How Can I Tell if the Disc Is Inserted Correctly?
Proper insertion of the AllMatters Menstrual Disc is key to ensuring comfort, leak-free protection, and a positive experience. Designed to sit in the vaginal fornix and collect menstrual flow, this reusable disc made from medical-grade silicone is user-friendly once you master its placement. This comprehensive guide explains how to insert the disc correctly, confirm its position, and troubleshoot common issues to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Why Correct Insertion Matters
The AllMatters Menstrual Disc is positioned differently than tampons or menstrual cups. It sits higher in the vaginal canal, tucked behind the pubic bone and covering the cervix, to collect up to 50ml of menstrual flow for up to 12 hours. Correct insertion ensures:
- Comfort: A properly placed disc is unnoticeable, allowing you to move, exercise, or sleep without discomfort.
- Leak Protection: When positioned correctly, the disc forms a seal to prevent leaks, even during heavy flows or activities like swimming.
- Ease of Use: Proper placement makes removal cleaner and easier, reducing mess and stress.
Incorrect insertion can lead to discomfort, leaks, or difficulty removing the disc, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right.
Step-by-Step Insertion Guide
Follow these steps to insert the AllMatters Menstrual Disc correctly:
- Prepare:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria.
- Rinse the disc with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap.
Optional: Apply a small amount of water-based lubricant or tap water to the disc’s rim to ease insertion, particularly on lighter flow days.
Fold the Disc:
- Pinch the disc in half to form a figure-8 shape, with the opening facing up. Some users prefer a tighter fold (e.g., pushing one side inward) for easier insertion.
Hold the folded disc firmly to maintain its shape during insertion.
Find a Comfortable Position:
- Common positions include squatting, sitting on the toilet, raising one leg on a surface, or lying down. Experiment to find what works for your body.
Relax your pelvic muscles by taking deep breaths to make insertion smoother.
Insert the Disc:
- Angle the disc downward toward your tailbone (not straight up, as with tampons).
- Gently insert the folded disc into the vaginal canal, pushing it back until it reaches the vaginal fornix (the space around the cervix).
Release the disc and let it unfold naturally.
Tuck the Rim:
- Use a clean finger to push the front rim of the disc up and behind the pubic bone, which feels like a small notch at the front of the vaginal canal.
Ensure the disc is fully unfolded and the cervix is inside the disc’s bowl to collect flow.
Check Placement:
- Stand up, walk a few steps, or gently move to confirm the disc feels secure and comfortable.
- If you feel pressure or discomfort, the disc may need repositioning.
Signs the Disc Is Inserted Correctly
Once inserted, here’s how to confirm the AllMatters Menstrual Disc is in the right place:
- No Discomfort: You shouldn’t feel the disc at all. If it feels like it’s pressing on your bladder, urethra, or cervix, it’s likely not tucked correctly.
- Secure Positioning:
- Use a clean finger to check that the front rim is behind the pubic bone. You should feel a slight notch or ridge where the rim is tucked.
- Confirm the cervix is inside the disc by gently sweeping your finger around the disc’s bowl. The cervix feels like a small, firm bump with a dimple in the center.
- No Leaks During Activity: A correctly placed disc should prevent leaks during normal activities, such as walking, sitting, or light exercise. Test by moving around after insertion.
- Stable Fit: The disc should stay in place without shifting or slipping, even during coughing, sneezing, or laughing.
Troubleshooting Incorrect Insertion
If the disc isn’t inserted correctly, you may experience the following issues. Here’s how to address them:
- Discomfort or Pressure:
- Cause: The disc may be pressing on the cervix or not fully tucked behind the pubic bone.
- Solution: Remove the disc by hooking a finger under the rim and pulling gently. Rinse it, then reinsert, ensuring the rim is securely behind the pubic bone and the cervix is inside the disc.
- Leaks:
- Cause: The disc may be in front of or beside the cervix, allowing flow to bypass it.
- Solution: Remove and reinsert, angling the disc toward the tailbone and checking that the cervix is inside the disc’s bowl. See the article on “Why Is My Disc Leaking?” for more details.
- Difficulty Removing:
- Cause: The disc may be too far back or not fully unfolded, making it hard to hook the rim.
- Solution: Relax, bear down gently (like during a bowel movement), and use a finger to locate the rim. Pull slowly to avoid spills.
Tips for Success
- Learn Your Anatomy: Before your period, practice locating your cervix and pubic bone with a clean finger. This helps you understand where the disc needs to sit.
- Use a Mirror: A small hand mirror can help you visualize the insertion process during practice.
- Practice Patience: If the disc doesn’t feel right on the first try, remove it, rinse, and try again. It often takes a few attempts to find the perfect angle.
- Check After Activity: After inserting, do a few squats or walk around to ensure the disc stays in place.
- Refer to AllMatters’ Resources: The AllMatters website offers detailed guides and videos to support proper insertion.
When to Seek Help
If you consistently feel discomfort, experience persistent leaks, or can’t locate your cervix after several tries, consider:
- Consulting a gynecologist to assess your anatomy (e.g., a tilted uterus or very low/high cervix).
- Reaching out to AllMatters’ customer support for personalized advice.
- Exploring whether a different period product, like a menstrual cup, might be a better fit.
Correct insertion of the AllMatters Menstrual Disc ensures a comfortable, leak-free period experience. With practice, you’ll master the technique and enjoy the disc’s benefits, from eco-friendliness to versatility for period sex or heavy flows. For more guidance, visit allmatters.com.