If you’ve been curious about menstrual discs but feel a little unsure about where to start, you're not alone. Menstrual discs can seem slightly mysterious at first. They sit differently from tampons and menstrual cups, they look a little different, and yes, the uncertainty of how you remove them can make people feel trepidatious.
The good news is that once you understand how they work, menstrual discs are surprisingly simple to use (and remove!) In fact, many people find discs easier and more comfortable than tampons. They also have more capacity and don't rely on suction to stay in place like menstrual cups do.
So if you want to know exactly how to use a menstrual disc, including how to insert a menstrual disc, how to remove a menstrual disc, how to know if it is in the right place, how to clean it, and what to do if you experience leaks - you’re in the right place!
We will also explain why the Hello Disc has become one of the world's most loved menstrual discs. With its patented double loop tabs, thoughtful design and high capacity, it has helped take a lot of the guesswork out of using a menstrual disc for beginners.
Meet the Hello Disc
The Hello Disc is a reusable menstrual disc designed to make periods easier, comfier and a lot less annoying. It is loved by fans all over the world and is known as a top-rated menstrual disc on Google Reviews thanks to its thoughtful design, high capacity and patented double loop tabs that make removal easier.
It can be worn for up to 12 hours, holds up to 10 regular tampons, and is designed for real life: sleeping, swimming, exercising, travelling and everything in between.
What Is a Menstrual Disc?
A menstrual disc is a reusable period product that is worn internally to collect menstrual fluid. Unlike a tampon, which absorbs fluid, a disc catches it. Unlike a menstrual cup, which usually sits lower in the vaginal canal and uses suction to stay in place, a menstrual disc sits higher up, tucked behind the pubic bone and positioned beneath the cervix.
That might sound technical, but the basic idea is simple: the disc forms a little collection basin inside the body. When it is inserted correctly, you usually should not feel it.
Menstrual discs are popular because they can be worn for up to 12 hours, hold a high amount of fluid, and are suitable for everyday wear, overnight protection, exercise, swimming and travel. Some people also prefer them because they can feel less noticeable than other internal period products.
How Does a Menstrual Disc Work?
A menstrual disc works by sitting in the vaginal fornix, which is the space around the cervix. Once inserted, the front rim of the disc tucks behind the pubic bone. This helps keep the disc in place while it collects fluid.
Because the disc sits higher than a tampon or most menstrual cups, it can feel different the first time you use it. Different does not mean difficult. It just means there is a small learning curve, like there is with almost every period product.
The Hello Disc was designed to make this learning curve easier. Made from flexible, medical-grade silicone, it folds smoothly for insertion, while the patented double loop tabs make removal more straightforward. Instead of having to reach up to find the base of a disc, the tabs give you something easier to reach. They also allow for a controlled, mess-free removal.
How Do You Use A Menstrual Disc?
A menstrual disc is folded in half lengthways and inserted like a tampon. It holds more than a tampon, and can be left in for up to 12 hours. Let's break down each step of how to insert and remove a menstrual disc.
How To Insert a Menstrual Disc
Learning how to insert a menstrual disc is usually the part people worry about most. Once you have tried it a few times, it becomes much more intuitive.
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Before inserting your menstrual disc, wash your hands with soap and water.
You should also make sure your disc is clean before use. If you are using your disc for the first time, sterilise it according to the product instructions.
Step 2: Find a Comfortable Position
There is no single “correct” position for inserting a menstrual disc. The best position is the one that helps your body relax.
You can try sitting on the toilet, standing with one foot raised, squatting in the shower, or lying down with your knees bent. For many beginners, the shower is a good place to practise because it feels less pressured and the water acts as a natural lubricant.
Step 3: Pinch the Disc
Fold the disc in half lengthways. Hold the top section of menstrual disc between your thumb and forefinger and pinch the sides together so it forms a narrow shape, The Hello Disc is designed to be flexible enough to fold easily, while still having enough structure to open once inside the body.
Step 4: Insert the Disc Back and Down
Gently guide the folded disc into the vaginal canal, aiming back and slightly downward toward your tailbone rather than straight up.
This angle matters. A common beginner mistake is pushing the disc too vertically, which can make it feel uncomfortable or stop it from sitting in the right position.
Keep sliding the disc in until most of it is inside and you feel it move into place.
Step 5: Tuck the Front Rim Up
Once the disc is inside, use one finger to push the front rim upward and tuck it behind the pubic bone.
This is the step that helps keep the disc secure. You may feel a slight ridge of bone at the front. The disc should sit behind that.
With the Hello Disc, make sure the tab is positioned in a way that feels comfortable for you. Some people prefer the tabs hanging down slightly for easy access, while others tuck them up. It may take a little experimenting to find what suits your body best.
How Do I Know If My Menstrual Disc Is Inserted Correctly?
A menstrual disc is likely inserted correctly if you cannot feel it, it feels secure, and you are not leaking.
You should not feel pressure, poking or discomfort. If it feels uncomfortable, it may not be tucked properly behind the pubic bone, or it may be sitting at the wrong angle.
A good way to check is to gently run a clean finger around the rim and make sure the front edge is tucked up. You do not need to overthink it. If it feels comfortable and is not leaking, you are probably good to go.
How Long Can You Wear a Menstrual Disc?
Most reusable menstrual discs, including the Hello Disc, can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow.
On heavier days, you may need to empty it more often. On lighter days, you may be able to wear it for the full 12 hours.
The Hello Disc has a high-capacity design, which makes it especially handy for heavy flow days, overnight wear, long workdays, travel, school, sport and busy days when you do not want to think about your period every couple of hours.
As always, follow the care and wear instructions that come with your disc
Why beginners love the Hello Disc
The Hello Disc was designed with one very important question in mind: how do we make menstrual discs easier to use?
The answer is in the details. Its patented double loop tabs make removal easier, especially for first-time disc users. Its high-capacity design means fewer changes throughout the day. And its flexible shape helps it fold smoothly for insertion.
How To Remove a Menstrual Disc
Removal is the part that makes many first-time users nervous, but it does not need to be dramatic. The key is to relax, take your time and remember that the disc cannot get lost inside you.
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Just like with insertion, wash your hands before removal.
Step 2: Relax Your Pelvic Floor
Sit on the toilet or squat in the shower. Take a breath and relax your pelvic floor muscles. If your body is tense, removal can feel harder than it needs to be.
Step 3: Find the Tab or Rim
With a traditional disc, you usually need to hook your finger under the rim. With the Hello Disc, the patented double loop tabs make this step easier because they give you a more obvious point to reach for.
This is one of the reasons the Hello Disc is loved by users around the world. The tabs help make removal feel less intimidating, especially for beginners or anyone who has struggled with removing other menstrual discs.
Step 4: Gently Pull the Disc Out
Once you have the rim, gently pull the disc forward and out, keeping it as level as possible to reduce spills.
If you are using a Hello Disc, use the loops to help you pull the disc out. As it starts to exit your body, pull the tabs upwards so the disc tilts and empties backwards away from your hand. The Hello Disc is the only disc that allows for a truly mess-free removal.
Go slowly when you are getting used to the removal process. There is no prize for speed here.
Step 5: Empty and Rinse
Empty the collected fluid into the toilet, sink or shower drain. Rinse the disc with cold water first, then wash it with a mild, body-safe cleanser or the cleaning method recommended by the brand.
If you are in a public bathroom, you can empty the disc into the toilet and wipe it with toilet paper or a clean period-product wipe before reinserting. Then wash it properly when you get home.
Can a Menstrual Disc Leak?
Yes, a menstrual disc can leak if it is not inserted correctly, if it is full, or if it has not been tucked behind the pubic bone.
The most common reason for leaking is placement. If the disc is sitting in the vaginal canal rather than tucked behind the pubic bone, it may not collect fluid properly.
Another reason is capacity. Although discs can often hold more than tampons or cups, everyone’s flow is different. If you have a very heavy flow, you may need to empty your disc more often.
The Hello Disc’s high-capacity design is one of the reasons it has become such a popular option for people with heavier periods or anyone wanting longer wear between changes.
What Is Auto-Dumping?
Auto-dumping is when a menstrual disc empties some fluid while you are on the toilet, usually when you pee or use your pelvic muscles.
This can happen because the muscles around the disc shift slightly, allowing the rim to move just enough for some fluid to release. For some people, this is actually a helpful feature because it lets them empty part of the disc without fully removing it.
It should not usually happen when you are walking around, sleeping or going about your day, because your pelvic muscles and body position are different. If you are leaking outside the toilet, it may mean the disc is not tucked properly behind the pubic bone.
How To Clean a Menstrual Disc
Cleaning your menstrual disc properly helps keep it fresh and ready for reuse.
During your period, rinse and wash your disc between uses. At the end of your cycle, sterilise it according to the instructions. Many people do this by boiling it in water for the recommended amount of time or using a menstrual cup and disc steriliser.
Always store your disc in a breathable pouch or suitable case once it is completely dry. Avoid storing it in an airtight container unless the brand specifically says it is designed for that purpose.
Can You Sleep With a Menstrual Disc In?
Yes, many people use a menstrual disc overnight. Because discs can usually be worn for up to 12 hours and have a high capacity, they can be a great option for sleep.
If you are new to discs, you might want to try it during the day first so you can get comfortable with insertion, placement and removal. Once you feel confident, overnight wear can be one of the biggest perks.
For extra peace of mind on heavy nights, some people like to pair a disc with period underwear or a reusable pad.
Can You Swim or Exercise With a Menstrual Disc?
Yes, a menstrual disc can be worn while swimming, running, walking, doing yoga, training or going about your usual activities.
Because it is worn internally and collects fluid rather than absorbing it, a disc is a practical option for swimming and exercise. When inserted correctly, it should stay in place and feel comfortable.
The Hello Disc has fans all over the world partly because it is designed for real life. Workdays, workouts, long-haul flights, beach days, school days, sleep-ins, chaotic mornings. The goal is period care that works with your life, not the other way around.
Is a Menstrual Disc Good for Beginners?
A menstrual disc can be a good choice for beginners, especially if you want high capacity, long wear time and a reusable alternative to tampons or pads.
That said, it can take a few tries to get used to. Give yourself time. Try inserting it when you are not rushed. Read the instructions. Practise in the shower. Expect a bit of trial and error.
The Hello Disc is a strong beginner option because of its thoughtful design and patented double loop tabs. Removal is often the part people feel most unsure about, and the tabs help make that step easier.
It is also widely loved by users and known as a top-rated menstrual disc on Google Reviews, with fans around the world praising its comfort, capacity and ease of use.
Menstrual Disc vs Menstrual Cup: What Is the Difference?
A menstrual disc and menstrual cup both collect period fluid, but they sit differently in the body.
A menstrual cup usually sits lower in the vaginal canal and uses suction to stay in place. A menstrual disc sits higher, tucked behind the pubic bone, and does not rely on suction.
Some people prefer cups. Some people prefer discs. Some people use both, depending on the day. If you have found cups uncomfortable, tricky to remove, or not quite right for your body, a disc may be worth trying.
Common Menstrual Disc Mistakes
The most common menstrual disc mistake is inserting it at the wrong angle. Aim back and down toward the tailbone, not straight up.
Another common mistake is forgetting to tuck the front rim behind the pubic bone. If the disc is not tucked, it may leak or feel like it is slipping.
A third mistake is panicking during removal. Your disc cannot travel beyond the vaginal canal. If you cannot reach it immediately, relax, change position and try again.
Like anything new, using a menstrual disc gets easier with practice.
Why Choose the Hello Disc?
The Hello Disc was created to make reusable period care easier, more comfortable and less intimidating.
Its patented double loop tabs are designed to make removal simpler, especially compared with traditional menstrual discs that require you to hook a finger under the rim. The tabs can be worn in different ways depending on what feels most comfortable for your body.
It also has a high-capacity design, making it a great option for heavy flow, overnight use and long days. It is made from medical-grade silicone and designed to be reused cycle after cycle.
The result is a menstrual disc that is practical, thoughtful and genuinely easy to use once you get the hang of it. That is why the Hello Disc has built a loyal following around the world and earned its reputation as a top-rated menstrual disc on Google Reviews.
Menstrual Disc FAQs
How do you use a menstrual disc for the first time?
To use a menstrual disc for the first time, wash your hands, pinch the disc into a narrow shape, insert it back and down toward your tailbone, then tuck the front rim behind your pubic bone. Start when you are relaxed and not in a rush.
How do you know if a menstrual disc is in correctly?
A menstrual disc is usually in correctly if you cannot feel it, it feels secure, and you are not leaking. The front rim should be tucked behind the pubic bone.
Is it hard to remove a menstrual disc?
It can feel unfamiliar at first, but it should not be hard once you understand the technique. The Hello Disc’s patented double loop tabs are designed to make removal easier and less intimidating.
Can you wear a menstrual disc for 12 hours?
Many menstrual discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow and the product instructions. On heavy days, you may need to empty it more often.
Can a menstrual disc get stuck?
A menstrual disc cannot get lost inside your body. If it feels hard to reach, relax, squat, sit on the toilet or gently bear down to help move it lower.
Why is my menstrual disc leaking?
Your menstrual disc may leak if it is not tucked behind the pubic bone, if it is inserted at the wrong angle, or if it is full. Repositioning the disc usually solves the issue.
Final thoughts
Learning how to use a menstrual disc can take a little practice, but it is worth giving yourself the time to get comfortable. Once you understand how to insert it, tuck it, remove it and clean it, a disc can become one of the easiest and most reliable period products in your bathroom cabinet.
The Hello Disc was designed to make that process easier from the start, with patented double loop tabs for easier removal, a thoughtful shape and a high-capacity design that supports real-life periods.
Whether you are looking for a reusable period product, a high-capacity menstrual disc for heavy flow, a menstrual disc for beginners, or a comfortable option for overnight wear, the Hello Disc is a clever little period upgrade with a very loyal fan club.
