7 Tips on Using a Menstrual Disc as a Teen

If you've been using pads but want something you can wear while swimming or something that doesn't show while you're playing sports, a menstrual disc might be the perfect product for you! Also, if you're nervous about using tampons because you've heard of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), menstrual discs are already a safer option.

In this guide, I'll go through everything that helped me when I first started using a menstrual disc as a teen, plus a few products that might come in handy. I'll also share some tips on how to insert it with less discomfort, especially if you're younger or petite.

How to Use a Menstrual Disc as a Teen

I have an entire video on how to use a menstrual disc, and I highly recommend watching it! The tips below are specifically for younger women, petite women, and even preteens (around 11 or 12 years old). And yes, you can use a menstrual disc as long as you've had at least one period.

That being said, you may still want to watch the video for the complete step-by-step instructions. Think of these more as extra tips that I wish I had known when I first started using a menstrual disc.

Tip 1: Use the Pixie Small Disc

This size works great for teens or petite women. It's one of the smallest discs on the market and is 40% smaller than the average menstrual disc. I would definitely recommend starting with this one if you're younger and have never used an internal period product before.

The Pixie Small Disc also has a long string, which makes removing it feel much more like removing a tampon. That means you don't have to worry about not being able to reach it!

Tip 2: Use Lube

This might be one of my favorite tips and something that helps me out the most! I recommend using Pixie Lube because it's water-based and safe to use with your menstrual disc. If you don't have lube, at the very least, make sure to wet the disc before inserting it. This can make insertion much more comfortable.

Tip 3: Practice Before Your Period

One of the nice things about menstrual discs is that you can actually practice inserting them before your period starts, and I highly recommend doing that! It gives you a chance to figure out where the disc needs to sit without the added stress of being on your period.

Tip 4: Wear a Pad While You're Learning

This might sound strange, but I highly recommend wearing a Pixie Pad while you're learning to use a menstrual disc. It can take up to three periods to really get the hang of it. At least, that's how long it took me! Some people figure it out much faster, but it definitely took me a little practice.

While you're learning, you might have some leaks simply because the disc isn't positioned quite right yet. Once you've figured it out and you're no longer leaking onto your pad, you can confidently switch to wearing just the disc. Again, I would recommend watching our Full Tutorial on how to use a menstrual disc on YouTube. 

If you don't have any pads right now, we do have some great ones that are made with 100% organic cotton, and our Pixie Pads are much gentler than many other options.

Tip 5: Squat While Inserting

This might be one of the most helpful tips on this list. Aside from using lube to help with insertion. Squatting makes insertion much easier and much more comfortable. I usually do this in the shower because I can get into a deeper squat, but you can also use a squatty potty if you'd like. Personally, I think a full squat works even better.

Tip 6: Use the Pixie Disc Applicator

This option isn't for everyone, but many teens really like it, especially if they've already used tampons before.

The Pixie Disc Applicator allows you to insert your small disc without using your fingers and works very similarly to a tampon applicator. That said, it is a little larger, and I know some teens find it uncomfortable the first few times they use it. If you think it would make a tricky insertion easier, though, I'd definitely give it a try! Pixie has a satisfaction guarantee that you can take advantage of if it doesn't work for you, though I'd definitely give it a try! Here is a YouTube Video on how it works! 

Tip 7: What to Do in a Public Restroom

I want to clarify something first. The Pixie Small Disc holds about the same as three regular tampons and can be worn for up to 12 hours, which means you most likely won’t have to ever empty it in the public restroom. 

However, if you have a heavier flow, you may need to empty it before the 12-hour mark or consider sizing up. If you need to empty your disc while you're at school or out at an event, our Carry Cup makes it easy to rinse your disc privately. It also doubles as a sanitizing cup for your menstrual disc. I'll link a video showing exactly how to use it.

I hope these tips help you as much as they helped me! There is so much more to learn about menstrual discs, so if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment. I'd be happy to answer them! And if you have any tips that helped you learn how to use a menstrual disc, I'd love for you to share them too—they might help someone else who's just getting started.