature—just readjust afterward. If the disc is full, empty and reinsert. With time, you’ll learn when to empty based on your flow.
I Can’t Get It In (or it Hurts)
I Can’t Get It In (or it Hurts)
Tension and angle are key. Relax, take deep breaths, or try after a warm shower. Pinch the disc tightly, use lube, and insert at an angle toward the tailbone. If you hit the cervix, pull back slightly and adjust. Try different positions like squatting. Practicing with your finger first can help.
Removal is Difficult – It Feels Stuck
Removal is Difficult – It Feels Stuck
The disc can’t get stuck, but it might sit high. Relax and bear down to lower it. Try squatting or lifting one leg to shorten the vaginal canal. Hook a finger under the rim and pull forward and down. Keep it level to avoid spills. Removing in the shower or over the toilet can help. With practice, it gets easier.
It Feels Uncomfortable or I Feel Pressure
It Feels Uncomfortable or I Feel Pressure
A well-placed disc should feel unnoticeable. If it’s uncomfortable, push the front rim higher behind the pubic bone. If it presses on the cervix, adjust so it sits below it.
Removal Gets Messy – How Do I Avoid Spills?
Removal Gets Messy – How Do I Avoid Spills?
Discs can be messier than cups. Remove in the shower or over the toilet, keeping it horizontal and removing it slowly. Wiggle it out gently and use toilet paper to catch drips. With practice, you’ll find the best technique to minimize spills.
