Switching to a menstrual disc can feel intimidating at first, especially if you're used to pads or tampons. However, once you get the hang of it, you'll find that menstrual discs offer comfort, leak-free protection, and long-lasting wear. If you’re wondering how to use a menstrual disc for beginners, this guide will walk you through every step, from insertion to removal, so you can confidently make the switch.
What Is a Menstrual Disc?
A menstrual disc is a flexible, medical-grade silicone or polymer product designed to collect, rather than absorb, menstrual fluid. It sits at the vaginal fornix, just below the cervix, and can hold more blood than tampons or pads, making it an excellent option for people with heavy flows. Unlike menstrual cups, which create suction inside the vaginal canal, discs rest in place using the body's natural anatomy.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Menstrual Disc
Before learning how to use a menstrual disc for beginner, it’s important to select the right disc for your needs. Consider the following factors:
- Material: Most reusable discs are made from soft, medical-grade silicone, while disposable options use medical polymers.
- Size: Some brands offer different sizes based on cervix height and flow level.
- Firmness: A softer disc may be easier for beginners to insert and remove, while firmer discs can provide better leak protection.
Step 2: Washing and Preparing Your Disc
Before using your menstrual disc for the first time:
- Wash your hands with warm water and mild soap.
- Clean the menstrual disc with a gentle, unscented cleanser or sterilize it by boiling it in water for 3–5 minutes.
- Dry the disc and ensure it’s free from any residue before use.
Step 3: Inserting the Menstrual Disc
Now comes the part most beginners worry about—how to insert the menstrual disc properly. Follow these steps:
- Find a Comfortable Position: You can squat, put one foot on the toilet, or sit on the edge of a chair—whatever feels most natural.
- Fold the Disc: Pinch the disc in the center to create a narrow, oval shape for easier insertion.
- Insert at an Angle: Gently guide the disc into the vaginal canal at a downward angle, pointing it toward your tailbone rather than straight up.
- Tuck It in Place: Once fully inserted, use your finger to push the rim behind your pubic bone. The disc should sit snugly below the cervix, forming a seal to prevent leaks.
At first, you might need to adjust the positioning, but with practice, insertion will become easier.
Step 4: Checking for Proper Placement
If the disc is inserted correctly, you shouldn’t feel it at all. To double-check:
- Insert a clean finger and feel around the edge of the disc to ensure it is properly tucked behind the pubic bone.
- Move around, sit, or squat to ensure it stays in place.
- If you experience leaks, try reinserting the disc or adjusting the position slightly.
Step 5: Wearing the Disc
One of the biggest benefits of menstrual discs is that they provide up to 12 hours of leak-free protection. You can wear them while:
- Sleeping
- Exercising
- Swimming
- Traveling
- Engaging in intimacy (since the disc sits high in the vaginal canal, it doesn’t interfere with penetrative sex)
Step 6: Removing the Menstrual Disc
For beginners, removal can seem tricky, but it gets easier with practice. Follow these steps:
- Relax: Take a deep breath and try to stay calm. Removing a menstrual disc is easier when your muscles aren’t tense.
- Get Into Position: Squatting or sitting on the toilet can help shorten the vaginal canal, making removal easier.
- Hook the Rim: Use a clean finger to reach inside and gently hook the front rim of the disc.
- Pull It Out Slowly: Keep the disc level to avoid spills, and slowly slide it out. Some people find it helpful to do this over the toilet or in the shower.
If you’re struggling to reach the disc, try bearing down (as if you're having a bowel movement) to help push it lower.
Step 7: Cleaning and Storing Your Disc
After removal, it’s essential to clean your menstrual disc properly:
- For Reusable Discs: Rinse with cold water first to prevent staining, then wash with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. If you’re reinserting it immediately, make sure it’s thoroughly rinsed.
- For Disposable Discs: If using a single-use disc, wrap it in toilet paper and dispose of it in the trash (never flush it).
At the end of your cycle, sterilize reusable discs by boiling them for 3–5 minutes before storing them in a breathable container.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting
1. Leaks During Use
- Ensure the disc is fully tucked behind the pubic bone.
- Try repositioning or reinserting the disc if leaks persist.
2. Difficulty Inserting
- Use a water-based lubricant for smoother insertion.
- Experiment with different positions to find what works best for your body.
3. Trouble Removing the Disc
- Relax and use your pelvic muscles to push the disc lower.
- Try removal in the shower, where cleanup is easier.
Why Beginners Love Menstrual Discs
If you're wondering whether menstrual discs are worth trying, consider the following benefits:
- More Capacity: Holds more fluid than tampons and pads.
- Longer Wear Time: Up to 12 hours of protection.
- Mess-Free Period Sex: No need to remove the disc.
- Comfortable Fit: Many users don’t even feel it once inserted correctly.
- Eco-Friendly Option: Reusable discs reduce waste compared to disposable period products.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to use a menstrual disc for beginners takes some patience, but once you master the technique, it can be a game-changer for your period routine. With longer wear time, greater capacity, and an eco-friendly design, menstrual discs provide a comfortable and reliable alternative to traditional products. If you’re new to menstrual discs, start with these tips, and you’ll soon enjoy the convenience and freedom they offer!