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can a menstrual disc cause a UTI?

Date created: 30 July 2025 Read time: 5 minutes

Menstrual health guide

Can a Menstrual Disc Cause a UTI?

Burning when you wee, urgency or pelvic discomfort can feel worrying — especially when you are trying a new period product. This guide explains what we know about menstrual discs and urinary tract infections (UTIs), plus practical steps to take if something does not feel right.

A my mimi menstrual disc is designed to collect period fluid in the vagina. It is not designed to interact with the urinary tract. However, symptoms should never be ignored, and recurring UTIs or ongoing discomfort deserve personalised advice from a qualified health professional.

Quick answer

Can a menstrual disc cause a UTI?

There is no clear evidence that menstrual discs directly cause UTIs. UTIs usually occur when bacteria enter the urethra. Because research specifically on menstrual discs and UTIs is limited, it is best not to assume that any internal period product is the cause of urinary symptoms. Stop using the disc and speak with a clinician if you have burning when urinating, urinary urgency, fever, back pain, blood in your urine or symptoms that keep returning.

my mimi reusable menstrual disc for period care

How a disc sits

Menstrual discs and the urinary tract are different systems

A menstrual disc sits in the vagina, below the cervix, and rests behind the pubic bone. A UTI affects the urinary tract, including the urethra and bladder. The two areas are close together, which can make symptoms feel confusing, but they are not the same body system.

If a disc feels uncomfortable, presses against your bladder, slips, or causes friction, remove it and reassess the fit or insertion technique. Pain, stinging or urinary symptoms are not something you need to push through.

How to use a menstrual disc

What can contribute to UTI symptoms?

Bacteria entering the urethra

UTIs are commonly caused by bacteria entering the urethra. Washing hands before handling any internal period product is a simple, sensible hygiene step.

Irritation or pressure

Incorrect positioning can feel uncomfortable or create pressure. That does not automatically mean you have a UTI, but it is a reason to remove the disc and try again later rather than force it.

Harsh cleansing products

Fragranced soaps, harsh cleansers and douching can irritate vulval or vaginal tissue. Use care products intended for reusable silicone period products and rinse thoroughly.

Wearing beyond instructions

Follow the product’s recommended wear time. my mimi is designed for up to 12 hours of wear depending on flow, but heavier days may require earlier emptying.

Sex and other triggers

Some people are more prone to UTIs after sex. Urinating and washing externally after sex may help reduce risk for some people; discuss recurring symptoms with your clinician.

Another health condition

Thrush, vaginal irritation, sexually transmitted infections and bladder conditions can overlap with UTI-like symptoms. A healthcare professional can help identify the cause.

Practical care

Simple habits for more confident disc use

Good hygiene cannot guarantee that you will never get a UTI, but it can support safer and more comfortable use of any internal period product. Keep your routine simple, gentle and consistent.

Wash your hands Before and after inserting or removing your menstrual disc.

Use gentle care Clean according to the product instructions and avoid harsh or fragranced products.

Check your comfort A disc should not cause persistent pain, rubbing or bladder pressure.

Stay within wear time Empty or remove the disc within the recommended timeframe for your flow.

If you feel discomfort

Check the insertion angle and position

Pinch the disc into a narrow shape, guide it in horizontally towards your tailbone, then tuck the front rim behind your pubic bone. If it feels low, presses uncomfortably or will not stay in place, remove it gently and try again when you are relaxed.

A small amount of water-based lubricant can help during the learning stage. Do not force insertion or removal, especially if you have pain or ongoing sensitivity.

Read the beginner insertion guide

Care between cycles

Clean, dry and store your disc correctly

Rinse your disc during your cycle, use a gentle cleanser suitable for reusable silicone products where available, and sterilise it between cycles according to the product instructions.

Let the disc dry completely before storing it in a breathable pouch. If the disc is damaged, cracked, sticky or has a persistent odour after appropriate cleaning, stop using it and contact the brand or a health professional for advice.

Read the cleaning guide

When to seek medical advice

UTI symptoms

Burning, urgency or cloudy urine

Speak with a doctor or pharmacist if you have pain or burning when urinating, a frequent urge to wee, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or symptoms that do not improve.

Urgent signs

Fever, vomiting or back pain

Seek urgent medical care for fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, pain in your back or side, blood in your urine, or if you feel very unwell.

Recurring symptoms

Get personalised guidance

Recurring UTIs, pelvic pain, postpartum changes, prolapse symptoms or an IUD are good reasons to seek individual advice before continuing with any internal period product.

Helpful next reads

Explore practical resources for safer, more confident menstrual disc use.

How to use a menstrual disc How to clean a menstrual disc Why is my menstrual disc leaking? Find your menstrual disc size Menstrual discs and TSS Read my mimi reviews

Explore my mimi

A reusable menstrual disc designed for everyday life

Soft medical-grade silicone, a suction-free design, a loop tab for removal support and two size options to help you find a more comfortable starting point.

Shop the menstrual disc

Health note: This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. A menstrual disc is not a treatment for UTIs. Stop using the disc and seek advice from a qualified health professional if you have urinary pain, fever, blood in your urine, persistent pelvic discomfort or recurring symptoms.