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 into the vaginal fornix behind your cervix, then tuck the front rim above your pubic bone. A correctly positioned disc should sit beneath the cervix, remain securely tucked and feel comfortable.
It can take a few attempts or cycles to learn how a disc sits in your body. If it does not feel intuitive straight away, that does not necessarily mean a disc will not work for you.
Reusable and single-use menstrual discs sit in a similar position, but their cleaning, reuse and disposal instructions are different. Always follow the instructions supplied with your particular disc.
What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc has a flexible rim surrounding a thin bowl or reservoir that collects menstrual fluid.
Unlike a bell-shaped menstrual cup, a disc does not sit upright in the vaginal canal. Instead, it sits lengthways higher in the vagina:
- 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, helping hold the disc in place
A disc also does not rely on the same type of seal against the vaginal walls as a menstrual cup.
Some people prefer this flatter fit if a cup has not suited them, but disc comfort and performance still depend on your anatomy, insertion technique and the disc's diameter, shape, rim firmness and removal design.
Reusable vs single-use menstrual discs
Check which type of disc you have before following cleaning or reinsertion advice.
| Feature | Reusable disc | Single-use disc |
|---|---|---|
| Use | Emptied, cleaned and reused according to the manufacturer's instructions | Used once, then discarded |
| Material | Often medical-grade silicone, although materials vary | Usually a flexible polymer |
| Cleaning | Clean and sanitise 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. Orientation, wear time, cleaning and use of removal features vary between products.
- Check whether it is reusable or single-use. Never boil or reuse a single-use disc.
- Prepare a reusable disc as directed. A new reusable disc may not be supplied sterile, so follow its first-use cleaning or sanitising 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 chance of scratching yourself or damaging the disc.
If you would prefer to practise before your period, read our guide to doing a menstrual cup or 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.
Try to relax your abdomen, jaw and pelvic floor. Holding your breath, rushing or bracing can make insertion more difficult.
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: Pinch 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 feature, it may not have a designated front or back.
Step 4: Guide the back rim behind the cervix
Use one hand to gently part the labia. With the other hand, guide the folded disc into the vagina.
Aim back towards your tailbone rather than straight upwards.
Continue sliding the disc back as far as is comfortable so the back rim moves into the vaginal fornix behind the cervix.
Think of scooping the disc underneath the cervix rather than pushing it towards the top of your body.
If your cervix points towards your back or sits at an angle, you may need to adjust the insertion angle slightly before guiding the back rim behind it.
Step 5: Tuck the front rim above the pubic bone
Use a clean finger to push the front rim upwards.
The pubic bone can feel like a firm ledge through the front wall of the vagina. Tuck the rim above this ledge, rather than leaving it against or below it.
Step 6: Check the position
Make sure the front rim feels securely tucked above the pubic bone.
If it is comfortable to do so, insert a clean finger and check that the cervix is positioned over the disc's bowl rather than sitting beside it.
The thin bowl may allow you to feel the cervix through the material, although this is not always easy or necessary.
You do not need to be able to confidently identify your cervix every time you insert a disc. Comfort, secure placement and leak-free wear are also useful signs that the disc is positioned correctly.
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 see whether any spotting continues. A small smear shortly after insertion does not necessarily mean your disc is leaking.
How to orient different menstrual disc designs
There is no universal orientation rule for every disc. Use this table as a starting point, then follow the instructions supplied with your product.
| Disc design | What to check |
|---|---|
| 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 feature 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 manufacturer's instructions for orientation and whether the feature 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. |
A removal tab, loop or notch can make a disc easier to locate or control, but it does not correct a disc that is the wrong diameter, shape or firmness for your anatomy.
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, creates strong pressure or leaks soon after insertion, remove it and try again.
If the problem continues despite correct placement, the disc's diameter, shape or rim firmness may not suit your anatomy.
Does cervix height matter for menstrual discs?
Yes, but not in the same way it matters for menstrual cups.
For a menstrual cup, cervix height helps you compare cup length and reach.
For a menstrual disc, cervix height can help you understand where the disc sits and how easy it may be to reach for removal, but it does not directly determine which disc diameter you need.
Disc fit depends more on the front-to-back space between the vaginal fornix behind the cervix and the pubic bone, together with the disc's diameter, shape and rim firmness.
This means:
- a high cervix does not automatically mean you need a larger disc
- a low cervix does not automatically mean you need a smaller disc
If you want to compare specific dimensions, see our Menstrual Disc Comparison Chart.
How long can you wear a menstrual disc?
Follow the maximum wear time for your exact disc.
Many menstrual discs permit wear for up to 8 or 12 hours, but the manufacturer's instructions take priority.
Remove or empty your disc sooner if your flow requires it.
A disc's usable capacity inside your body may also be lower than the capacity measured outside the body because the flexible bowl can fold or become compressed.
If your disc releases fluid while you are sitting on the toilet, this does not restart its wear time. You must still remove and clean or discard the disc within the interval specified by the manufacturer.
Read more in How Long Can You Wear a Menstrual Cup or Disc?
What is menstrual disc auto-dumping?
Auto-dumping is when some menstrual fluid is released while you are sitting on the toilet and bearing down or relaxing, then the disc remains secure or can be retucked afterwards.
It happens when the front rim temporarily moves from behind the pubic bone and allows some fluid to escape.
It may be normal for you if:
- it happens only while you are using the toilet
- the disc remains comfortable during normal activity
- you are not leaking while walking, sleeping or exercising
- the rim returns to position or can be easily retucked afterwards
Leaking during ordinary activity is not normal auto-dumping. If your disc repeatedly releases fluid when you are not on the toilet, look at positioning and fit instead.
After auto-dumping, wipe away any residual blood and check that the front rim is securely tucked again.
Auto-dumping does not replace removing, cleaning or discarding the disc according to its instructions.
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 shortly after insertion | Residual blood may remain in the vaginal canal | Wipe away the blood and see 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 |
| Front rim repeatedly slips down | The disc may not be fully tucked or its diameter, shape or firmness may not suit your anatomy | Recheck placement, then compare another size or design if it continues |
| Fluid releases only while using 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 slower urine flow | The disc may be too large, too firm or poorly positioned | Remove it and consider a smaller, softer or differently shaped disc |
For more detailed help, use the Menstrual Disc Troubleshooter or read Why Does My Menstrual Disc Keep Coming Untucked?
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 easier to manage.
- Wash your hands. Clean, dry fingers can provide a better 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 underneath it or use the disc's tab, notch, loop or tail exactly as the manufacturer directs.
- Slide the disc forwards slowly. Try to keep it reasonably level 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 the contents of a reusable disc into the toilet before cleaning it. Wrap and discard a single-use disc in general waste.
If the disc seems to move higher when you try to reach it, pause. Take a few slow breaths, relax your pelvic floor and gently bear down again.
Do not insert tweezers or another tool into the vagina to retrieve a disc.
If you cannot remove it after taking a break and trying again, seek help from a healthcare professional.
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 mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
- Rinse thoroughly so no cleanser remains.
- Reinsert it with clean hands.
Avoid oil-based products, fragranced products, harsh household cleaners or bleach unless the manufacturer specifically permits them.
Between periods
Sanitise 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 between products. Follow the instructions for your exact disc rather than applying a generic method.
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 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 service. If no suitable recycling option is available, place the disc in general waste.
Single-use menstrual discs should be wrapped and placed in general waste after use. Never flush a menstrual disc down the toilet.
Can you wear a menstrual disc during sex?
Only use a menstrual disc during penetrative vaginal sex if the manufacturer specifically states that the product is suitable for this use.
Some discs can be worn during penetrative sex and may reduce menstrual fluid, but they cannot guarantee completely mess-free sex.
Some disc shapes or removal features may also be noticeable or unsuitable 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 and check that the disc remains correctly positioned afterwards.
Can you use a menstrual disc with an IUD?
A menstrual disc does not rely on the same cup-style seal within the vaginal canal, but care is still sensible if you have an intrauterine device.
Research into possible IUD displacement has focused mainly on menstrual cups, so direct evidence about menstrual discs remains limited.
IUD threads may also potentially be caught by fingers during insertion or removal.
Ask the healthcare professional who inserted or manages your IUD when it is appropriate to resume internal period products.
When removing a disc, move slowly and stop if you feel unexpected resistance or think the IUD threads may be caught.
Seek medical advice if:
- you cannot feel your IUD threads when you normally can
- the threads suddenly feel much longer or shorter
- you experience new pelvic pain
- you develop unusual bleeding
- 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 again.
Toxic shock syndrome is very rare but serious. Remove your disc and seek urgent medical help if you develop symptoms such as 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
How far should a menstrual disc go in?
The disc should sit high enough for the back rim to rest in the vaginal fornix behind your cervix and for the front rim to tuck above your pubic bone.
Do not judge placement simply by how far your finger has travelled. What matters is whether the disc is beneath the cervix, securely tucked and comfortable.
Can you insert a menstrual disc too far?
A disc cannot travel beyond the vagina into the rest of your body.
However, it can sit incorrectly if the back rim has not passed behind the cervix or if the front rim has not tucked above the pubic bone.
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 difficulty urinating.
Do I need to feel my cervix to use a menstrual disc?
No.
Being able to identify your cervix can help with troubleshooting, particularly if you are leaking immediately after insertion, but it is not essential for successful disc use.
Secure tucking, comfort and leak-free wear can also indicate correct placement.
Does a high cervix mean I need a larger menstrual disc?
No.
Cervix height can affect reach and placement, but disc diameter depends more on the front-to-back space between the vaginal fornix and pubic bone.
Why does my disc keep popping out from behind my pubic bone?
The front rim may not be fully tucked, or the disc may be too large, too firm or otherwise poorly matched to your internal anatomy.
If correct insertion does not solve the problem, compare another diameter, shape or rim firmness.
Use the Menstrual Disc Troubleshooter for a step-by-step check.
Can a menstrual disc get lost inside your body?
No. The cervix sits at the top of the vaginal canal, so a disc cannot travel into your abdomen.
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 exits through the urethra, which is separate from the vagina.
If your disc noticeably slows urine flow or makes it difficult to empty your bladder, remove it and reconsider its position, diameter or rim firmness.
Can you sleep, swim or exercise while wearing a menstrual disc?
Generally, yes, provided the disc is comfortable, securely positioned and used within the manufacturer's maximum wear time.
It can be useful to test a new disc during ordinary activity before relying on it for a long event, overnight wear or strenuous exercise.
Does age determine menstrual disc size?
No.
Someone over 30 does not automatically need a larger menstrual disc. Fit depends more on individual anatomy, how securely the rim tucks above the pubic bone, diameter, shape, rim firmness and comfort.
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.
Learning the insertion angle, locating your pubic bone and understanding how the disc sits beneath your cervix can make use easier with practice.
Still having trouble with your disc?
Not sure why your disc isn't working as expected? Our Menstrual Disc Troubleshooter checks insertion technique, placement, leaking, untucking and auto-dumping before suggesting what to try next.
Think the disc itself may not be the right fit? Compare diameter, capacity, firmness, shape and removal features in our Menstrual Disc Comparison Chart.
Want help narrowing your options? Take the Find Your Best Fit Quiz.
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?
- Menstrual Cups vs Discs: 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