what to do if your menstrual disc gets stuck

Date Created: 30th of April 2025
Read Time: 5 minutes

"The vaginal canal is only about 7-10cm deep, so nothing can get ‘lost’ up there!"

Still, that doesn’t make it any less stressful when your menstrual disc feels stuck. If you've ever found yourself mid-removal thinking, “How do I get this out?” - you're not alone. The good news? A stuck menstrual disc isn’t dangerous, and it’s usually easy to remove with the right steps.

This guide will walk you through what to do if your menstrual disc won’t budge, why it might happen, and how to prevent it in future cycles.

how to tell if your menstrual disc is actually stuck

Your menstrual disc can’t go anywhere beyond your cervix. So if it feels stuck, it’s more likely just sitting high or angled in a tricky position. People with high cervixes or strong pelvic floor muscles often find the disc moves higher than expected.

The solution? Start by relaxing. Your body needs to soften before anything else will work.

how to remove a stuck menstrual disc step by step

relax your pelvic floor muscles

Your pelvic floor works like a sling - when you're tense, it tightens and traps the disc higher up. Lie on your back with bent knees, take slow belly breaths, and focus on softening your abdomen and jaw. This signals your body to let go.

get into a removal-friendly position

Try these to shift the disc into reach:

• Squatting in the shower
• Sitting backward on the toilet
• Lying down with feet flat and knees bent

bear down to lower your menstrual disc

Using the same muscles you'd use to pass wind, gently bear down. This nudges the disc closer to your vaginal opening so you can reach it more easily.

find the rim or use the loop tab

Slide a finger along the vaginal wall until you feel the disc’s rim. Hook underneath it and pull out slowly at a downward angle. If you’re using a my mimi disc, the loop tab makes this part simple - just grab and guide.

stay patient and take breaks if needed

Don’t panic if it doesn’t come out straight away. Shift position, relax again, or wait 10 minutes. Many discs naturally lower with time and movement.

why menstrual discs can feel stuck

your cervix may be high or angled

A high cervix or tilted uterus can make the disc sit deeper. This isn’t a problem - it just means you may benefit from a disc designed for easier reach.

The my mimi menstrual disc comes in two sizes:

• Small: 32ml capacity (up to 5 regular tampons)
• Large: 61ml capacity (up to 7 regular tampons)

Both sizes feature a removal loop ideal for beginners.

your pelvic floor muscles are too tight

Tension - often unconscious - can cause your body to “hold on” to the disc. Breathwork and awareness help here. Long term, pelvic floor physiotherapy may also support better period comfort.

the disc may be too full

Heavy flow? A full disc might wedge itself into a higher position. Give it 10–15 minutes and it will usually shift lower with gravity or movement.

how to prevent a stuck menstrual disc next cycle

• Use a disc with a loop tab like the my mimi disc
• Empty your disc more frequently on heavy days
• Use the right disc size for your body
• Learn your cervix position – see our cervix position guide
• Practise deep breathing before removal

when to seek help if your menstrual disc won’t come out

If you’ve tried relaxing, repositioning, and using the loop tab but still can’t reach your disc after 6-8 hours, it’s time to consult a medical professional. They’re trained to help and will make sure everything is safe and stress-free.

For ongoing challenges, visit our page on how to remove a menstrual disc for additional tips and diagrams.

final thoughts on stuck menstrual discs and removal confidence

Your body is capable. You’re capable. Learning how to use a menstrual disc - especially how to remove it - is a skill. Every cycle builds confidence.

The my mimi disc was made for people just like you. Whether you need more capacity or a little help with removal, our two sizes and clever loop tab make it easier than ever to feel in control of your period care.

Want to find the best disc for your body and lifestyle? Check out our guide to choosing a menstrual disc.