A menstrual disc is a flexible, ring-shaped device designed to be worn internally to collect menstrual fluid. It offers a comfortable and sustainable alternative to traditional pads and tampons, often providing up to twelve hours of wear time. Its unique placement relies on anatomical structures for proper positioning rather than the muscle walls of the vaginal canal. Understanding where a menstrual disc sits is the first step toward achieving a comfortable and leak-free experience.
Anatomical Anchoring: The Role of the Pubic Bone
The menstrual disc is designed to sit high up in the vagina, specifically within the vaginal fornix. The fornix is the deepest part of the vaginal canal that surrounds the cervix. The disc’s back rim tucks behind the cervix, positioning the collection basin directly beneath the opening of the uterus.
The structure that anchors the disc is the pubic bone, or pubic symphysis. The front rim must be pushed up and locked behind this bony ridge at the front of the pelvis. This mechanical anchoring keeps the disc stable, holding it firmly between the back of the fornix and the pubic bone.
Step-by-Step Insertion Technique
Achieving correct placement requires a specific technique to guide the disc into the deep fornix. Begin by washing your hands and finding a comfortable position, such as squatting or sitting on the toilet. Pinch the flexible rim of the disc together lengthwise, forming a narrow oval or figure-eight shape for easier insertion. Gently guide the pinched disc into the vaginal opening, aiming back and down toward the tailbone, not straight up like a tampon.
Push the disc as far back as it will comfortably go until the back edge is tucked past the cervix. Once fully inserted, use a finger to push the front rim up until it hooks securely behind the pubic bone. When correctly seated, you should feel a distinct lock and should not be able to feel the disc at all.
How Disc Placement Differs from Cups and Tampons
The key difference between a menstrual disc and other internal products lies in their final resting position. Tampons and most menstrual cups sit lower in the vaginal canal; tampons absorb fluid, while cups rely on a suction seal against the vaginal walls. In contrast, the menstrual disc sits much higher, resting around the cervix in the wider vaginal fornix.
It does not rely on suction or muscle walls for stability. Instead, its firm rim is held in place by the bony structure of the pubic bone, acting as a passive mechanical anchor. This high placement allows the disc to be worn during penetrative intercourse, a feature unique to this product.
Safe Removal and Preventing Spills
The secure anchoring behind the pubic bone necessitates a specific method for safe removal. Relax your pelvic floor muscles by sitting on the toilet and gently bearing down as if having a bowel movement. This action helps push the disc forward, making it easier to reach and untuck.
Slide a finger inside until you feel the front rim tucked behind the pubic bone. Hook your finger underneath the rim and gently pull downward to unhook it from the bone. Once detached, slowly pull the disc out, keeping it horizontal and level to prevent the collected fluid from spilling.