Menstrual Disc vs Cup | What's the Difference?

When it comes to eco-friendly and cost-effective period care options, menstrual discs and cups are two popular choices. Both can be worn for up to 12 hours, collect rather than absorb period flow, and come in reusable or disposable options. However, they differ in design, placement, and functionality. If you’re wondering which might be the best fit for you, this blog post will help you make an informed decision.

Menstrual Disc vs Cup: A Quick Overview

Both menstrual discs and cups serve the same purpose—collecting menstrual blood—but they do so in different ways:

• Menstrual Cup: A flexible, bell-shaped cup that sits within the vaginal canal, held in place by a seal that creates light suction.
• Menstrual Disc: A flat, round disc that rests higher up in the vaginal fornix, behind the pelvic bone, without using suction.

Let’s explore these differences in more detail.

Placement: Where They Sit

• Menstrual Cup: Inserted into the vaginal canal, the cup forms a seal that creates light suction, helping it stay in place. This placement makes it slightly easier to access for beginners and teens.
• Menstrual Disc: Sits higher up in the vaginal fornix and rests behind the pelvic bone. While this can feel more comfortable for some, it can also be trickier to insert and remove for beginners.

Insertion and Removal

• Menstrual Cup:
  • Insertion: Fold the cup using a shallow punch-down fold and insert it while keeping it compressed. Once inside, it naturally opens and creates a seal.
  • Removal: Pinch the base to break the suction seal before pulling it out. This step is crucial to avoid discomfort and can take practice, especially for beginners.
• Menstrual Disc:
  • Insertion: Fold the disc in half and insert it with the tab or rim at the bottom. Once placed behind the pelvic bone, it stays in position without suction.
  • Removal: Hook a finger under the rim or pull the loop tab to remove it. This method often allows for less messy removal compared to a cup.

Comfort and Fit

• Menstrual Cup: Available in a variety of sizes and shapes, menstrual cups can suit a wide range of needs, including those with high or low cervixes or women who participate in high-impact activities. They’re a great starting point for anyone transitioning from pads or tampons.
• Menstrual Disc: Menstrual discs are generally smaller, which can make them more comfortable for some. Most people fit the same disc size, simplifying the selection process.

Capacity

• Menstrual Cup: Holds the equivalent of 3–4 regular tampons or pads.
• Menstrual Disc: Has a larger capacity, equal to about 5 tampons or pads, making it ideal for heavier flows.

Unique Benefits

• Menstrual Disc:
  • Can be worn during sex since it doesn’t occupy the vaginal canal.
  • May feel less finicky for some due to its higher placement in the vagina.
• Menstrual Cup:
  • Excellent for first-time users due to its simpler placement.
  • Eco-friendly and budget-friendly, with most cups lasting 1–5 years.

Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between a menstrual disc vs cup depends on your preferences, anatomy, and lifestyle:

• Consider a Menstrual Cup if:
  • You’re transitioning from pads or tampons.
  • You want a customizable fit with options for high or low cervix heights.
  • You prefer a product that provides a secure seal during high-impact activities.
• Consider a Menstrual Disc if:
  • You want the option for no-mess period sex.
  • You need a higher-capacity product for heavy flows.
  • You’re looking for something that sits higher in the vaginal fornix and may feel more comfortable.

Both menstrual cups and discs are excellent choices for eco-friendly, long-lasting period care. Understanding the differences in how they work, where they sit, and their unique benefits can help you decide which product best fits your needs. Whether you start with a menstrual cup or try a disc later, you’ll find these options are not only better for the environment but can also make your period more manageable.