Menstrual disc: what it is, how to use it and how to clean it (complete guide)

The menstrual disc is a reusable flexible medical silicone device that is used to collect menstruation, replacing the internal or external absorbent during the menstrual period.

This device has the shape of a disc, similar to the diaphragm, and can remain in the vaginal canal for up to 12 hours, and has the advantage of being able to have intimate contact during its use, in addition to reducing menstrual cramps.

The menstrual disc can be purchased at pharmacies and comes in three different sizes and must be chosen according to the height of the cervix, so that it fits well, preventing leaks.

How to use

The menstrual disc must be used by inserting it through the vaginal canal to completely cover the cervix and can be used by all women who menstruate.

However, if the girl or woman has not yet had sexual intercourse, it is important to consult a gynecologist to advise on the best type of menstrual disc or other collection device or pads. See the main menstrual pads and how to use them.

Make an appointment with a gynecologist in the nearest region:

Benefits of the menstrual disc

The main benefits of the menstrual disc are:

1. It can be used for up to 12 hours on any occasion, such as at the beach, swimming pool, when practicing physical exercise or sports, for example;
2. It has a capacity of 40 to 60 mL, suitable for menstrual flows of different intensities, low, medium, abundant or very intense;
3. It does not produce a vacuum and can be used by any woman, including those who use an IUD;
4. It is reusable, making it a more economical and ecological option. However, there are disposable menstrual discs;
5. Does not leave a smell, as the blood does not come into contact with the air and does not oxidize;
6. Reduces the risk of vaginal infections, such as candidiasis, as it does not have contact with the vulva, which is more ventilated compared to external absorbents;
7. Can reduce menstrual cramps;
8. It allows intimate contact with penetration, without contact with blood, as it is fitted close to the cervix, leaving the vaginal canal free.

Although it has many benefits, and has a similar shape to the diaphragm, the menstrual disc does not prevent pregnancy, and therefore, to avoid an unwanted pregnancy, it is important to use a contraceptive method recommended by the gynecologist. Discover the main contraceptive methods.

Furthermore, the menstrual disc does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and therefore a condom must be used in all sexual relations. Check out the main STIs.

Can you sleep with a menstrual disc?

The menstrual disc can be used to sleep as long as it is not used for more than 12 hours.

How to insert the menstrual disc

To place the menstrual disc, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands well with water and neutral soap;
2. Sit with legs opensquat or stand with one leg supported on a bench or chair;
3. Push the disc base slightly inward;
4. Squeeze the sides of the menstrual discso that it has the shape of 8;
5. Insert the disc into the vaginal canalpushing back and down, until it touches the wall of the cervix;
6. Attach the menstrual disc to the pubic bonepushing the tip of the disc with your index finger;
7. Run your finger around the edges of the menstrual discto ensure it is securely fitted.

If the menstrual disc is not properly fitted, which can be felt by running your finger around the disc, you can move it around to try to fit it in or remove it and start inserting it again.

How many years does the menstrual disc last?

The reusable menstrual disc can last up to 3 years. However, there are also disposable menstrual discs, which in this case should not be reused and should be discarded after use.

How to remove the menstrual disc

To remove the menstrual disc, you must wash your hands well with water and neutral soap and then insert your index finger into the vaginal canal, until it touches the front edge of the disc.

Make a movement with your index finger, as if it were a hook, to pull the disc and remove it. It is important to keep the menstrual disc horizontal when removing it to prevent blood from spilling.

Then, you must empty the blood into the toilet, and wash the reusable menstrual disc with plenty of water and soap suitable for the intimate area, and dry with toilet paper.

How to clean the menstrual disc

The reusable menstrual disc must always be sterilized before using it for the first time and always before menstruation and after menstruation.

This sterilization can be done using the microwave or a pan reserved only for sterilizing the menstrual disc.

1. In the microwave

To sterilize the reusable menstrual disc in the microwave, you must:

1. Place the menstrual disc in a microwave-safe container, a mug reserved for the menstrual disc or in the sterilizing capsule that comes with the disc;
2. Add water until it covers the menstrual disc and place in the microwave;
3. Turn on the microwave and wait until the water boils. After the water boils, leave for another 3 to 5 minutes, according to the manufacturer’s specifications;
4. Remove from the microwave, discard the water and wash the container normally with soap and water.

Then, dry the container and menstrual disc with toilet paper and store it in the bag provided in the product packaging.

2. On the panel

To sterilize the reusable menstrual disc in the pan, you must:

1. Place the menstrual disc in an enamelled agate, glass or stainless steel pan, which should only be used to sterilize the menstrual disc;
2. Add water until it covers the menstrual disc completely;
3. Place the pan on the stove, turn on the heat and wait until the water starts to boil;
4. Let the menstrual disc boil for another 3 to 5 minutes, after the water has started to boil;
5. Remove the menstrual disc, discard the water and wash the pan with soap and water.

Some brands of menstrual discs have a special pan for sterilizing the disc.

To use the pan to sterilize the reusable menstrual disc, preference should be given to enamelled agate, glass or stainless steel pans, as aluminum or Teflon pans can release metals that could damage the disc’s silicone.

What is the difference between collector and disk?

The menstrual collector, like the menstrual disc, is a silicone device indicated for collecting menstrual blood, replacing the internal or external absorbent.

However, there are differences between the menstrual cup and the menstrual disc, such as:

Furthermore, the way to put on and take off the menstrual cup and menstrual disc is different, due to the position in which they are located. See how to put on the menstrual cup.

Who shouldn’t use

The menstrual disc should not be used after childbirth, as this is a phase in which the cervix is ​​more sensitive, or women with suspected vaginal infections.

Furthermore, although it is not contraindicated, some women with vaginismus or a tilted or retroverted uterus may experience discomfort when using the menstrual disc, and should seek guidance from a gynecologist.

Risks of using a menstrual disc

The menstrual disc is considered safe, however, like tampons or menstrual cups, it can cause toxic shock, which is a bacterial infection associated with prolonged use of these menstrual devices. Know how to identify the symptoms of toxic shock.

Therefore, it is important to clean the menstrual disc every time it is removed and sterilize the product before using it for the first time and always before and after menstruation.