Period FAQs

how to insert period disc

by Margret Aufderhar Published 1 year ago Updated 1 year ago
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How the heck do you insert a period disc?

  1. Start by washing your hands.
  2. Assume the position. ...
  3. Remove the disc from the wrapper. ...
  4. Insert the pinched disc past your vaginal canal, down and back, completely covering your cervix.
  5. Tuck the rim of the disc above your pubic bone to minimize leaks.
  6. Whether you’re bumping uglies or doing burpees, enjoy not having to worry about changing a tampon or pad for up to 12 hours.

Squeeze the sides of the disc together, making it the size of a tampon. Insert the pinched disc pointing down and back into your vagina. You want it to sit at a vertical angle so it completely covers your cervix. Make sure you push it past the pubic bone as far as it can go so the rim tucks in just above the bone.

Full Answer

How do you insert a menstrual disc?

Insert your menstrual disc . Use one hand to part the labia and the other hand to insert your folded menstrual disc into your vagina at a 45-degree angle, aiming it towards the tailbone (not straight up). Insert the rim of the disc, past the cervix then gently push the front of the rim up and tuck it above the pubic bone.

What is a period disc ( menstrual disc)?

The period disc (aka menstrual disc) serves as a worthy challenger to the menstrual cup because it operates similarly. A period disc is inserted into the vagina and collects blood, much like a menstrual cup.

What is the best position to use a menstrual disc?

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.

Can You reuse menstrual discs?

Most menstrual discs are disposable and not meant to be reused, so they aren’t the most environmentally friendly option. If you look around, though, you can find some reusable menstrual cups that come pretty darn close in design to menstrual discs (more on these later). Are there any risks?

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How do I know if my menstrual disc is inserted properly?

When a menstrual disc is inserted correctly, it will be comfortable, leak-free, and will stay in place. If your disc causes discomfort, leaks, or slips out of place, it most likely is not in the correct position.

Will my boyfriend feel the flex disc?

With proper insertion, neither you nor your partner should be able to feel your menstrual disc during sex. This includes Flex Disc, Flex Plant+ Disc, and Flex Reusable Disc.

How far in should a menstrual disk go?

Switching to your thumb can help you get the right angle while sliding the disc down. Either way, make sure you push the disc all the way through so it fully covers your cervix. Step #3: Next, push the front rim of the disc up to tuck it behind your pubic bone. Don't hesitate to push it up as far as it would go.

Can you pee with a flex disc in?

Yes! You can pee, poop, swim, sleep, do whatever you gotta do - Flex disc will stay out of the way! Just note that if it leaks when you use the restroom that's totally normal and nothing to worry about.

Do menstrual discs empty when you pee?

What happens when you go to the bathroom with a menstrual disc? Another factor that might throw users for a loop is that discs can dump out their contents when you sit down and pee. Essentially, the posture and strain from sitting down to urinate can cause the disc to shift and empty out its contents into the toilet.

Can a guy feel a menstrual disc?

Menstrual discs don't take up any real estate in your vaginal canal, making it an ideal option for period sex. They sit at the base of your cervix just like a diaphragm, so as long as it's inserted properly, you and your partner shouldn't be able to feel it.

Are menstrual discs easier to insert?

Menstrual discs can be a lot easier to insert and use than the menstrual cup. Menstrual cups and discs both insert into the vaginal opening and collect blood but that is about where their similarities end.

Are menstrual discs better than cups?

Menstrual discs are made from silicone or a combination of body-friendly polymers of plastic and resins. Most discs are disposable, making them a less eco-friendly option than cups. For the best eco-friendly and money-saving choice, a reusable menstrual cup will last you longer than the reusable menstrual disc options.

Can you feel the flex disc?

When inserted properly, you shouldn't be able to feel Flex Disc at all. Discomfort is likely caused by the disc not being inserted quite right. This will give you a better sense of where your disc will sit and how far back it will need to be inserted.

Can you empty a flex disc without taking it out?

One of our favorite features of a menstrual disc (including Flex Disc, Flex Reusable Disc, and Flex Plant+ Disc) is the ability to empty it in the middle of the day without removing it from your body. If you're wondering, how on earth?!? Prepare to be mind-blown… Imagine you're a few hours into wearing your disc.

How do you remove a flex disk without making a mess?

Unless you're in the shower, make sure to keep the disc parallel to the floor as you remove it to avoid any accidental spillage. You can also switch hand position midway through your removal process to pinch the disc in half as it makes its way out of your body (some folks find this more comfortable).

BEFORE YOU USE A MENSTRUAL DISC

Your menstrual disc is unlikely to be supplied in a sterile state. Disinfect your menstrual cup by placing it in a pot of boiling water. Follow the manufacturers instructions the length of time to boil your disc for as this varies between brands but is usually between 3-8 minutes.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR MENSTRUAL DISC

Remove, empty and clean your menstrual disc every 8 hours* or sooner if you have a heavy flow.

WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR MENSTRUAL DISC

Your menstrual disc should be replaced if it has: cracks, holes, tears or other physical damage, developed an odour that can’t be removed with cleaning, or changed colour (other than regular staining) or texture.

HOW TO DISPOSE OF YOUR MENSTRUAL DISC

Check with the manufacturer but most cups will need to be disposed of in your household garbage if they are made of silicone as silicone is not recyclable in Australia. You can also check with your local council to see if they have a facility which handles recycling of silicone.

PRECAUTIONS

Internal period care products carry some risk. Here's what you need to know about using a menstrual disc safely;

How to fold 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”.

When choosing a menstrual disc, what are the guidelines?

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

How to use a menstrual cup?

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.

What does a disc do to your cervix?

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.

Why is it easier to use a disc or cup?

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.

Is a disc inserted with a low cervix comfortable?

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.

Can a menstrual disc be removed?

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.

Why do people use discs during periods?

In fact, some patients have said using a menstrual disc helped them feel more comfortable with their body during periods and shook the stigma of menstrual blood or vaginas being dirty or shameful , she adds. (Related: 6 Things to Know About Menstrual Cups and Exercise.)

How to remove a menstrual disc?

To remove your menstrual disc, it's best to sit over the toilet and relax your muscles. Slide a finger under the front rim and pull straight down while keeping the disc parallel to the toilet bowl. FYI, this will likely be messy, hence your position over the toilet . Empty the disc into the toilet and then throw away (if disposable) ...

What is the difference between a menstrual cup and a menstrual disc?

To point out the obvious: a menstrual cup is shaped like a cup and a menstrual disc is shaped like, yep, a disc. A menstrual disc is made of two parts: a thicker silicone rim and an attached plastic ...

Why are menstrual cups held in place?

Because menstrual discs sit in the upper vagina and are at an angle, they may be more challenging to put into place initially, says Dr. Thompson. Menstrual discs and cups both create a seal against the vaginal walls. However, menstrual cups use suction to remain in place, while a menstrual disc is held in place behind the pubic bone.

How long can a menstrual disc be left in place?

They can therefore be safely left in place for up to 12 hours , says Dr. Elborno.

Where do menstrual cups sit?

Beyond the shape variations, menstrual cups sit in the vaginal canal to collect blood, while menstrual discs sit higher at the base of the cervix, says Dana Elborno, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. In terms of positioning, a menstrual cup is like a tampon in that both sit in the vaginal canal.

How to make a disc squat?

Step 1: Pinch the disc's rim to fold it in half. It's smaller than a tampon when it's folded. Step 2: Take a deep breath and play around with what position you need your body to be in — sitting over the toilet, with your leg up on the seat, or in a full squat are possibilities.

How long should you wear a disc?

To check the position of your disc, stand up, keeping your index finger on the rim of the disc. You can wear up to 12 hours before emptying .

How to get rid of a swollen disc?

First, relax your pelvic muscles and bear down like you are having a bowel movement. Hook your index finger under the front rim of the disc. Then, gently slide the disc out, keeping it horizontal to avoid spills.

What to do if you can't remove a disc?

If you cannot remove your disc, don’t worry, take a break and revisit once you are more relaxed.

What does the groove on a disc mean?

Squeeze the disc to form a figure 8. The finger-width groove indicates the front of your disc, which should be facing away from your body when it is inserted.

How to insert a disc?

Here’s a step-by-step on how to insert it: First things first, wash your hands — it’s going in a delicate place after all! Get into whichever position works for you.

What is a menstrual disc?

A menstrual disc is an insertable alternative period product that’s supposed to provide 12 hours of protection, let you have mess-free sex on your period, and even help minimize cramps. What a time to be alive. Here’s what you need to know about them before taking the plunge.

How are menstrual cups and discs similar?

Menstrual discs and cups are very similar in that they’re inserted into the vagina and collect blood. To make things more confusing, one of the first disposable menstrual cups on the market has since been rebranded as a menstrual disc, which totally makes more sense when you break down the features of each. Cups look like cups, while discs look ...

What is the difference between a cup and a disc?

Cups look like cups, while discs look like, well, discs. A cup sits in your vagina below your cervix and extends into your canal, depending on the type or brand you choose. A disc, on the other hand, fits back into your vaginal fornix, which is where your vaginal canal meets your cervix.

How long can you wear a menstrual disc?

Menstrual discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, though you might need to change them more often depending on your flow.

Do menstrual discs need to be changed?

Menstrual discs can handle a heavy flow, but you’ll have to change the discs more often throughout the day.

Is a menstrual cup disposable?

This is where the menstrual cup wins in the cup versus disc debate. Most menstrual discs are disposable and not meant to be reused, so they aren’t the most environmentally friendly option.

How the heck do you insert a period disc?

If inserting a period disc feels like you’re putting a foreign object into your vagina, it’s because you are. The process can feel a bit uncomfortable at first and may require some practice, but once inserted, a period disc can feel more comfortable to wear than a tampon.

What is a period disc?

A period disc is an insertable product designed to provide up to 12 hours of protection during your period. It can also be worn during period sex for some blood-free freaking (unless you’re into that — we don’t judge!). And move over, Midol. The period disc can also minimize cramps.

How do you remove a period disc?

Before you panic that you’re gonna get a period disc stuck inside you, breathe. Removing a period disc requires a steady hand.

Can you get busy with a period disc?

As hormones fluctuate during your menstrual cycle, you may notice an increase in your libido when the “red ride” rolls in. One of the period disc’s main advantages over its counterparts is mess-free period sex.

Does a period disc work for working out?

While some may argue sex is the most impressive physical activity to accomplish with a period disc, what about other movements like swimming or running?

Is a period disc a good idea with an IUD?

The last thing you want to do is dislodge your IUD. But period discs are most likely safe to use with an IUD.

Do period discs send cramps packing?

While you’ll see many reviews claiming period discs reduce period pain, there’s not enough evidence to prove they reduce period cramps.

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