A menstrual disc is an alternative period product that collects fluid high up in the vaginal fornix, the wide space at the end of the vaginal canal. Unlike traditional cups, the disc is held in place by tucking its front rim securely behind the pubic bone, meaning the removal process requires a specific technique. This guide outlines the proper steps for safe, efficient, and clean removal.
Preparation and Positioning
Before attempting removal, thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 to 30 seconds to prevent introducing bacteria. The most important step is to relax your body and pelvic floor muscles. Being tense or anxious can cause the vaginal canal to tighten, making the disc difficult to reach.
Finding the correct physical stance will significantly shorten the vaginal canal, bringing the disc closer to the entrance for easier access. Sitting on the toilet is often sufficient, but a deep squat or standing with one leg elevated on a stable surface (like the toilet rim or bathtub edge) can be more effective. These positions use gravity and muscle relaxation to your advantage. Taking a few deep breaths can help you relax your muscles before starting.
Step-by-Step Removal Technique
The first step involves using your pelvic floor muscles to gently push the disc forward, similar to bearing down during a bowel movement. This action helps dislodge the front rim from behind the pubic bone, often called “breaking the seal.” Apply only gentle pressure to encourage the disc to slide down slightly.
Once the disc has moved forward, insert a clean finger (usually the index or middle finger) to locate the rim. The most common technique is to hook your finger underneath the front rim, or into a specific removal notch if available. For a firmer grip, some users try a two-finger pinch technique, using the thumb and index finger to grasp the rim.
With a secure hold, pull the disc out slowly and horizontally, keeping the rim parallel to the floor as much as possible. Keeping the disc level during exit is the primary way to minimize spillage. Once the disc is completely out, empty the collected fluid into the toilet, and then proceed with cleaning or disposal.
Troubleshooting Difficult Removal
If you cannot immediately feel the disc’s rim or if it seems too high to reach, first ensure you are fully relaxed. Try switching to a deeper squat position to maximize the shortening of the vaginal canal. The disc cannot get truly “lost” inside the body, as the cervix acts as a barrier, but it can shift higher in the fornix.
Continue using the bearing down technique gently and in short bursts; this can help inch the disc toward the vaginal entrance. If repeated attempts are unsuccessful, take a break for 30 minutes to an hour, distract yourself, and try again when you are calmer. The disc may sit lower later in your cycle as the cervix position changes, sometimes making removal easier near the end of your period.
If you have tried multiple positions and techniques over several hours and are still unable to remove the disc, contact a healthcare professional for assistance. Seeking medical help ensures safe removal and is important if the disc has been worn for more than the recommended 12 hours.
Post-Removal Care and Hygiene
After removing the disc and emptying its contents, the next step depends on whether the product is reusable or single-use. If using a disposable disc, wrap it in toilet paper or a disposal pouch and immediately place it in the trash bin. Disposable discs must never be flushed.
For reusable discs, the product must be cleaned before reinsertion or storage. First, rinse the disc with cold water to help prevent staining. Follow this with a thorough wash using a mild, unscented, oil-free soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, antibacterial soaps, or strong fragrances, as these can degrade the material and potentially irritate the vaginal environment.
Between cycles, reusable discs should undergo deeper sanitization, typically by boiling them in water for five to ten minutes. Once cleaned and sanitized, allow the disc to air-dry completely before storing it in a breathable pouch or container until the next cycle. Always re-wash your hands thoroughly after handling the used disc.