Can You Use a Menstrual Disc With an IUD? Here's What You Need to Know

Whether you've just had your IUD inserted or you've had one for years, you might be wondering how it fits into your period care routine – especially if you're considering switching to a menstrual disc.

Can you use a disc with an IUD? Will it dislodge the device? What about the strings?

Let’s break down how to use the Hey Zomi disc safely and comfortably with an IUD – and what to expect if you’re new to the IUD experience.

Yes, the Hey Zomi Disc Is IUD-Friendly 🙌

We’ve designed the Hey Zomi disc with all bodies in mind – and yes, that includes those with an IUD.

Whether you’re using a hormonal IUD like the Mirena or a non-hormonal copper IUD, our disc is a low-suction, flexible option that fits your anatomy – not the other way around.

You’ll even see "IUD-friendly" printed on the box, because we want every menstruator to feel confident in their choice of period care.

First Up – What Actually Is an IUD?

If you’ve ever googled “what is an IUD?” or “does getting an IUD hurt?”, you’re far from alone. These are some of the most common search questions about birth control and period care.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped piece of plastic that sits inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy. It’s long-acting, highly effective, and doesn’t require daily maintenance.

There are two types:

• Hormonal IUDs (like Mirena, Kyleena, or Jaydess) slowly release a form of progestin
• Copper IUDs are hormone-free and use copper to prevent fertilisation

Both work by changing the environment of the uterus and cervix, making it harder for sperm to survive and reach an egg.

Does IUD Insertion Hurt?

This is probably the second most googled question after “what is an IUD?”

The short answer: it can be uncomfortable – and for some people, yes, it hurts.

Everyone’s experience is different. You might feel cramping or pressure, like an intense period pain, during and after the insertion. For others, it’s more of a sharp pinch that passes quickly. Taking an over-the-counter painkiller like ibuprofen beforehand (as advised by your doctor) can help manage any discomfort.

The procedure itself is fairly quick and usually done at your GP or gynaecologist’s office. You’ll lie down like you would for a Pap smear, and your doctor will insert the device through your cervix and into your uterus. The strings are then trimmed so they sit just outside the cervix – and voilà, you’re done.

Some cramping and spotting afterwards is totally normal.

Of course, if symptoms are not as expected, you should go to your health professional or the hospital right away.

So, Can You Use a Menstrual Disc With an IUD?

Yes – once your IUD has settled and your doctor gives you the green light. 👍

Here’s why it works so well:

Discs don’t rely on suction.
Unlike period cups, which use suction to stay in place and sit lower in the vaginal canal, discs like Hey Zomi are held in place by your anatomy – tucked into the vaginal fornix, which is the space just beneath your cervix. That means there’s no downward pressure of suction, and unlikely that you would pull out your IUD.

You might feel the strings – and that’s okay.
IUD strings usually sit just at the cervical opening. Depending on the length of these strings sitting within the vagina, you might feel them when feeling your cervix with your finger. If they bother you or get in the way, your doctor can trim them. Many people leave them as is and simply insert and remove the disc gently. 

Can your partner feel your IUD strings during intercourse?

This is such a great question and there hasn't been a lot of research or feedback on this. But recently we had a Hey Zomi customer write in with this:

Tips for Using a Disc With an IUD

Once your IUD has been in for at least six weeks and your doctor’s given you the all-clear, here’s how to make your disc experience as smooth and comfortable as possible:

• Relax your pelvic floor before inserting or removing the disc
• Angle it back and down toward your tailbone – that’s the natural curve of your vaginal canal
• Take it slow when removing – hook a clean finger under the disc handle and bear down gently to bring the disc lower if needed. Don't forget to keep your fingers and hand up out of the way and removal is always best in the shower.

Most people find that with a little practice, using a disc becomes second nature – and doesn’t interfere with their IUD at all.

Common Questions We Hear

Can I use the Hey Zomi disc with a Mirena IUD?
Yes. Our disc is safe to use with all types of IUDs, including hormonal options like Mirena, once the device has settled and your doctor has given the go-ahead.

How long should I wait to use a disc after getting an IUD?
Most GPs recommend waiting at least six weeks after insertion. This allows your cervix and uterus time to settle, and reduces the risk of the IUD shifting.

Can a disc cause my IUD to come out?
It’s extremely unlikely – especially since the Hey Zomi menstrual disc doesn’t use suction. The key is gentle removal and being mindful not to pull on the strings.

What if I can feel my IUD strings near the disc?
This is quite common. If they feel too long or annoying, your GP can trim them shorter. But many users just learn to insert and remove the disc carefully and comfortably. They are usually too short to interfere anyway.

Is a menstrual disc safer than a period cup if I have an IUD?
For many people, yes. Because cups use suction and sit lower, there’s a small chance they can interfere with the IUD. Discs like Zomi sit higher and don’t create suction, which is why they’re often the preferred choice for people with an IUD.

You, Your IUD and Period Care – In Sync

Your contraception shouldn’t limit your period care options.

With a little know-how and a gentle approach, using a menstrual disc with an IUD isn’t just possible – it’s empowering. The Hey Zomi disc is designed to support your body’s natural rhythms, with less fuss and more freedom.

Want to give it a go?

👉 Shop the Hey Zomi disc →
👉 Learn how to use a menstrual disc →