When I first started using a menstrual disc, I was already excited about how much freedom it gave me. No more worrying about leaks during long days, no more skipping surfing sessions just because I was on my period. But there was one thing I hadn’t expected - the so-called self-emptying effect. The first time it happened, I was both surprised and fascinated. Could a period product really empty itself without me having to remove it?
Yes, it can. And that’s exactly why so many people are switching to what’s now called a self-emptying period disc.
What is a self-emptying period disc?
A self-emptying period disc is simply a menstrual disc that naturally releases some of its collected fluid when you go to the toilet. This happens due to the way the disc sits inside the body. Unlike tampons or menstrual cups, which stay in the vaginal canal, a disc sits higher up, in the vaginal fornix, just below the cervix. It is held in place by the pubic bone, rather than relying on suction like a menstrual cup.
When you bear down - like when you have a bowel movement or pee - your pelvic floor muscles shift slightly, causing the rim of the disc to move. This can create a small opening that allows some menstrual fluid to flow out. Then, once you stand up, the disc moves back into place, continuing to collect blood without needing to be removed.
How does a self-emptying period disc work?
The self-emptying effect doesn’t mean the disc completely empties itself - it simply allows for a partial release of fluid, which can extend the time you can wear it without needing to remove and rinse it. This makes it especially useful for long workdays, travel, or any situation where you don’t have easy access to a private bathroom.
Here’s why it works:
- Positioning: A menstrual disc sits higher in the vaginal canal than a cup, tucked behind the pubic bone.
- Pelvic floor movement: When you bear down (especially during a bowel movement), the disc shifts slightly, creating a small gap.
- Fluid release: Some blood flows out naturally into the toilet.
- Repositioning: When you’re done, the disc moves back into place, ready to continue collecting blood.
This feature is unique to menstrual discs and is something you don’t get with tampons or menstrual cups.
Is it messy?
One of the biggest concerns people have when they hear about self-emptying discs is whether it’s messy. The good news? It’s usually not. Because the blood flows directly into the toilet, there’s no mess on your hands or clothing. Some people might notice a bit of blood when wiping, but overall, it’s a surprisingly clean process.
However, the self-emptying effect doesn’t happen for everyone. Some people experience it every time they go to the bathroom, while others never do - it depends on individual anatomy and how the disc sits in your body.
For me, the self-emptying effect was a total game-changer. It made using a menstrual disc even more convenient, and I knew that if I found it helpful, others would too. While I still use my nookees pads for everyday wear, the menstrual disc gives me another option when I need complete freedom.
