Inserting a Ziggy menstrual disc, like other menstrual discs, involves a simple technique to ensure it sits comfortably and securely, providing leak-free protection. The key is to angle it correctly and tuck it behind your pubic bone.
Preparing for Insertion
Before you begin, ensure you're in a comfortable and private setting.
- Wash Your Hands: Always start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water to maintain hygiene.
- Clean Your Disc: If it's your first time or if the disc has been stored, give it a quick rinse with warm water.
- Find a Comfortable Position: Many find it easiest to insert while sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised (e.g., on the edge of the tub). Experiment to find what works best for you.
Step-by-Step Guide to Inserting Your Ziggy Disc
The Ziggy disc is designed to be very flexible. The most common folding method is to pinch the sides together to form a figure-8 shape.
- Fold the Disc: Hold the disc with your dominant hand. Pinch the opposite sides of the rim together, making it long and narrow, resembling a figure-8 or a taco shape.
- Lubricate (Optional): If you find insertion difficult, a little water-based lubricant on the rim can help.
- Insert the Disc: With the pinched disc, gently insert it into your vaginal canal. This is where the crucial angling comes in:
- Push the disc straight back, angled towards your tailbone. This ensures it slides past the pubic bone and into the vaginal fornix, which is the wider space at the back of the canal. Pushing it straight back and downward (towards your tailbone) helps it go deeper and fully open.
- Tuck and Seal: Once the disc is fully inserted (you shouldn't feel the rim protruding), use your finger to push the front rim up and behind your pubic bone. This "tucking" action is essential for creating a secure seal and preventing leaks. The disc should feel snug and you should no longer feel it. If inserted correctly, you won't feel it at all.
Tips for a Successful Insertion
- Relaxation is Key: Tensing up can make insertion difficult. Take a few deep breaths and try to relax your pelvic floor muscles.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don't get discouraged if it doesn't work perfectly the first time. It often takes a few tries to get the hang of it. Try practicing on a lighter flow day or even before your period starts.
- Know Your Anatomy: Understanding where your pubic bone is can help you guide the disc correctly. You can feel for it with a clean finger.
- Check Placement: After insertion, gently run a finger around the rim to ensure it feels fully open and tucked behind your pubic bone. If it feels like it's slipping or you feel a part of the rim, it might not be properly tucked.
Understanding Menstrual Disc Placement
A menstrual disc sits differently than a tampon or menstrual cup. It rests in the vaginal fornix, a wider area at the base of your cervix, and is held in place by your pubic bone. This unique placement is what allows for features like mess-free period sex.
Removing Your Ziggy Disc
Removing a menstrual disc can sometimes be a bit messy, depending on how full it is and the specific brand. It's often recommended to try removing it in the shower when you're first learning, as this can make cleanup easier.
To remove:
- Wash Your Hands: Again, hygiene is paramount.
- Get Comfortable: Squatting or sitting on the toilet can help lower your cervix and make the disc easier to reach.
- Hook the Rim: Reach a clean finger inside and hook it under the front rim of the disc.
- Gently Pull Out: Slowly and carefully pull the disc straight out, trying to keep it level to minimize spills.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Wash hands thoroughly | Rush the process |
| Angle towards your tailbone | Push straight up |
| Tuck the rim behind the pubic bone | Leave the disc untucked |
| Practice in a relaxed environment | Give up after the first try |
| Consider removal in the shower initially | Ignore discomfort (re-adjust if needed) |
