on September 26, 2026
Curious about menstrual discs but not quite sure where to start? A disc is a reusable or disposable period product that sits high in the vaginal canal, tucked behind the pubic bone. Unlike a tampon, it collects rather than absorbs menstrual fluid. And although it can look similar to a menstrual cup, the way it sits and stays in place is different.
This beginner-friendly guide walks through how menstrual discs work, how to insert and remove one, and what to consider when deciding whether a disc is right for you.
What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc is a flexible, shallow basin with a rim. When positioned correctly, it sits in the vaginal fornix, below the cervix, with the front edge tucked behind the pubic bone. It collects menstrual fluid until you remove and empty it.
Discs come in reusable and disposable options, and sizes, firmness and removal features vary by design. Always follow the instructions for the specific disc you choose, including its wear-time and cleaning guidance.
Menstrual disc vs menstrual cup: what’s the difference?
A menstrual cup sits lower in the vaginal canal and typically relies on a seal to stay in place. A disc sits higher, around the cervix, and is held in place by its position behind the pubic bone. Neither is automatically better. The right choice depends on your anatomy, flow, comfort and what feels manageable to insert and remove.
Some women find a disc’s placement comfortable; others prefer the feel or removal method of a cup. Expect a learning curve with either option.
How to insert a menstrual disc
- Wash your hands and prepare the disc according to its instructions.
- Pinch the sides of the rim together so it becomes narrow.
- Choose a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet, squatting or standing with one leg raised.
- Guide the pinched disc into the vagina, angling it back towards your tailbone rather than straight up.
- Push the back of the disc as far back as is comfortable, then tuck the front rim up behind your pubic bone.
If it feels uncomfortable or leaks quickly, the disc may not be tucked into place or may not be positioned beneath the cervix. Remove it and try again rather than forcing it. A little practice at home, ideally on a day when you can check for leaks, can make the first few tries less stressful.
For a more detailed walkthrough, read our How To Use a Menstrual Disc guide.
Why can a menstrual disc get untucked?
A disc can slip forward when its front rim has not been tucked securely behind the pubic bone, or when the back of the disc has not been pushed far enough back. Bearing down, such as during a bowel movement, can also shift the rim; some women notice it needs to be tucked back afterwards.
Firmness can make a difference too. A softer rim may be more comfortable for some women but may not stay tucked as reliably for others, particularly if it compresses or shifts during movement. A firmer rim may be easier to position and stay in place, but it can feel too noticeable or cause pressure for some bodies. Size, shape and your anatomy matter alongside firmness, so a firmer disc is not automatically the fix.
If the rim keeps popping out, wash your hands, gently push the disc farther back and tuck the front rim up behind the pubic bone again. Check that the disc is sitting beneath your cervix rather than pressing against it. If it continues to move or leak despite careful positioning, a different size, shape or rim firmness may be worth trying. Do not force a painful fit, and speak with a healthcare professional if you have ongoing discomfort.
How to remove a menstrual disc
- Wash your hands, relax and sit on the toilet or squat.
- Reach in with a finger and find the front rim or removal feature, if your disc has one.
- Gently hook the rim and draw it out slowly, keeping it as level as possible to reduce spills.
- Empty it into the toilet. Clean a reusable disc according to its instructions before reinserting it.
If reaching the rim sounds tricky, consider a disc with a removal loop. The IRIS Reusable Menstrual Disc has a ring-pull stem, while the Hello Period Menstrual Disc has a double-looped tab. These give you something to locate and gently pull instead of hooking the rim directly. Follow the specific product’s removal instructions, and draw the disc out slowly to help reduce spills.
If the disc is hard to reach, take a breath, change position and gently bear down to bring the rim closer. Do not use tools to retrieve it. If you cannot remove it, seek help from a healthcare professional.
How long can you wear a menstrual disc?
Wear time varies by product, so check the manufacturer’s instructions and never exceed the stated limit. You may need to empty it sooner on heavier days. A disc can leak if it is full, not correctly positioned or not a good fit for your body. If you notice persistent leaking, try adjusting the placement or consider a different design.
Can a menstrual disc auto-dump?
Some women notice fluid releases from the disc when they bear down on the toilet, sometimes called “auto-dumping” or self-emptying. It does not happen for everyone or with every disc, and it is not a substitute for removing and cleaning the disc as directed. If it happens, check that the front rim is tucked back behind the pubic bone before carrying on. Unexpected leaking outside the toilet may be a sign to reassess placement or fit.
Can you wear a menstrual disc during sex?
Because a disc sits high in the vaginal canal, some designs can be worn during penetrative sex and may help reduce menstrual mess. For women looking for less-mess period intimacy, that can be a compelling reason to consider a disc, though comfort and leak protection vary by body and product.
Important: a menstrual disc is not contraception and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Can you use a menstrual disc with an IUD?
Some women use discs with an IUD, but individual circumstances matter. Because an IUD has strings that extend through the cervix, speak with your healthcare professional if you have one, particularly if you are new to internal period products or concerned about the strings. Follow your clinician’s advice on when to resume using internal products after insertion.
Cleaning and caring for a reusable disc
Wash your hands before and after handling your disc. Empty and clean it as directed by its manufacturer during your period, and follow its instructions for cleaning between cycles and storage. Avoid harsh products that the manufacturer does not recommend. Check regularly for damage or changes in the material, and replace it when the instructions advise.
Is a menstrual disc right for you?
A disc may appeal if you want a collecting option rather than an absorbent one, or if you are comparing reusable period products. Consider how comfortable you feel with insertion and removal, whether the disc’s fit works for your anatomy, and whether its cleaning routine suits your day. There is no single period product that works for everyone.
Seek medical advice if you have unusual symptoms or questions about whether an internal period product is suitable for you. This guide is general information, not personal medical advice.
