How To Use a Menstrual Disc – Everything You Need to Know!

Folding a menstrual Disc

Folding a menstrual disc is much less complicated than folding a menstrual cup.  Simple hold the disc’s rim and pinch the center together making the two sides meet.  The rim will look like an “8”.

Inserting a Menstrual Disc

When learning to use a menstrual disc or cup, the best position to be in is a squat on the ground or in the tub. This rolls your pelvis forward and provides you easy access.  It also helps you insert the disc or cup in a downward angle toward your tailbone.

Positioning a Menstrual Disc

Vaginal fornix

The disc should slide next to the cervix into the vaginal fornix nearest to the rectum.  This is the area around your cervix which allows the vagina to expand upwards to accommodate a variety of shapes and sizes.

Pubic bone

The remaining side of the disc should be inserted completely and then tucked above the pubic bone.  You can find this bone by inserting a finger, palm side up, and curling the finger up towards your bladder.  The hard mass is your pubic bone.

No suction

The disc will create a seal under your cervix to collect your menstrual flow.  Unlike menstrual cups, a disc will not create a suction during removal.

Removing a Menstrual Disc

To remove a menstrual disc, insert your pointer finger and find the rim above the pubic bone.  Hook your fingertip under the rim and gently pull down.

Again, the Unique Menstrual Disc features a stem that can be used to locate the rim.  Though it may help dislodge the disc from the pubic bone, it is very long and thin and should not be used to remove the disc completely.

The motion of removing a menstrual disc is a lot less complicated than removing a menstrual cup, but it can be quite a bit messier.  The contents may gush out as soon as the disc is dislodged from above the pubic bone and the seal is broken.  In all of the years that I’ve used a disc, I have not found a less messy way to remove one.

Pros of Using Menstrual Discs

Easy to use – It may be easier to get the hang of using a disc rather than a cup because there are fewer folds to try and fewer steps to be aware of while inserting it.

Can be worn during period/sex – While most menstrual cups are advised to be removed, a disc can be worn during your period to have mess-free penetrative intercourse.

Comfortable for even very low cervix – Since a disc is positioned differently while inserted, it may be comfortable for individuals who have a low to a very low cervix.  The thin, flexible reservoir should not be felt or detected by the user or their partner.

Cons of Using Menstrual Discs

Very messy – Although easier to use than a menstrual cup at first, a disc can be a lot messier during removal.  As soon as the disc is dislodged from above the pubic bone and the seal is broken, the contents will gush out of the only exit that it can.  There’s no getting around having your hand in the direct path of your collected menstrual flow.

Doesn’t hold as much as stated – Since most of the collection reservoirs are very thin and lightweight, they may not expand to hold the high capacity stated by each company.

Prone to leaking – It’s reported by some users that they can empty their cup without touching or removing it by bearing down with their pelvic floor muscles while on the toilet.  However, the same thing can involuntarily happen by coughing, sneezing, laughing, standing from a sit or squat, or carrying heavy items.

Conclusion

When choosing a menstrual disc, some menstrual cup guidelines may be used.  The height of your cervix (for the Unique Disc), and if you frequently experience bladder or bowel sensitivity may help narrow down which disc might be right for you

Menstrual discs can provide long-lasting period protection depending on your flow.  However, individuals with heavier periods might need to empty their disc more frequently and may be more prone to leaks.  They can still be a great alternative to other menstrual products for mess-free penetrative intercourse.