How to Use Your Menstrual Disc or Cup

Menstrual discs and menstrual cups are both reusable period products, but they sit differently in the body. A menstrual disc sits higher, near the cervix, and tucks behind the pubic bone. A menstrual cup sits lower in the vaginal canal and uses a gentle suction seal to stay in place.

It can take a few tries to feel confident using a disc or cup. This is normal, especially if you are new to reusable period care.

How to Use Your Menstrual Disc

Before You Start

Wash your hands thoroughly.

Make sure your menstrual disc is clean before inserting it.

Find a comfortable position. You may prefer sitting on the toilet, squatting, standing with one leg raised, or inserting it in the shower.

How to Insert a Menstrual Disc

Pinch the rim of the menstrual disc together in the middle so it forms a narrow “8” shape.

Hold the disc with the removal ring facing down. The ring should be the last part to enter the vagina.

Gently insert the disc into the vagina, aiming it back and slightly downward, similar to inserting a tampon.

Push the disc in as far as it comfortably goes. The front rim should tuck behind the pubic bone so the disc sits securely in place and helps cover the cervix.

You may need a few tries to find the right position. This is normal.

Where a Menstrual Disc Sits - 

Menstrual disc positioned near the cervix and tucked behind the pubic bone

How to Remove a Menstrual Disc

Wash your hands before removal.

Relax your pelvic muscles. Sitting on the toilet, squatting, or removing the disc in the shower may make this easier.

Hook your finger or thumb through the removal ring.

Slowly and gently pull the disc out, keeping it as level as possible to help reduce spillage.

Empty the contents into the toilet or shower, then rinse and reinsert if needed.

Removing a Menstrual Disc -

Removing the menstrual disc using the ring

Extra Tip: What Is Auto-Dumping?

Some people may notice their menstrual disc “auto-dumps” when they use the toilet. This can happen because the pelvic floor muscles relax and the disc may temporarily shift, allowing some fluid to empty into the toilet.

Auto-dumping is normal for some disc users and does not necessarily mean the disc is inserted incorrectly.

After using the toilet, you may wish to gently check that the front rim of the disc is still tucked behind the pubic bone. If needed, use a clean finger to tuck it back into place.

Auto-dumping can be helpful for people with a heavier flow, as it may allow some fluid to empty without fully removing the disc. Not everyone experiences auto-dumping, and that is also normal.

If your disc leaks during normal wear, feels uncomfortable, or seems to move out of place often, try reinserting it and checking that it is tucked securely behind the pubic bone.

How to Use Your Menstrual Cup

Before You Start

Wash your hands thoroughly.

Make sure your menstrual cup is clean before inserting it.

Find a comfortable position. You may prefer sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised.

How to Fold a Menstrual Cup

Fold the cup before inserting it. The two most common menstrual cup folds are the C-fold and the punchdown fold.

C-Fold

Fold the cup in half to create a “C” shape.

Punchdown Fold

Push one side of the rim down into the base of the cup to create a narrower insertion point.

Try both folds and use whichever feels most comfortable for your body.

How to Insert a Menstrual Cup

Gently insert the folded menstrual cup into the vagina, similar to inserting a tampon without an applicator.

The cup should sit fully inside the vaginal canal, usually a few centimetres below the cervix.

Once inserted, allow the cup to open. You can gently rotate the cup or run a finger around the base to check that it has opened properly.

A properly positioned menstrual cup should feel comfortable and secure. If it feels uncomfortable, try adjusting it slightly higher or lower.

The cup can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow.

Where a Menstrual Cup Sits -

Menstrual cup positioned in the vaginal canal below the cervix

How to Remove a Menstrual Cup

Wash your hands before removal.

Relax your pelvic muscles. This makes removal easier.

Use the stem as a guide to locate the base of the cup. Do not pull only on the stem while the cup is still sealed.

Gently pinch the base of the cup with your thumb and index finger to break the suction seal.

Slowly pull the cup downward and remove it carefully.

If the seal does not release, slide one finger up the side of the cup to gently break the suction, then remove.

Empty the contents into the toilet, then rinse and reinsert or clean your cup for storage.

Removing a Menstrual Cup -

How to remove a menstrual cup by pinching the base to break the seal

Cleaning Your Disc or Cup

Rinse your menstrual disc or cup with cold water first, then wash with mild soap and water before reinserting.

At the end of your period, clean your disc or cup thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before storing it in your cotton bohokiwi bag or your steriliser/carrier case.

Do not use harsh cleaners, bleach, fragranced soaps, or antibacterial wipes, as these may damage the silicone or cause irritation.

Important Safety Note

Do not wear a menstrual disc or menstrual cup for longer than 12 hours.

Always wash your hands before inserting or removing your disc or cup.

If you experience pain, ongoing discomfort, unusual irritation, or difficulty removing your disc or cup, stop using it and seek medical advice.