Can't remove your menstrual disc from your vagina? Don't panic, because there's no risk of it getting lost or permanently stuck. Your vagina is not, in fact, a bottomless pit, and your disc cannot go past your cervix. Moreover, the risk of toxic shock syndrome is low if you occasionally exceed the 12-hour wear time. You just need to follow these steps to remove your disc:
- Relax.
- Get into a seated position with your legs raised.
- Bear down with your pelvic floor muscles.
- Gently pull on your disc.
And if, despite this, you still can't get it out, here are some additional tips to help you remove your disc without pain.
Why Does a Menstrual Disc Get Stuck?
Your menstrual disc can ride up slightly in your vagina in different situations such as:
- When you sleep, as the vaginal muscles can relax.
- After sex, as the vagina can temporarily expand.
In these cases, your disc may seem harder to reach. You may then have a bit more difficulty removing it.
How to Remove Your Menstrual Disc If It's Stuck?
In such a situation, standing up or walking for a few minutes can help. This should, thanks to gravity, bring your disc down to a more accessible position. Your vagina will also have had time to return to its normal size.
You just need to follow the instructions in your menstrual disc's manual to remove it. But if, despite everything, you still can't dislodge your disc, follow these tips.
1. Relax
People who have found themselves with a stuck menstrual disc unanimously agree that relaxation is essential to get out of this situation. So if you've already been trying for some time to remove your disc without success, you're certainly stressed. Take a break or do something else to let your stress level come down.
2. Get Into the Most Comfortable Position for You
Once you're relaxed, sit down, squat, or stand with one leg elevated. These 3 positions shorten the vaginal canal and make your menstrual disc more accessible. Also remember to breathe deeply, as this also helps relax your pelvic floor muscles.
3. Bear Down as If Urinating or Having a Bowel Movement
This contraction allows you to move your disc slightly, which will then dislodge from behind the pubic bone and descend to become more accessible.
4. Insert Your Finger Into Your Vagina
Continue to bear down with your pelvic floor while inserting a finger into your vagina until you feel the front rim of your disc. Slide your finger under this rim and gently pull it down to bring it out of your vagina.
When your disc has become unstuck from behind your pubic bone during the pelvic floor contraction, there should be a space between its front rim and your vaginal wall. Pass your finger over the rim and slide your finger into the small space to get a better grip on your disc and pull it downward.
In any case, remember to keep your disc parallel to the floor as you remove it so that the collected menstrual flow stays inside.
Some Tips to Make Removing a Stuck Menstrual Disc Easier
- Switch hands: your disc might be more accessible with your other hand.
- Apply lubricant: your disc would slide out more easily.
- Take a warm shower: this would help you relax and loosen your muscles, including your vaginal muscles.
- Use two fingers instead of one to grab and pull on your disc. Position one finger on top of your disc's rim and the other finger underneath your disc.
- Opt for a menstrual disc with a pull tab like OmyDisc's, as this tab makes removing your disc easier.
When Should You Consult a Healthcare Professional for a Stuck Disc?
If, after several spaced-out removal attempts, you still can't get your disc out of your vagina and you exceed 12 hours of wear, consult a healthcare professional. They will be able to quickly and effectively resolve your issue.
Your disc must, in fact, be removed and rinsed every 8 to 12 hours to avoid the risk of toxic shock. Note, however, that if you're not a healthy carrier of Staphylococcus aureus, it wouldn't be dangerous for you to occasionally exceed the 12-hour wear time.
