The Complete Guide to Menstrual Discs (for Beginners)
Date Created: 9 July 2025
If you’re new to the idea of menstrual discs, you’re not alone. These reusable period care products are steadily gaining popularity in Australia - and for good reason. With the right fit and design, they can be life-changing for anyone looking to feel more confident, comfortable and in control during their cycle.
What Is a Menstrual Disc?
A menstrual disc is a flexible, bowl-shaped period product that sits in the vaginal fornix (just below the cervix) and collects blood rather than absorbing it. Unlike tampons or pads, discs are internal but do not rely on suction. This makes them suitable for people with IUDs or those who want a lower-risk alternative to menstrual cups.
Why More Australians Are Switching
Reusable menstrual discs offer several benefits: they can be worn for up to 12 hours, they hold more liquid than pads or tampons, and they often allow for mess-free period sex. The my mimi menstrual disc adds to this experience by offering a soft, medical-grade silicone design that includes a loop tab for easy removal - a standout for beginners or anyone who’s felt anxious about making the switch.
Finding the Right Size
The my mimi disc comes in two sizes:
- Small (32ml capacity): Recommended for teens, those under 30, or people who have not given birth vaginally.
- Large (61ml capacity): Best suited for those over 30 or who have given birth vaginally. Also ideal for heavier flows or longer days without access to a bathroom.
How to Use a Menstrual Disc
- Wash your hands and rinse the disc.
- Pinch the disc in half to create a narrow, figure-8 shape.
- Insert it into the vagina, angling it back and slightly down until the rim tucks behind the pubic bone.
- Once in place, it should feel like nothing at all.
- To remove, hook a finger through the loop tab, angle slightly down and pull it out slowly.
Is There a Learning Curve?
Yes, and that’s normal. Most people master insertion and removal within a couple of cycles. The my mimi disc's soft rim and loop tab were designed to make this transition smoother and less intimidating.
Cleaning and Reuse
Rinse with cold water after removal, then wash with a pH-balanced foaming cleanser or mild soap. At the end of each cycle, boil the disc in water for 5–8 minutes or use a UV steriliser like the my mimi GO sanitiser. Each disc lasts up to 5 years - making it not only sustainable but incredibly cost-effective at just 83c per month.
Can You Have Sex While Wearing It?
Yes - because the disc sits higher in the vaginal canal, it leaves the canal open and doesn’t obstruct penetration. Just be sure it’s securely tucked into place, and empty it beforehand if you’re nearing capacity.
The Takeaway
Switching to a menstrual disc might seem daunting at first, but with the right support and thoughtful design, it becomes second nature. Thousands of Australians are making the change - and with good reason. The my mimi menstrual disc offers 12-hour wear, less waste, and more confidence for your period - every cycle, every time.