A menstrual disc is a flexible internal period product that collects menstrual flow. It sits high in the vagina, with the back rim resting in the vaginal fornix behind the cervix and the front rim tucked above the pubic bone.
To insert a menstrual disc, pinch the rim together, guide it back towards your tailbone, slide the back rim behind your cervix and tuck the front rim above your pubic bone. It can take a few attempts or cycles to learn how a disc sits in your body, so do not be discouraged if it does not feel intuitive straight away.
Reusable and disposable menstrual discs are used in a similar position, but their cleaning and disposal instructions are different. Always read the instructions supplied with your particular disc before using it.
What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc has a flexible rim and a thin bowl that collects menstrual fluid. Unlike a bell-shaped menstrual cup, it does not sit upright in the vaginal canal or rely on a cup-style seal against the vaginal walls.
The disc is positioned lengthways:
- The back rim sits in the vaginal fornix, behind the cervix.
- The bowl sits beneath the cervix to collect menstrual flow.
- The front rim tucks above the pubic bone, which helps hold the disc in place.
Some people prefer this flatter fit if a menstrual cup has not suited them. However, disc comfort and performance still depend on individual anatomy, insertion technique and the disc's diameter, shape, rim firmness and removal design.
Reusable versus disposable menstrual discs
Check which type you have before following any cleaning or reinsertion advice.
| Feature | Reusable disc | Disposable disc |
|---|---|---|
| Use | Emptied, cleaned and reused according to the manufacturer's instructions | Used once, then discarded |
| Material | Often made from medical-grade silicone, although materials vary | Usually made from a flexible polymer |
| Cleaning | Clean and disinfect only as directed for that product | Do not wash, boil or reinsert |
| Disposal | Replace when damaged or degraded, then follow local disposal guidance | Wrap and place in general waste; never flush |
Before using your menstrual disc
- Read the instructions. Disc orientation, wear time, cleaning and use of removal features vary between products.
- Identify whether the disc is reusable or disposable. Never boil or reuse a single-use disc.
- Prepare a reusable disc as directed. A new reusable disc may not be supplied sterile. Follow the manufacturer's first-use cleaning or disinfection instructions.
- Inspect the disc. Do not use it if the rim, bowl or removal feature is torn, cracked or otherwise damaged.
- Wash and dry your hands. Keep your fingernails clean and smooth to reduce the risk of scratching yourself or damaging the disc.
If you would prefer to practise before your period, read our guide to doing a menstrual disc dry run. A small amount of water-based lubricant on the insertion end may help if you experience friction or dryness, provided it is compatible with your disc.
How to insert a menstrual disc
Step 1: Find a comfortable position
Sit on the toilet, squat or stand with one leg raised. Relax your abdomen, jaw and pelvic floor. Holding your breath or rushing can cause the pelvic floor muscles to tighten.
Step 2: Identify the front and back of your disc
If your disc has a tab, loop, notch, tail or another removal feature, identify which end should face the front of your body. Check the manufacturer's instructions because removal features and asymmetrical designs are not all oriented in the same way.
Step 3: Fold the disc
Hold the disc with the bowl hanging down. Pinch the two sides of the rim together so the disc forms a long, narrow shape.
Keep the end intended for the back of your body at the insertion end. If the disc is completely symmetrical and has no directional features, it may not have a designated front or back.
Step 4: Insert the back rim
Use one hand to gently part the labia. With the other hand, guide the folded disc into the vagina and direct it back towards your tailbone rather than straight upwards.
Continue sliding it back as far as is comfortable so the back rim moves into the vaginal fornix behind the cervix. Think of scooping the disc beneath the cervix rather than pushing it towards the top of your body.
If you have a tilted uterus or your cervix points towards your back, you may need to angle the insertion end slightly down before gently scooping it back and up beneath the cervix.
Step 5: Tuck the front rim above the pubic bone
Use a clean finger to push the front rim upwards. The pubic bone may feel like a firm ledge through the front wall of the vagina. Tuck the rim above this ledge, not against it or below it.
Step 6: Check the position
Make sure the front rim feels securely tucked. If it is comfortable to do so, insert a finger and that the cervix is positioned over the disc's bowl rather than sitting vertically in the vaginal canal or outside the cervix. The thin bowl may allow you to feel the cervix through it, although this is not always easy.
Step 7: Wipe away residual blood
Some menstrual blood may remain in the vaginal canal after insertion. Wipe around the vaginal opening and labia, then check whether any spotting continues. A small initial smear does not necessarily mean the disc is leaking.
How to orient different disc designs
There is no universal rule for every disc. Use this table as a starting point, then follow the instructions supplied with your product.
| Disc design | What to check before insertion |
|---|---|
| Symmetrical round disc | If the rim and bowl are identical all the way around and there is no removal feature, either end can usually be inserted first. |
| Tab, notch or finger grip | Identify the removal end and position it at the front if instructed. Make sure it remains accessible and does not fold underneath the disc. |
| Loop or ring | Check whether the loop is designed for locating, lowering or fully removing the disc. Do not assume every loop should be pulled in the same way. |
| Stem or tail | Follow the product instructions for orientation and whether the tail should be tucked, shortened or left accessible. |
| Asymmetrical rim or variable bowl depth | Check which end the manufacturer identifies as the insertion end. The deeper side does not automatically belong at the front or back for every design. |
How do you know whether your disc is positioned correctly?
A correctly positioned disc should:
- sit beneath the cervix, with the back rim behind it
- remain tucked above the pubic bone at the front
- feel comfortable or be largely unnoticeable
- allow you to urinate and empty your bladder normally
- remain secure when you walk, cough, exercise or change position
- collect menstrual flow without ongoing leaking
If the disc immediately slides down, causes pressure or leaks soon after insertion, remove it and try again. The problem may be its position, but diameter, shape or rim firmness may also be contributing.
How long can you wear a menstrual disc?
Follow the maximum wear time stated by the manufacturer of your particular disc. Depending on the product, this may be up to 8 or 12 hours. Do not exceed 12 hours and remove the disc sooner if your flow requires it.
Emptying may be necessary more frequently on heavier days. A disc's usable capacity inside the body can also be lower than the capacity measured outside the body because the flexible bowl may become compressed.
If your disc releases some fluid while you are sitting on the toilet, this does not restart its wear time. You must still remove and clean or discard it within the period specified by the manufacturer.
Read more in How Long Can You Wear a Menstrual Cup or Disc?
How to remove a menstrual disc
Removal can be messy while you are learning. Trying it over the toilet or in the shower can make the process feel less stressful.
- Wash your hands. Use clean, dry fingers so you can maintain a secure grip.
- Choose a comfortable position. Sit on the toilet, squat or stand with one leg raised.
- Relax and bear down gently. This may bring the front rim or removal feature within easier reach.
- Lower the front rim. Hook a finger beneath the front rim, or use the disc's tab, notch, loop or tail exactly as directed by its manufacturer.
- Slide the disc forward slowly. Keep it as level as possible to reduce spilling.
- Pinch the rim near the vaginal opening. This can make the disc narrower and more comfortable to remove.
- Empty the contents. Tip reusable-disc contents into the toilet before cleaning. Wrap and discard a single-use disc in general waste.
If the disc moves higher when you try to reach it, pause. Take a few slow breaths, relax your pelvic floor and try gently bearing down again. Do not insert tweezers or other tools into the vagina.
If you cannot remove the disc after taking a break and trying again, seek assistance from a healthcare professional.
What is menstrual disc auto-dumping?
Auto-dumping is the release of some menstrual fluid when the front rim moves temporarily from behind the pubic bone, usually while you are sitting on the toilet and relaxing or bearing down.
It may be normal for you if:
- it happens only while you are using the toilet
- the disc remains comfortable and leak-free during everyday activity
- the rim returns to position or can be easily retucked afterwards
Afterwards, wipe away any residual blood and check that the front rim is tucked securely. Auto-dumping does not replace removing, cleaning or discarding the disc as directed.
See our complete guide to menstrual disc auto-dumping.
Why is your menstrual disc leaking or coming untucked?
| What happens | Possible explanation | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Leaking soon after insertion | The cervix may be sitting beside the bowl rather than over it | Remove and reinsert, directing the back rim further behind the cervix |
| A small smear after insertion | Residual blood may remain in the vaginal canal | Wipe away the blood and check whether spotting continues |
| Leaking after several hours | The disc may be full or its bowl may be compressed | Empty or replace it sooner, particularly on heavier days |
| The rim slips down during movement | It may not be fully tucked or its diameter, shape or firmness may not suit your anatomy | Recheck the position, then compare another size or design if it continues |
| Fluid releases only on the toilet | This may be auto-dumping rather than a fit problem | Retuck the rim and check that the disc remains secure afterwards |
| Bladder pressure or slow urine flow | The disc may be too large, firm or poorly positioned | Remove it and consider a smaller, softer or differently shaped disc |
For more detailed help, read Why Does My Menstrual Disc Keep Coming Untucked?
How to clean and store a reusable menstrual disc
During your period
Each time you remove a reusable disc:
- Empty the menstrual fluid into the toilet.
- Rinse the disc with clean water.
- If permitted by the manufacturer, wash it with a suitable menstrual cup and disc cleanser or a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
- Rinse thoroughly so no cleanser remains.
- Reinsert it with clean hands.
Avoid oil-based products, harsh household cleaners, bleach or fragranced products unless the manufacturer specifically permits them.
Between periods
Disinfect your reusable disc using the method and timing recommended by its manufacturer. Many silicone discs can be boiled, but boiling time and care instructions vary. Make sure the disc does not sit against the bottom of a pot that may boil dry or damage it.
Allow the disc to dry completely, then store it in its breathable pouch or another ventilated container. Do not seal a damp disc in an airtight bag or container.
When to replace or dispose of a menstrual disc
Replace a reusable menstrual disc if it:
- develops cracks, holes or tears
- becomes sticky, tacky, swollen or unusually soft
- has a damaged rim or removal feature
- develops an odour that remains after appropriate cleaning
- shows another change that the manufacturer identifies as deterioration
Staining can occur over time and does not necessarily mean a reusable disc is unclean or unsafe.
Silicone is not usually accepted in household kerbside recycling. Check with your local council or a specialist silicone recycling program. If no suitable recycling service is available, place the disc in general waste.
Disposable menstrual discs are single-use. Wrap the used disc and place it in general waste. Never flush a menstrual disc down the toilet.
Can you wear a menstrual disc during sex?
Some menstrual discs can be worn during penetrative vaginal sex and may reduce menstrual fluid, but they cannot guarantee completely mess-free sex. Check the instructions for your particular disc because some designs or removal features are not intended for use during sex.
A menstrual disc:
- is not contraception and does not prevent pregnancy
- does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
- is not interchangeable with a contraceptive diaphragm
Stop if either person experiences pain or discomfort. Check that the disc remains correctly tucked afterwards.
Can you use a menstrual disc with an IUD?
A menstrual disc does not rely on the same cup-style seal in the vaginal canal, but care is still needed if you have an intrauterine device. Research about possible IUD displacement has focused mainly on menstrual cups, so direct evidence about discs is limited. However, IUD threads may potentially be caught during insertion or removal.
Ask the healthcare professional who inserted your IUD when it is safe to resume using internal period products. When removing a disc, move slowly and stop if you feel resistance or think the threads may be caught.
Seek medical advice if you cannot feel your IUD threads, they feel longer or shorter than usual, you experience new pain or unusual bleeding, or you think the IUD may have moved.
Read our guide to using a menstrual cup or disc with an IUD.
When should you stop using your disc?
Remove the disc and seek medical advice if you experience:
- sharp, severe, worsening or persistent pain
- pain that continues after removing the disc
- difficulty urinating or fully emptying your bladder
- unusual vaginal discharge or odour
- unexplained or unusual bleeding
- a new pelvic or vaginal symptom
- repeated difficulty inserting or removing the disc
Do not use a menstrual disc for postpartum bleeding. After childbirth, pelvic surgery or another gynaecological procedure, wait until a healthcare professional advises that internal menstrual products are appropriate.
Toxic shock syndrome is very rare but serious. Remove your disc and seek urgent medical help if you develop a sudden high temperature, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, confusion, aching muscles or a red rash that resembles sunburn. In Australia, call Triple Zero (000) or go to the nearest hospital emergency department if you think you may have toxic shock syndrome.
Frequently asked questions
Should you be able to feel a menstrual disc?
A correctly positioned disc should generally feel comfortable or be largely unnoticeable. Remove it if it causes pain, strong pressure or urinary difficulty.
Can a menstrual disc get lost inside your body?
No. A disc cannot travel beyond the vagina into the rest of the body because the cervix sits at the top of the vaginal canal. It can move higher and become harder to reach, but relaxing and gently bearing down will often help bring it within reach.
Can you urinate while wearing a menstrual disc?
Yes. Urine leaves through the urethra, which has a separate opening from the vagina. If the disc slows your urine flow or makes it difficult to empty your bladder, remove it and reconsider its position, diameter or firmness.
Can you sleep, swim or exercise while wearing a menstrual disc?
Generally, yes, provided the disc is comfortable, securely positioned and used within its manufacturer's maximum wear time. Test a new disc during ordinary activity before relying on it for a long event or strenuous exercise.
Does age determine menstrual disc size?
No. Someone over 30 does not automatically need a larger menstrual disc. Disc fit depends more on individual anatomy, how securely the rim tucks above the pubic bone, the disc's diameter, shape and firmness and the person's comfort and removal preferences.
How long does it take to learn to use a menstrual disc?
Some people use a disc successfully straight away, while others need several attempts or cycles. Practising the insertion angle, learning where your pubic bone is and working out how your cervix sits can all make use easier.
Not sure why your disc isn’t working as expected? Our interactive menstrual disc troubleshooter checks insertion technique, untucking, placement, and auto-dumping before suggesting what to try next.
Still choosing your menstrual disc?
Compare diameter, capacity, firmness, shape and removal features in our Menstrual Disc Comparison Chart, or take the Find Your Best Fit Quiz for suggestions based on your anatomy, flow, experiences and preferences.
Related reading
- Menstrual Disc Comparison Chart
- How to Do a Dry Run with a Menstrual Cup or Disc
- Menstrual Disc Auto-Dumping: What It Is and Why It Happens
- Why Does My Menstrual Disc Keep Coming Untucked?
- Cups vs Discs: A Buyer's Guide on How to Choose
- Can You Use a Menstrual Cup or Disc with an IUD?
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always follow the instructions supplied with your menstrual disc and speak with a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms or concerns about your health.
Sources
- Therapeutic Goods Administration, Meeting regulatory requirements for menstrual cups in Australia
- Healthdirect Australia, Toxic shock syndrome
- Bowman N and Thwaites A, Menstrual cup and risk of IUD expulsion: a systematic review