How do I insert and remove the disc correctly?
The disc sits higher than a cup, tucked into the vaginal fornix at the top of the vaginal canal. It stays in place by resting behind your pubic bone, covering the cervix to collect flow.
Before your period starts, use a clean finger to locate your cervix (it feels like the tip of your nose) and your pubic bone (a firm "shelf" just inside the vaginal opening).
Insertion
- Wash your hands to prevent introducing bacteria, and 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.
- Pinch the disc in half to form a figure-8 shape, with the opening facing up, and hold it firmly to maintain its shape during insertion.
- Find a comfortable position, such as squatting, sitting on the toilet, raising one leg on a surface, or lying down. Relax your pelvic muscles by taking deep breaths to make insertion smoother.
- 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. Release the disc and let it unfold naturally.
- Use a clean finger to push the front rim of the disc up and behind the pubic bone, the firm ridge 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.
- Stand up and move around to confirm the disc feels secure and comfortable. If you feel pressure or discomfort, it may need to be repositioned.
Removal
- Wash your hands and find a comfortable position (many prefer the shower for a mess-free experience).
- Relax your muscles and hook a finger under the front rim of the disc.
- Gently pull the disc out horizontally to keep it level and prevent spills.
- If the rim feels hard to reach, "bear down" slightly with your pelvic muscles, as if having a bowel movement, to nudge the disc forward.
Troubleshooting
If the disc is not inserted correctly, you may experience discomfort or leakage. Use the following to fix common issues:
- Pressure on the bladder: The disc is likely not tucked high enough. Reinsert it, ensuring the front rim is pushed firmly up and behind the pubic bone.
- Persistent leaking: The disc may be sitting in front of the cervix. Ensure you angle the disc toward the tailbone during insertion so the cervix is caught inside the bowl.
- Difficulty with removal: Stay relaxed! If you are tense, your muscles will hold the disc tighter. Squat low and 'bear down' to bring the rim within reach.
Need More Help?
If you consistently experience discomfort or leaks after multiple attempts, your internal anatomy, such as a tilted uterus or a higher or lower cervix, may require a different approach. Feel free to:
- Consult a gynecologist for a quick anatomy check.
- Contact AllMatters’ customer support for personalized advice or to explore other options.
- Visitallmatters.com for detailed video guides.