Put A Cup In It

What To Know Before Trying A Menstrual Disc

Image of an anatomical model with a side view showing a menstrual disc inserted. Text over reads What To Know Before Trying A Menstrual Disc

Menstrual discs are making big waves in the world of reusable period products, boasting benefits like better protection and mess-free period sex. So what are menstrual discs all about?

Here’s What We Love About Menstrual Discs:

  • Comfortable
  • Reusable
  • Eco-Friendly
  • Better protection
  • Money-Saving

The Differences Between Menstrual Cups and Menstrual Discs

menstrual disc is similar to a menstrual cup in the way that it collects period blood and is able to be emptied as reused, unlike disposable pads or tampons which absorb blood and have to be tossed in the trash.

Menstrual cups are typically shaped more like a bell, and sit lower in your vagina. They form a seal with your vaginal wall and use suction to stay in place, and typically take up a little more room.

Menstrual discs look pretty much exactly like they sound, circle-shaped and mostly flat and thin. They get inserted higher in your vagina, in the vaginal fornix at the base of your cervix. Discs stay in place by being tucked behind the pubic bone, making them great options for IUD users.

Other Benefits of Menstrual Discs Include:

  • Up to 12 hours of protection
  • Can handle heavy flows
  • You can barely feel it once it’s in
  • Lower risk of TSS (toxic shock syndrome) and other infections

Interested in trying a menstrual disc? Check out our Menstrual Disc Quiz to find your perfect fit!

How Is A Menstrual Disc Inserted?

As we mentioned, discs are inserted a little differently than cups and sit higher in the vagina.

Check out our Menstrual Cups vs. Menstrual Discs YouTube video with demonstrations for inserting and removing both!

Here’s a quick guide on inserting a menstrual disc:

  1. Wash your hands
  2. Squeeze your disc lengthways
  3. Insert your pinched disc one end first parallel to your body
  4. Use your finger to push the rim up behind your pubic bone
  5. Once in place, you’re protected!

How Do You Remove A Menstrual Disc?

Some would say that menstrual discs can be messier than cups when it comes to insertion and removal since you have to reach a bit more into your vagina.

To Remove A Menstrual Disc:

  1. Wash your hands
  2. Sit or squat over the toilet (to avoid spilling)
  3. Reach into your vagina, pushing past the rim of the disc to hook it with your index finger
  4. Pull your disc straight out
  5. Empty the blood into the toilet
  6. Rinse or wipe, reinsert, and you’re good to go!

If you have trouble reaching your menstrual disc, try pushing down with your pelvic muscles, which will help the disc become untucked from behind the pubic bone and make it easier to reach.

You can also try auto-dumping with your menstrual disc, which involves just hooking the edge of your disc and lowering it enough to empty the blood without fully removing it from your vagina.

What Are Menstrual Discs Made Of?

Menstrual discs are usually made of BPA-free medical-grade silicone, though some are made of other durable, reusable materials like rubber or latex.

Why Are Menstrual Discs Better For Sex?

Menstrual discs are perfect for sex on your period when you don’t want menstruation to interfere. In most cases, your partner shouldn’t be able to feel it, and unless you’re having especially robust sex your disc should stay in place and prevent leakage.

Since they sit in the same place a diaphragm would, at the base of your cervix, they’re much deeper than a menstrual cup and leave more room for pleasure in your vaginal canal.

Are Menstrual Discs Good For Heavy Flows?

Menstrual discs can hold the same capacity as up to THREE super tampons or five regular tampons, which is about six teaspoons or one ounce of menstrual fluid.

More capacity means better protection and fewer trips to the bathroom to empty your disc. When inserted correctly you can expect up to 12 hours of protection without leaks—even for those with heavy period cycles.

Are There Any Risks to Menstrual Discs?

There are no more risks associated with menstrual discs or menstrual cups than other disposable period products. They won’t get stuck inside you or become permanently lodged in your vagina.

Because discs and cups collect blood and menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it like pads or tampons, the risk of infections like TSS (toxic shock syndrome) is no greater.

Menstrual discs, menstrual cups, period panties, and reusable pads are all becoming more popular options for sustainable, affordable period management. The best way to figure out your personal preference and what works best for you is to dive in and try it!

If you’re looking for an option that’s super comfortable, allows for less messy period sex, and offers all-day protection for whatever you’re up to, a menstrual disc may be the product for you!

One Response

  1. When my cycle became unbearably heavy I moved to a disc and loved the ease. I loved how I could run to the bathroom and “bear down” and it would empty itself vs trying to get a cup out and then back in. Because of this aspect it was easier to just wait till I showered to remove it and just wash up. If you are removing at the toilet you can empty it by “bearing down” before pulling it out. I didn’t think it was any messier than a cup and was definitely more appropriate for super heavy flows. They also have a flex reusable disc instead of the disposable.

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