What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc is a shallow, flexible, saucer-shaped period product that is pinched and inserted into the vagina, where it sits high in the vaginal fornix, just below the cervix, to collect period blood. Unlike a cup it doesn't rely on suction. Discs come in disposable and reusable versions and can usually be worn for up to 12 hours.
Disc vs cup
| Menstrual disc | Menstrual cup | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Flat, wide rim with a soft bag | Bell or cup |
| Where it sits | High, tucked behind the pubic bone | Lower in the vaginal canal |
| Seal | No suction | Gentle suction |
| Wear time | Up to 12 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Wear during sex | Some disposable discs say yes | No |
| With an IUD | Often preferred, as there's no suction | Break the seal carefully |
How to use one
- Wash your hands and pinch the disc into a figure eight.
- Insert it toward your tailbone, sliding it back as far as it goes.
- Tuck the front rim up behind your pubic bone.
- To remove, hook a finger under the rim and pull out slowly, keeping it level.
Discs can "auto-dump" a little when you use the toilet, which some people find handy and others find messy. They often suit people who find cups uncomfortable or who have a low cervix.
Compare other options: menstrual cup, tampon and period underwear. The cup vs tampon guide covers how internal products compare.
As with any internal period product, get urgent care for a sudden high fever, rash, vomiting or dizziness during your period, which can signal toxic shock syndrome.
Frequently asked questions
Can a menstrual disc get stuck?
It can sit high and be hard to reach, but it can't get lost. Squat and bear down gently to bring the rim within reach.
Do menstrual discs leak?
They can while you learn the fit, or if the front rim isn't tucked behind the pubic bone. Most people find a few cycles of practice helps.
Are menstrual discs better for heavy periods?
Many hold more than a regular cup or tampon, which some people with heavy flow like. If you fill one every hour or two, talk to a doctor about heavy bleeding.
Sources
- FDA: The Facts on Tampons and How to Use Them Safely
- NHS: Toxic shock syndrome
- van Eijk AM et al. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability. Lancet Public Health (2019)
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
Menstrual cup: definition and meaningA menstrual cup is a reusable silicone cup worn inside the vagina to collect period blood. How it works, how long you can wear it, and safety tips.Tampon: definition and meaningWhat a tampon is, how absorbency levels work, how often to change one, and how to lower the rare risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Plain answers.Reusable period products: definition and meaningReusable period products, like cups, discs, period underwear and cloth pads, are washed and used again. How each works, costs, safety and how to choose.
Menstrual cup vs tampon: which is better for you?Menstrual cup vs tampon: how they compare on leaks, wear time, TSS risk, cost and comfort, based on research, so you can pick what suits your period.How often should you change a tampon?How often should you change a tampon? Every 4 to 8 hours, never more than 8, per the FDA. Picking absorbency, sleeping in one, and signs of TSS to know.