One of the most common obstacles to using a menstrual disc is the fear of cleaning. However, after a few uses, this step becomes very simple and quick!
The beauty of the Fornix Menstrual Disc is that you can use it every cycle for up to 10 years (or until it shows signs of deterioration), if properly cared and stored.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- How to clean your menstrual disc before your first use
- A proper cleaning, step by step, and products to avoid
- What to do if you need to empty your disc between cleanings
- Cleaning your disc on the go
- Properly storing your disc
- And what to do if your disc gets stained
Cleaning your menstrual disc before first use
The Fornix Menstrual Disc is designed to be reused every time you have your period. It is made of 100% medical grade silicone and requires regular cleaning and proper storage to extend its lifespan as long as possible.
You now have your Fornix Menstrual Disc in your hands, yay! Before using your disc for the first time, it is important to sanitize it. You have a few options for doing this, so you can simply choose the one that suits you best.
The most popular option is to immerse it in boiling water for about 5 minutes in a pan on the stove. Once the time has elapsed, turn off the heat, remove your disc with tongs and cool it under cold water if you want to use it right away. Otherwise, you can let it air dry.
Tip : Insert your disc into a metal whisk or tongs held in the closed position before placing it in the hot water. This will prevent it from burning on the bottom of the pan if you forget about it and all the water evaporates.
Another option is to bring a cup of water to a boil in the microwave and submerge your disc in the water. Place a small plate on top, then after 5 minutes your disc will be sanitized.
A third option is to clean all surfaces of your disc with 70% isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth and then let it dry thoroughly. It is important that your disc is completely dry before washing and inserting it, as this product may irritate your vaginal mucous membranes.
Note that if you ever accidentally drop your disk in the toilet and want to reuse it, it is possible to do so, but only if you have sanitized it using one of the methods described above. If you prefer not to reuse it and replace it, still take the time to remove it from the toilet to prevent the disk from getting stuck in the pipe and clogging the toilet.
How to clean, step by step
During your period, before removing your disc, start by washing your hands to avoid unwanted bacteria coming into contact with your vagina or your menstrual disc.
Once you have removed your disc, empty it into the toilet or shower and rinse it with cool water to remove menstrual fluids. Clean your disc by lathering it with a mild (pH-balanced), unscented, oil-free soap and rinse it well to remove any soap residue. You can now reinsert it while it is still wet, as the water acts as a natural lubricant.
Note that a pH-balanced cleanser is best to avoid interfering with the natural pH balance of the vagina in case there is any soap residue left on your disc. The pH of the vagina is quite acidic and many cleansers are too alkaline for this area. Changing its pH can lead to irritation and infection.
Products to avoid when cleaning
To clean your menstrual disc, avoid perfumed, strong or oil-based products, as they can irritate the vaginal mucous membranes or damage the silicone. You will find the list of products to avoid in our user guide provided with the disc.
It's also important to not put your menstrual disc in the dishwasher and to avoid soaking it in anything other than water.
What to do if you need to empty your disk between cleanings
The good news is that your menstrual disc only needs to be cleaned morning and night or every 12 hours at the most!
So if you have a very heavy flow and prefer to remove it completely to empty it during the day, here are some tips that will make your life easier.
With clean hands, once your disc is removed and emptied into the toilet, you can simply put it back in even if there is still menstrual fluid stuck to the surface.
If you don't like the idea of putting menstrual fluid back into your vagina, you can wipe your disc with dry or wet toilet paper. To wet your toilet paper, you can do so at the bathroom sink before entering the stall or with a bottle of water that you bring with you into the stall. Double-check that no toilet paper residue is stuck to your disc before putting it back in.
If you have a water bottle, you can also rinse it over the toilet before reinserting it while still wet.
One difference between the cup and the menstrual disc is that for some people, it is possible to practice controlled self-emptying of the disc into the toilet, which is very convenient when menstrual flow is heavy. In most cases, the disc repositions itself by relaxing the muscles used to go to the toilet. If not, just push it back into place with a clean finger.
How does it work?
By contracting the muscles used to go to the toilet, the menstrual disc untucks from above the pubic bone. The front of the disc drops slightly into the vaginal canal and menstrual fluids flow out of the disc.
Sitting on the toilet with your knees elevated helps to successful self-emptying.
For some people, it is easier to do this when the disc is full of menstrual fluid becausee the weight helps push it down. However, self-emptying is not possible for everyone.
How to clean your Fornix Menstrual Disc when you're not at home
If you're in a bathroom with a sink, hooray! You can clean your menstrual disc just like you would at home. Note that the soap provided in public places is often too perfumed and may contain oil, so the ideal, if you are able to do so, is to bring some of the soap you usually use.
If you are in a stall, you can remove your disc, wipe it with toilet paper, get dressed and clean it in one of the communal sinks, then return to the stall to reinsert it.
If you have a bottle of water and your soap with you in the cabin, you can also clean it and rinse it over the toilet before reinserting it while it is still wet.
How to properly store your Fornix Menstrual Disc
It is essential to store your disc in a well-ventilated area to avoid the formation of mould or bad odours. You should therefore never store your disc in a plastic bag or an airtight container. You can leave it in the cotton pouch provided with the purchase of your disc, put it in your underwear drawer or any other place that allows air to circulate, as long as it is protected from humidity.
What to do about stains on your menstrual disc
We are often asked how to remove stains from your menstrual disc.
First of all, let's remember that it is completely normal for your disc to discolour over time, given that your disc is in contact with your menstrual fluids for the entire duration of your periods. The speed of discolouration varies from one person to another depending on the composition of the blood which is specific to each person. This is what prompted us to choose the “shadow gray” colour in order to reduce the contrast between the gradual discolouration and the original colour.
To slow down the discolouration of your menstrual disc, one tip is to always rinse it with cold water to avoid "cooking" the blood with hot water. Once the blood is removed, you can clean your disc with warm or hot water without any problem.
But don't worry, the discolouration of your disc does not compromise its integrity, and you can continue to use it safely!
If the stains bother you, you can rub your disc with a soft cloth to remove it.
Warning! Before wearing your menstrual disc, always check that it is in good condition, without tears, cracks, foul odor, powdery or sticky texture or any other signs of deterioration. If it has any of these characteristics, replace it. The use of non-recommended cleaners and harsh chemicals can contribute to this deterioration.
Good cleaning = long life
Cleaning your Fornix Menstrual Disc is quite simple and easy. Avoid unwanted ingredients and chemicals, clean it thoroughly between each use and always store it properly in its cotton pouch or in a well-ventilated area between each of your periods.
Now that you know how to clean your menstrual disc, you can enjoy it for up to 10 years! Psst, the planet and your wallet thank you!
If you have any further questions regarding the Fornix Menstrual Disc, check out our FAQ section and follow us on Instagram for video tips.