Why Is My Menstrual Disc Leaking?

Date Created: 14th of April 2026
Read Time: 5 minutes

If your menstrual disc is leaking, the most common reason is not that discs do not work. It is usually a fit, placement, or timing issue. In many cases, a leaking menstrual disc can be fixed by adjusting how it sits, checking whether the size suits your body, or emptying it more often on heavier flow days.

Leaking can feel frustrating, especially if you were hoping for a more comfortable and low-maintenance period option. The good news is that most disc leaks have a clear cause. Once you understand what is going on, it becomes much easier to troubleshoot and get a better result.

Quick answer: why is my menstrual disc leaking?

A menstrual disc usually leaks because it is not sitting in the right position, it has not been tucked securely behind the pubic bone, the size is not the best fit, or it is overflowing on a heavier day. Less often, what seems like leaking is actually leftover fluid in the vaginal canal after insertion or removal.

How a menstrual disc should sit

A menstrual disc works differently from a tampon or pad. It sits higher in the body, at the base of the cervix, and collects fluid rather than absorbing it. The front rim should rest securely behind the pubic bone. When it is positioned correctly, it should feel comfortable, stay out of the way, and help reduce leaks.

If you are new to discs, it can help to read a step-by-step guide on how to use a menstrual disc before assuming something is wrong with the product itself.

The most common reasons a menstrual disc leaks

1. The disc is not fully tucked behind the pubic bone

This is one of the most common causes of leaking. If the front rim of the disc is not tucked up and back properly, it may sit too low in the vaginal canal. That can lead to slipping, discomfort, or fluid escaping around the edge.

Try this:

• Insert the disc horizontally rather than upwards
• Aim it back towards your tailbone
• Once inserted, use a finger to check that the front rim is tucked behind the pubic bone

2. The size may not be the best fit for your body

If your menstrual disc keeps leaking even when you are inserting it carefully, size could be the issue. A disc that is too small or too large for your anatomy may be more likely to shift or sit incorrectly.

Your age, anatomy, flow, and whether you have given birth vaginally can all affect fit. If you are unsure, review the my mimi size guide to compare options more clearly.

The my mimi menstrual disc comes in two sizes:

• Small - 32ml capacity
• Large - 61ml capacity

That size flexibility can make a real difference if leaking is linked to fit.

3. Your cervix may be sitting differently during your cycle

Your cervix can shift position throughout your period. On some days it may sit higher, and on others lower. That means a disc can feel different from one day to the next, even within the same cycle.

If the disc is not sitting underneath or around the cervix properly, it may not collect fluid the way it should. This can sometimes look like a leak when the real issue is placement.

4. The disc may be full

A menstrual disc has a set capacity. On heavier flow days, it may simply be reaching capacity sooner than expected. If you are wearing it for several hours and then notice leaking, overflow may be the cause.

Try this:

• Empty it more often on your heaviest days
• Track how long it lasts on light, medium, and heavy flow days
• Consider whether a higher-capacity size may suit you better

5. It may be auto-emptying, not leaking

Some menstrual discs can self-empty when you use the toilet. This can happen when your pelvic muscles bear down and briefly shift the disc enough to release some fluid. For many users, this is a normal feature rather than a problem.

If the disc returns to position afterwards and does not continue leaking, it may simply be self-emptying rather than failing.

6. There may be leftover fluid after insertion or removal

Sometimes people think the disc is leaking when the fluid they notice is actually residual blood left in the vaginal canal from earlier. This can happen after insertion, after emptying, or after the disc has been repositioned.

If this is the cause, the spotting usually settles quickly rather than continuing steadily.

7. Movement can reveal a placement problem

If your menstrual disc only seems to leak when walking, bending, exercising, or sitting a certain way, that can point to a fit or placement issue. The disc may not be secure enough, or the size may not be ideal for your body.

This is why some people notice leaks during busy days, gym sessions, or long periods of movement, but not while resting.

How to fix a leaking menstrual disc

If your menstrual disc is leaking, work through the basics before giving up. Most issues improve with a few practical adjustments.

1. Remove and reinsert the disc slowly
2. Make sure it is angled back, not straight up
3. Check that the rim is tucked securely behind the pubic bone
4. Confirm that your cervix is sitting above or within the disc, not to the side of it
5. Empty it more often if you are on a heavy day
6. Review whether the size is right for you

If you want more guidance, you can also read the detailed menstrual disc instructions and the overview on how menstrual discs work.

When leaking is more likely to happen

There are certain situations where leaking is more common, especially while you are still learning:

• the first one or two cycles of use
• very heavy flow days
• when rushing insertion
• when using the wrong size
• after assuming it is in place without checking the tuck

This learning curve is normal. Many users need a little practice before insertion becomes quick and reliable.

What if your menstrual disc leaks every time?

If your menstrual disc leaks every time, it is worth looking closely at fit. Repeated leaking usually suggests that the disc is either not sitting in the right position or is not the best match for your body.

Start by asking:

• Am I tucking the front rim fully behind the pubic bone?
• Am I aiming it back rather than up?
• Could I need a different size?
• Is it actually full rather than leaking?

If you are still unsure what a menstrual disc is meant to feel like when worn correctly, this guide on what is a menstrual disc can help clarify the basics.

Why some people switch to my mimi after leak issues

When leaks are linked to size, ease of removal, or inconsistent positioning, product design can make a difference. The my mimi menstrual disc is designed to support comfort, fit, and easier use, especially for those still getting used to discs.

Key features include:

• two sizes for a better fit range - Small 32ml and Large 61ml
• a beginner friendly loop tab for easier removal
• self-emptying capability when positioned correctly
• TGA-compliant and FDA-registered materials
• long-term value at around 83c per month over 5 years

my mimi is an Australian Owned Business, a trusted and established award-winning brand, and is used by thousands of customers across Australia and beyond. The brand also offers a complete range of complementary products and accessories to make menstrual disc use and care easier.

Who this article is especially helpful for

This guide is especially useful if:

• you are using a menstrual disc for the first time
• your disc leaks when you move
• your disc leaks on heavy flow days
• you are unsure whether the issue is fit, size, or insertion
• you want a more reliable and comfortable period care option

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal for a menstrual disc to leak at first?

Yes. A small learning curve is common. Early leaks are often caused by placement or fit rather than the disc itself not working.

Why does my menstrual disc leak when I sit down or move?

This can happen if the disc is sitting too low or is not tucked securely behind the pubic bone. Movement may reveal a positioning issue that is less obvious while standing still.

Why is my menstrual disc leaking on heavy days?

On heavier flow days, the disc may be reaching capacity sooner. Try emptying it more often and consider whether a larger size may suit you better.

Can the wrong size cause menstrual disc leaks?

Yes. A poor fit can make the disc more likely to shift, sit incorrectly, or feel less secure. That can increase the chance of leaking.

Where can I learn the correct way to insert a menstrual disc?

You can follow the my mimi insertion guide for step-by-step support and practical tips.

Conclusion

If your menstrual disc is leaking, it does not usually mean menstrual discs are not for you. Most leaks come down to placement, fit, timing, or learning how your body responds across your cycle. Once you identify the cause, the fix is often straightforward.

Take your time, make one adjustment at a time, and give yourself a cycle or two to learn. With the right fit and correct positioning, a menstrual disc can become one of the most comfortable and reliable period care options available.

Health Notice: We share this information to support your wellbeing journey, but it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised care, please consult a qualified health professional.