If you have experience using tampons, you've probably always figured that you insert period products angled up into your body. That's not actually the case with a menstrual disc! Unlike tampons, a disc should be inserted down and back (towards your tailbone), not up.

Once you have found your preferred position (like sitting on the toilet or squatting), make sure you are pushing the edge that goes in first down toward the floor so that it sits at an angle and fully covers the cervix. Then make sure the front edge (the part that goes in last) is tucked up behind your pubic bone and pushed past it as far as it can go. Down and back is key!

Fun fact: Your vagina is shaped like a cul-de-sac. That means the disc cannot get lost in your body.

The most important step for removing any period product is relaxation. Tensing up can make removal much more difficult. So take a few deep breaths or engage in a calm activity before getting started.

When you're ready to remove your disc, remember to bear down gently (almost as if you are pooping). This action helps to "pop" the front edge out from behind your pubic bone, making it easier to hook your finger under the rim and pull it out. Leaning forward when you’re on the toilet can also help shift the disc into a more accessible position.

While you're bearing down, use a clean finger to hook the disc from under the black rim in a "come here" motion and pull. Be sure to keep your Flex Disc horizontal and pull it out slowly to minimize the risk of spilling.

Lastly, if you are enjoying Mess-Free Period Sex™ with your Flex Disc, wait at least 15 minutes before trying to remove your disc. When aroused, the vaginal canal can actually become longer, so allowing your body some time to relax and return to its normal size will make removal much simpler.

If you are leaking frequently after inserting the disc, you likely have not inserted the disc far back enough or tucked it behind your pubic bone. Remove the disc and try again with a new disc, making sure to angle it down and back towards your tailbone. We've heard from some customers that their go-to move is to insert the disc while bearing down slightly. Doing so helps move the cervix into a lower position where they can more easily get the disc tucked up in place. While you perfect your technique, wear the disc with a pad or liner so you can feel confident and covered.

We recommend getting the hang of disc removal in the shower. If you don’t have access to one when your 12-hour wear time is up, though, there are a few other things you can do.

First, the basics: Take a deep breath and relax. Next, gently bear down, like you’re pooping (you won’t, though!) to help pop the disc out from behind the pubic bone. Hook the disc with your finger—many customers like the “come here” motion to begin removing the disc.

Finally, and most importantly to reduce mess: Make sure you remove the disc sloooowly, keeping it parallel to the floor. Keep some Flex Eco Disposal Pouches nearby, or use toilet paper or the wrapper of your next Flex Disc to contain your used disc when you throw it away.