A menstrual disc is a flexible, circular product designed to collect menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it, offering an alternative to traditional tampons and pads. It is placed high in the vaginal fornix, the widest part of the vaginal canal, and held in place by tucking its front rim behind the pubic bone. A unique and often appreciated feature of this product is “auto-dumping,” which refers to the disc’s ability to partially empty itself into the toilet without manual removal while the user is using the restroom.
Understanding How Auto-Dumping Works
The mechanism behind auto-dumping involves anatomy, positioning, and muscle relaxation. A properly inserted menstrual disc rests horizontally, with its flexible rim secured by the pubic bone, which acts as an anchor. This deep positioning allows the disc to be slightly dislodged without falling out completely, unlike a menstrual cup which relies on suction.
When sitting on the toilet, the pelvic floor muscles naturally relax. This relaxation, coupled with gentle bearing down, causes the vaginal canal to widen and the pubic bone to shift slightly. This movement briefly releases the disc’s front rim, allowing it to tilt. Gravity then causes some collected fluid to spill into the toilet bowl. Once the muscles relax and the person stands up, the disc typically settles back into its secure position.
Step-by-Step Guide to Triggering the Auto-Dump
Triggering the auto-dump intentionally requires mimicking the natural muscle movements that occur during toileting. Sit comfortably on the toilet, ensuring the hips and pelvic floor are relaxed to encourage the disc’s slight shift. A slight lean forward can help align the vaginal canal with the toilet bowl, optimizing the path for the fluid to exit cleanly.
The key action is gentle bearing down, similar to the light pressure used during urination or a bowel movement. This contracts the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, pushing the disc’s rim forward and down to release it from the pubic bone. Use only mild, controlled pressure; straining forcefully is unnecessary and risks discomfort or complete expulsion.
After the fluid releases, stop bearing down immediately and allow your pelvic floor muscles to return to their resting state. Standing up often helps the disc naturally tuck itself back into its secure spot. If you are unsure, use a clean finger to gently push the front rim up until it secures itself behind the pubic bone again. This action allows you to extend the disc’s wear time, particularly on heavier flow days.
Troubleshooting Common Auto-Dumping Issues
If the disc will not empty, it may be due to a snug fit or a strong pelvic floor. Some people have a robust pubic bone “shelf” that holds the rim securely, or their disc size minimizes available space for a shift. Try bearing down slightly longer or adjusting your sitting posture, such as squatting or leaning back.
To prevent an unwanted auto-dump during activities like heavy lifting, coughing, or intense exercise, consciously engage your pelvic floor muscles. Performing a gentle Kegel contraction before and during moments of increased abdominal pressure helps hold the disc more firmly in place, preventing the slight dislodging that leads to leakage.
After a successful auto-dump, some users notice minor spotting caused by residual fluid. This happens because only a portion of the fluid is released, and the disc may not fully re-tuck immediately. If this occurs, gently sweeping a clean finger along the front of the disc and re-tucking the rim firmly behind the pubic bone is sufficient to resolve post-dump spotting.