When you first start using a menstrual disc, it’s completely normal to experience a few leaks. Don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone!
A menstrual disc is different from other types of period protection, so it can take a little time to get used to it. The main causes of leaks are usually:
- Incorrect positioning of the disc
- Wrong size of the disc
In this article, we’ll help you identify the cause of your leaks so you can fix them easily and enjoy leak-free periods.
Are you experiencing heavy leaks with your menstrual disc for no apparent reason?
If it feels like your disc just isn't working, leaking a lot and barely collecting any blood, chances are, it’s not just in your head.
The Cause: Incorrect Positioning of the Menstrual Disc
During your first few uses, getting the disc positioned correctly can be tricky.
But don’t worry, with a little practice, it becomes much easier!
👉 Follow our guide on how to properly insert a menstrual disc.
For your reusable menstrual disc to work properly, it must sit right under your cervix:
- The back edge of the disc should tuck behind your cervix.
- The front edge should rest behind your pubic bone.
In this position, your disc will stay securely in place and properly collect your flow.
(See the illustration below for a better understanding of correct positioning.)
How to Position Your Menstrual Disc Correctly
- Tilt your disc toward your tailbone (toward the back of your vagina) during insertion, so it positions correctly just under your cervix.
If you tilt it upward, the disc might hit your cervix and fail to position properly. - Push the disc all the way in, keeping it tilted toward your tailbone, until it is securely in place.
- Check the disc’s positioning by inserting your index finger under the reservoir (the membrane) and feeling around to make sure your cervix is fully covered by the menstrual disc.
If your menstrual disc is positioned correctly, it should collect your menstrual flow properly and stay securely in place without slipping.
You can also use an applicator with your menstrual disc to make insertion easier, especially for beginners.
If you are still experiencing leaks despite proper insertion, the issue is likely due to another factor.
Special Case: Using a Menstrual Disc with a Retroverted Uterus
If you have a retroverted uterus, your uterus is tilted backward instead of forward, resting against the back wall of the vagina.
A menstrual disc is compatible with retroverted uteruses, but it may make positioning the disc a little more challenging.
You might need to adjust the tilt of your disc depending on the angle of your cervix to ensure it sits correctly.
👉 We share more tips in our article on how to use a menstrual disc with a retroverted uterus.
Is Your Menstrual Disc Leaking When You Squat or Sneeze?
If you notice leaks when sneezing, coughing, exercising, or squatting, it’s often due to a contraction of your pelvic floor muscles pushing the disc down into your vaginal canal.
The Cause: Wrong Disc Size
-
Disc Too Small:
If your menstrual disc is too small, it may not have enough contact with your vaginal walls and pubic bone, making it easier to slip out of place.
-
Disc Too Large:
If your disc is too large, it can get compressed inside your body, like a spring, which can also cause it to be pushed down into your vaginal canal.
If you purchased your reusable menstrual disc from Cup&Co, you're covered by our 90-Day Guarantee. This allows you to try another size for free to find the perfect fit or request a refund if you've already ordered and tested both sizes.
Our disposable menstrual discs are also available in two sizes, S and M, just like our reusable discs.
Leaking During Heavy Flow Days?
If your menstrual disc leaks only during your heavy flow days, there are two possible reasons:
1. Your Menstrual Disc Is Too Full
It’s possible that your disc reaches its maximum capacity if you wear it too long during your heavier days. When this happens, the disc may start to overflow.
Usually, even if it leaks a little, the disc has already collected a good amount of menstrual fluid.
In this case, you can either change your menstrual disc more frequently to avoid overflow, or use the auto-dumping technique, which can be much more effective.
However, if your disc is still empty when leaking occurs, it’s more likely due to the second reason, a sizing issue.
2. Your Menstrual Disc May Be the Wrong Size
Menstrual discs usually perform well and stay leak-free during light flow days, but they can start leaking with heavier flows if the fit isn't perfect.
When your flow is lighter, the disc can stay in place more easily.
But with heavier pressure, if the disc isn’t the right size for your body, it can shift or become dislodged.
If you’ve already tried the Cup&Co menstrual disc in Size S and are experiencing leaks, feel free to request a free exchange for a Size M disc, or vice versa.
Learn how to choose the right menstrual disc size
Is Your Menstrual Disc Leaking When You’re on the Toilet? Or When You Pee?
If you notice leaks only when you’re on the toilet, don’t worry, it’s not actually a real leak.
In fact, this is what's called auto-dumping of the menstrual disc.
This feature allows your disc to empty itself without needing to remove it.
Self-emptying often happens while you're on the toilet because sitting down with your legs slightly raised, and the act of pushing to pee or have a bowel movement, contracts your pelvic muscles.
This contraction can slightly shift your menstrual disc, allowing it to empty naturally.
Once you relax your muscles, the disc should return to its normal position, ready to continue collecting your menstrual flow.
If it doesn’t, you can simply adjust it with your finger by tucking it back behind your pubic bone.
Still Experiencing Leaks No Matter What You Try?
If you've already tested both sizes of menstrual discs and you're still leaking, it’s possible that your anatomy isn't a perfect match for menstrual discs. It’s very rare for menstrual discs not to work, but they aren't suitable for every body type.
👉 Discover the 3 Reasons Why the Disc Might Not Work for You
However, if none of these three situations apply to you, it could simply mean that, despite our two available sizes, you still haven’t found the perfect fit for your body.
Our Cup&Co discs measure:
- 2.56 inches for Size S
- 2.76 inches for Size M
Of course, there are other discs on the market that come in smaller, larger, or in-between sizes, and with different levels of firmness.
Trying a different firmness level might help you find a disc that's better suited to your anatomy.
