How to use a menstrual disc

The AllMatters menstrual disc is a soft, flexible alternative to pads and tampons. Instead of absorbing your flow, it collects it, allowing you to go about your day without frequent changes. It sits comfortably at the base of your cervix and is made from 100% medical-grade silicone—designed for both comfort and reliability.

What Is a Menstrual Disc?

A menstrual disc is a flexible, round period product that sits higher in the vaginal canal than a menstrual cup, tucked behind the pubic bone. Unlike tampons or pads that absorb menstrual fluid, a disc collects it, offering longer wear time and less leakage.

How Does a Menstrual Disc Differ from a Menstrual Cup?

  • Shape & Position: A menstrual disc is flat and sits at the base of the cervix, while a cup is bell-shaped and sits lower in the vaginal canal, forming a suction seal.
  • Removal: To remove a disc, hook a finger under the front rim and pull it out. A cup requires pinching the base to release suction before removing.
  • Sex Compatibility: Menstrual discs allow for mess-free period sex, while menstrual cups do not.

How Does a Menstrual Disc Differ from a Menstrual Cup?

  • Shape & Position: A menstrual disc is flat and sits at the base of the cervix, while a cup is bell-shaped and sits lower in the vaginal canal, forming a suction seal.
  • Removal: To remove a disc, hook a finger under the front rim and pull it out. A cup requires pinching the base to release suction before removing.
  • Sex Compatibility: Menstrual discs allow for mess-free period sex, while menstrual cups do not.

How to Insert a Menstrual Disc

1. Wash Your Hands

Always start with clean hands to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina.

2. Fold the Disc

Pinch the disc into a narrow shape, like a figure-eight or an oval.

3. Slide It In

Angle the disc downward and back toward your tailbone, then insert it into your vaginal canal.

4. Tuck It Behind the Pubic Bone

Once fully inside, tuck the front rim securely behind the pubic bone to keep it in place.

Pro tip: Wetting the disc with water before inserting can make insertion easier and more comfortable.

How to Insert a Menstrual Disc

1. Wash Your Hands

Always start with clean hands to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina.

2. Fold the Disc

Pinch the disc into a narrow shape, like a figure-eight or an oval.

3. Slide It In

Angle the disc downward and back toward your tailbone, then insert it into your vaginal canal.

4. Tuck It Behind the Pubic Bone

Once fully inside, tuck the front rim securely behind the pubic bone to keep it in place.

Pro tip: Wetting the disc with water before inserting can make insertion easier and more comfortable.

How to Remove a Menstrual Disc

1. Wash Your Hands Again

Clean hands help prevent infections.

2. Hook a Finger Under the Front Rim

Gently reach inside and hook your finger under the front rim of the disc.

3. Pull It Out Slowly

Tilt the disc slightly to keep the fluid inside as you remove it.

4. Empty, Rinse, and Reinsert or Store

Dump the collected fluid into the toilet, rinse the disc with warm water, and reinsert if needed.

How to Remove a Menstrual Disc

1. Wash Your Hands Again

Clean hands help prevent infections.

2. Hook a Finger Under the Front Rim

Gently reach inside and hook your finger under the front rim of the disc.

3. Pull It Out Slowly

Tilt the disc slightly to keep the fluid inside as you remove it.

4. Empty, Rinse, and Reinsert or Store

Dump the collected fluid into the toilet, rinse the disc with warm water, and reinsert if needed.

Common Questions About Menstrual Discs

Can the Disc Get Lost Inside Me?

No! Your cervix acts as a natural barrier—nothing can go beyond it. If the disc feels out of reach, try bearing down with your pelvic muscles to lower it for easier removal.

How Long Can I Wear a Menstrual Disc?

You can wear a disc for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. On heavier days, you may need to empty it every 4–6 hours.

Will It Leak?

When positioned correctly, the disc shouldn’t leak. It holds up to 50ml of fluid—about six regular tampons' worth! If you experience leaks, try:

  • Ensuring the rim is tucked securely behind the pubic bone.
  • Making sure it’s fully unfolded after insertion.
  • Emptying it more frequently if your flow is heavy.
Can I Have Sex While Wearing the Disc?

Yes! Unlike menstrual cups, a disc sits high enough in the vagina that it doesn’t take up space. Many people find penetrative sex more comfortable and less messy with a disc. However, it is not a contraceptive and does not protect against STIs.

Is It Comfortable?

Most users say they can’t feel the disc once it’s in place. If you do notice discomfort, try adjusting its position or using a water-based lubricant during insertion.

Common Questions About Menstrual Discs

Can the Disc Get Lost Inside Me?

No! Your cervix acts as a natural barrier—nothing can go beyond it. If the disc feels out of reach, try bearing down with your pelvic muscles to lower it for easier removal.

How Long Can I Wear a Menstrual Disc?

You can wear a disc for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. On heavier days, you may need to empty it every 4–6 hours.

Will It Leak?

When positioned correctly, the disc shouldn’t leak. It holds up to 50ml of fluid—about six regular tampons' worth! If you experience leaks, try:

  • Ensuring the rim is tucked securely behind the pubic bone.
  • Making sure it’s fully unfolded after insertion.
  • Emptying it more frequently if your flow is heavy.
Can I Have Sex While Wearing the Disc?

Yes! Unlike menstrual cups, a disc sits high enough in the vagina that it doesn’t take up space. Many people find penetrative sex more comfortable and less messy with a disc. However, it is not a contraceptive and does not protect against STIs.

Is It Comfortable?

Most users say they can’t feel the disc once it’s in place. If you do notice discomfort, try adjusting its position or using a water-based lubricant during insertion.

How to Clean and Store a Menstrual Disc

  • During your cycle: Rinse with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water after each removal.
  • Between cycles: Boil the disc in water for 3–5 minutes to sanitize it.
  • Storage: Keep it in a breathable pouch or case—avoid airtight containers or damp spaces.

How to Clean and Store a Menstrual Disc

  • During your cycle: Rinse with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water after each removal.
  • Between cycles: Boil the disc in water for 3–5 minutes to sanitize it.
  • Storage: Keep it in a breathable pouch or case—avoid airtight containers or damp spaces.

Additional FAQs

Can I Use a Menstrual Disc If I Have an IUD?

Yes, many people with IUDs use menstrual discs without issues. Just be mindful when removing the disc to avoid pulling on the IUD strings. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor.

Can I Use the Bathroom While Wearing It?

Yes! Since it sits separately from the urethra, you can pee normally. If it shifts after a bowel movement, simply check its position and adjust if needed.

Is It Environmentally Friendly?

Absolutely! A reusable menstrual disc produces significantly less waste than disposable pads and tampons. With proper care, it can last for years, making it a sustainable period option.

Do I Need to Choose a Size?

No, the AllMatters menstrual disc is one-size-fits-most, designed to accommodate different cervix heights and body types. If you have specific concerns, your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice.

Additional FAQs

Can I Use a Menstrual Disc If I Have an IUD?

Yes, many people with IUDs use menstrual discs without issues. Just be mindful when removing the disc to avoid pulling on the IUD strings. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor.

Can I Use the Bathroom While Wearing It?

Yes! Since it sits separately from the urethra, you can pee normally. If it shifts after a bowel movement, simply check its position and adjust if needed.

Is It Environmentally Friendly?

Absolutely! A reusable menstrual disc produces significantly less waste than disposable pads and tampons. With proper care, it can last for years, making it a sustainable period option.

Do I Need to Choose a Size?

No, the AllMatters menstrual disc is one-size-fits-most, designed to accommodate different cervix heights and body types. If you have specific concerns, your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice.