A menstrual disc is a flexible, bowl-shaped device designed to collect menstrual fluid inside the body, offering an alternative to tampons and pads. Unlike a menstrual cup, which uses suction and sits lower in the vaginal canal, the disc is positioned higher up in the vaginal fornix, the wider area just beneath the cervix. The rim of the disc is secured behind the pubic bone, which holds it in place without relying on a vacuum seal. This unique placement means the removal technique differs significantly from other internal products. Understanding the precise steps for emptying the disc is paramount to minimizing mess and ensuring a comfortable experience.
Preparing for Removal
Thorough preparation is the first step toward a mess-free removal, starting with hygiene. Before inserting a finger into the vagina, it is important to wash hands completely with warm water and a mild soap for at least 30 seconds. This minimizes the transfer of external bacteria to the vaginal environment, protecting the delicate internal microbiome.
Choosing the correct location for removal significantly reduces the potential for spills. Many users find the most success by removing the disc while sitting on the toilet, allowing the contents to empty directly into the bowl. For beginners, removing the disc while standing in the shower provides a splash-friendly zone where any accidental spillage is easily washed away.
Getting into a comfortable and effective body position helps lower the disc for easier access. Common positions include sitting on the toilet, squatting low, or standing with one leg elevated. These positions naturally shorten the vaginal canal and bring the disc closer to the opening. Relaxing the pelvic floor muscles is also beneficial, as tension can cause the disc to sit higher and make it harder to reach.
Step-by-Step Removal Technique
Once in position, the next step is to locate the rim of the disc, which is tucked securely behind the pubic bone. Gently bearing down, similar to the muscle engagement during a bowel movement, can help to nudge the disc forward. This slight engagement causes the disc’s rim to dislodge from the pubic bone, bringing it lower and making it easier to reach.
The primary removal technique involves inserting a clean finger, typically the index or middle finger, and hooking it under the front rim of the disc. For discs with a removal notch or loop, hooking the finger through or behind this aid provides better leverage. The key difference from a menstrual cup removal is that the disc should be pulled out horizontally, rather than vertically, to keep the rim level.
As the disc is pulled out, the user must maintain a level orientation to prevent the collected fluid from spilling prematurely. Once the disc is close to the vaginal opening, many people find it helpful to use the thumb and index finger to pinch the rim for a more secure grip. This final pinch and horizontal pull allows the disc to be completely removed from the body and emptied directly into the toilet.
Troubleshooting Common Removal Issues
The primary concern for many disc users is managing the “mess factor,” which is often unavoidable due to the disc’s suction-free, shallow design. To minimize spillage, the disc should be removed slowly and deliberately, keeping it parallel to the floor or angled slightly upward to contain the contents. Practicing the first few removals in the shower allows for a low-stress environment where any mess can be immediately rinsed away.
Difficulty in reaching the disc is another common obstacle, especially for those with a higher cervix. If the disc seems out of reach, engaging the pelvic muscles by bearing down can shift the disc lower and make the rim accessible. Relaxing completely is also important, as muscle tension can pull the disc higher into the vaginal fornix. Trying a different position, such as a deep squat, can sometimes be enough to reposition the disc.
A phenomenon unique to discs is “autodumping,” where a partial amount of fluid empties when using the toilet. This occurs because bearing down during urination or a bowel movement temporarily dislodges the disc’s rim from the pubic bone. While this can extend wear time by self-emptying, it sometimes results in residual blood upon wiping. After an autodump, the disc usually repositions itself, but users may need to gently push the rim back up behind the pubic bone to ensure a secure fit.
Cleaning and Storage Procedures
After successfully removing and emptying the disc, immediate cleaning is necessary before reinsertion or storage. The first step should always be to rinse the disc with cold water. Cold water helps to remove the menstrual blood and prevents staining from setting into the silicone or polymer material.
Following the cold rinse, the disc should be washed with warm water and a mild cleanser. It is important to use a mild, unscented, oil-free, and fragrance-free soap, as harsh chemicals or oils can degrade the disc material and potentially cause vaginal irritation or disrupt the natural pH balance. The disc must be thoroughly rinsed after washing to ensure no soap residue remains before reinsertion.
At the end of the menstrual cycle, before long-term storage, the disc requires sterilization to eliminate any remaining bacteria. This is typically achieved by placing the disc in a pot of boiling water for five to ten minutes, ensuring it does not rest against the bottom of the pot. After sterilization, the disc must be completely air-dried before being placed into a breathable storage pouch, such as one made of cotton. Storing the disc in an airtight container should be avoided, as this can encourage moisture buildup and bacterial growth.