Why Your Menstrual Disc Hurts to Insert (And How to Fix It)

You shouldn’t feel pain when inserting a menstrual disc. But if you do, you’re definitely not alone. Many first-time users experience discomfort, pressure, or even cramps during insertion—and it can be discouraging.

The good news? Pain is almost never caused by the disc itself. It usually comes down to angle, tension, or placement. Once you understand what’s happening and how to adjust, insertion becomes smooth, simple, and pain-free.

Let’s break down the three main reasons your menstrual disc might hurt to insert, plus an easy way to make every cycle more comfortable.

1. Hitting Your Cervix During Menstrual Disc Insertion

If you’ve ever felt a sharp, sudden pain while inserting your disc, you probably bumped your cervix. It’s one of the most common beginner mistakes.

Here’s why it happens. The vaginal canal isn’t straight up and down like a tunnel—it’s angled slightly back toward your tailbone. So if you insert the disc straight up, the rim can hit the cervix directly, causing that instant, “ouch” feeling.

Instead, think of the disc as following a gentle curve. Aim it back and slightly down, almost like you’re guiding it toward your lower back. Sitting on the toilet or placing one leg on the edge of the tub naturally helps your body find this angle. Once you get that motion right, insertion usually becomes smooth and painless.

2. Pelvic Floor Tension Makes Everything Feel Tighter

Sometimes it’s not about technique—it’s about tension. When you’re nervous, rushed, or expecting it to hurt, your pelvic floor muscles react by tightening. These are the same muscles that contract when you hold in urine, and when they tense up, the vaginal opening narrows.

That tightness can make insertion feel like pushing against resistance or even create a burning or stretching sensation. The more you force it, the worse it gets.

To ease this, try to slow everything down. Take a few deep breaths before inserting. You can also squat or sit on the toilet to help your muscles relax naturally. A warm shower beforehand helps too. And always use a little water-based lubricant—it makes a big difference.

When your body feels calm, insertion feels almost effortless.

3. The Disc Isn’t Fully Tucked Behind the Pubic Bone

Even when insertion goes smoothly, the disc can still feel uncomfortable if it’s not positioned correctly once inside. The front rim of the disc needs to tuck behind your pubic bone so it stays in place and feels secure.

If it isn’t tucked high enough, the disc may press against the vaginal wall or feel like it’s slipping down. That dull, constant pressure or mild cramping you feel? It’s often just the rim sitting too low.

After inserting, use a finger to check that the rim has moved up and back until it feels snug. When it’s in the right position, you shouldn’t feel the disc at all—it should feel weightless and natural.

4. Inserting at the Wrong Angle or Depth

Not every vaginal canal has the same shape or depth. If the disc isn’t angled far enough back or pushed deep enough to reach the fornix (the space behind the cervix), it may fold incorrectly or press in the wrong spot.

When this happens, insertion can feel tight, awkward, or painful—and leaks are more likely because the rim doesn’t sit flush.

Using a mirror or even feeling for your cervix before you start can help you understand your anatomy better. Once you know which direction your canal tilts, it’s easier to guide the disc along that natural path rather than fighting against it.

5. The Disc Is Dry or Too Much Friction

One of the simplest causes of pain is dryness. When there isn’t enough moisture, friction increases, and even a soft silicone disc can feel uncomfortable going in.

This can happen if you’re near the beginning or end of your period, or if you’ve been using tampons that absorb natural lubrication.

A small amount of water-based lubricant or even running the disc under warm water before inserting can make a huge difference. That light coating helps it glide in smoothly and eliminates the feeling of “dragging” or pressure.

Using a Menstrual Disc Applicator for Effortless Insertion

Even with all these tips, it can be tough to get the angle, depth, and tuck perfect every single time.. especially if you’re new to discs. That’s where a menstrual disc applicator completely changes the experience.

The NEYA Menstrual Disc Applicator is designed to follow the natural curve of your vagina, automatically guiding the disc toward the back without bumping your cervix or creating extra pressure. It removes the guesswork, keeps your body relaxed, and ensures a consistent, comfortable fit every time.

You don’t need to twist, reach deep, or struggle with finding the right position. The applicator does it for you. That means less tension, no pain, and a smooth glide that feels as simple as inserting a tampon. 

Be sure to check it out by clicking here.