What are menstrual cups and discs?

Cups were innovated as a more sustainable and cost-efficient alternative. But it’s not advised to wear a cup when you have IUD or want to have sex (penetration). That’s when the menstrual disc came into the market. An alternative that catches menstruation blood without suction in the vaginal canal.  When it comes to a menstrual cup vs disc, the disc is inserted deeper in the vaginal fornix, which gives the opportunity for mess-free sex without feeling the disc. 

Menstrual cups and discs are reusable menstruation products which are a more environmental-friendly alternative for pads and tampons. Menstrual discs and cups have medical grade of silicone which is inserted in vagina to catch the menstruation blood. Menstrual cups forms suction on vaginal walls in an effort to prevent leaks and can be left for a maximum of 12 hours. Menstrual cups and discs have a universal appeal. Plus, they are comfortable, effective, and waste-minimizing, compared to pads and tampons.

Biggest Differences

Biggest Similarities

Menstrual Disc vs Cup: Activity suitability

• Menstrual Cups are secure due to their suction, making them suitable for a wide range of activities, including sports and swimming.

• Menstrual Discs also provide a high degree of freedom and are generally comfortable during physical activities. Unique to discs, they allow for mess-free period sex since they do not obstruct the vaginal canal.

Comfortable feel

Many users find discs quite comfortable as discs rest in a firm, secure position in a vaginal fornix, a recess above and below the cervix. Discs, in contrast to some cups, have no suction, which on certain days can be a discomfort. This makes discs virtually invisible when being worn.

Suitable for everybody

Menstrual discs are appropriate for a different body shapes, or ones with different medical circumstance, such as a sloping lower cervix, or who have been bothered by cups. The flexible shape of discs is well-suited for various body shapes, so a fitted style based on suction is not necessary.

Finding the perfect size and shape can be difficult due to a wide variety of various shapes and sizes of cups. The wrong size is accompanied by discomfort and/or leakage, prompting a return for another attempt on a different model in search of a perfect fit.

Physical sensitivity to removal

Some users find discomfort or sensitivity caused by the material of the cup, especially for users who have allergies for rubber and silicone. Sucking of the cup can, on other occasions, be discomforting for users who have a sensitive bladder or find pain in the pelvic area.

One of the major demerits of discs is that, in contradistinction to cups, which have suction, discs can be messy when being withdrawn. Since discs make zero utilization of suction in staying, there is a possibility of sudden release when being withdrawn, which can lead to mess.

Insertion Technique

Inserting a disc can be difficult, particularly for a beginner. The disc is folded and inserted in a definite position in the fornix of the vagina, just in the back of the cervix, and this can take a little experience in learning your body.

Although menstrual discs have a straightforward shape, there is a learning process. New users can take a few cycles of time getting accustomed to inserting and taking out the disc in a convenient process, which won't be a pain or a mess.

Our advice on selecting a menstrual disk vs cup is as follows

To be honest, a cup and a disc can each be a good solution for a pain-free, leak-free time of the month. Ask these following 6 questions prior to purchasing a cup or disc:

1. How much do you exercise?

Consider how active your daily routine is, particularly if it contains a large amount of extreme exercises. Menstrual discs and cups alike are a help when doing exercise, though discs might be a wiser idea when doing extreme exercises. This is due to being in place in the vaginal fornix, rather than in the vaginal canal, so it is not so chance for it to slide and is safer when doing extreme movements.

2. How is your menstrual flow?

Before deciding on which menstruation product is ideal for you, consider your flow. Menstrual discs have a larger capacity compared to cups, so for those who experience a heavy flow, discs can be a wonderful solution since there is minimal change required throughout a given day and there is minimal fear of leakage. Knowing your amount of flow can help in determining which disc or cup is ideal for your needs of comfort and convenience throughout your time of menstruation.

3. Are you sexually active during your period?

Before choosing a menstrual cup vs disc, consider when and if you want to have sex when on your period. Menstrual discs have an advantage of being able to stay in for penetrative sex. And a mess-free experience, compared to using menstrual cups which you will feel. This can be a major point of difference in your decision, especially if keeping it in place and being able to have an uninterrupted experience is a necessity for you.

4. Are you comfortable with deeper insertion? 

Before choosing a menstruation disc or cup, consider its insertion easiness, since discs and cups have a learning curve. Menstrual discs can be more difficult for users to insert since it needs to be inserted more deeply. The firm shape of cups, on the other hand, can make it easier for new users. In considering which of these factors is more in line with your experience of using your menstruation disc or cup can be made easier. 

5. Do you have an IUD or suction sensitivity? 

Before choosing a menstruation product, consider medical conditions such as suction sensitivity, an IUD. Menstrual discs have zero suction when inserted, a blessing for a person who might have an IUD, as well as for anyone who is discomforted by suction due to a cup. This makes discs a potentially perfect alternative, reducing risk of tampering an IUD and being a more pleasant experience for a person who endures sensitivities.

It is all about your body, your lifestyle, and your body needs. If your lifestyle is active, or for mess-free sex on your period, a disc may be for you. If, however, your style is for sure prevention of leaks, along with a variety of size options, a cup is for you. Each of these is great for the Earth, and can make a big difference in your period. Try each, and see which is best for your needs. See a medical professional for questions about IUD usage, or sensitivity.