Menstrual Disc Vs Cups
Menstrual Disc vs Cup: A Clear Comparison to Help You Choose
What Are Menstrual Cups and Discs?
Definition and Purpose
Menstrual cups and discs are both reusable, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional period products. They both collect menstrual fluid and can be worn for up to 12 hours. Menstrual cups and discs are made from medical-grade silicone and usually come in a range of sizes.
Key Differences Menstrual Disc Vs Cup
Positioning and Design
Menstrual cups sit in the vaginal canal, using suction to stay in place.
Menstrual discs sit high in the vaginal, resting behind the pubic bone and do not use any suction to stay in place.
Menstrual discs have a higher capacity than menstrual cups, holding up to 3-6 tampons worth of fluid.
Comfort and Wearability
Comfort Comparison
Menstrual discs and cups are both made from medical grade silicone which is soft and comfortable. Some brands make both cups and reusable discs, made from the same material.
Menstrual discs are often considered more comfortable than cups due to their placement, design and because they are suction free.
Menstrual cups are often considered to be easier to get in position than discs as discs go much higher.
Menstrual cups can be more tricky to remove as you must break the seal to remove them. Once you are used to the technique they are very simple to remove.
Both menstrual cups and discs are designed to be leak-free and comfortable to wear.
Sizing and Volume Capacity
Sizing Options
Menstrual cups come in various sizes to accommodate different cervix heights and vaginal canal widths.
Menstrual discs often come in one size, but some brands offer smaller sizes for those who are younger, lighter flows or just struggle / feel uncomfortable with a larger disc.
Sizing is less important for menstrual discs because they don’t rely on suction.
Volume Capacity
Menstrual discs generally have a higher capacity than menstrual cups. The Nixit discs holds up to 70ml of menstrual fluid.
Menstrual cups typically hold around 30ml of menstrual fluid, although some high-capacity cups can hold up to 50ml of period blood.
Insertion and Removal
Insertion Techniques
Menstrual cups require folding before insertion, while menstrual discs do not.
Using a water-based lubricant can help with insertion and removal of both products. Some people including myself just rinse the cup or disc under the tap to help with insertion.
Proper insertion and removal techniques are important for effective use and to avoid discomfort. It can take practise and is a bit of a learning curve but once you have mastered it you will find emptying/inserting your cup or disc very quick and simple.
Removal Techniques
Most menstrual cups have holes around the rim to allow the cup to create light suction and stay secur against the vaginal wall. Menstrual cups require breaking the suction seal before removal, while discs are removed by hooking a finger under the rim or pulling a loop tab. Cups generally allow for mess free removal to change as they are deeper but again the usual method to empty is also whilst sitting on the toilet or in the shower.
Menstrual discs can be messier to remove as the disc is shallower. A full menstrual disc could spill easier so we recommend removing whilst sitting on the toilet or in the shower. Simply grab the rim and twist the disc to release from behind the cervix. Then pull the disc out of the vaginal opening.
Sex and Intimacy
Sex with Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs can be worn during penetrative vaginal sex, allowing for no-mess period sex.
Menstrual cups must be removed for penetrative sex.
Menstrual discs sit below the cervix and do not interfere with penetrative intercourse.
IUD Compatibility
IUD Compatibility with Menstrual Discs and Cups
Menstrual discs are recommended for those with an IUD, as they don’t use suction and are less likely to dislodge the IUD.
Menstrual cups can dislodge an IUD if the suction is not broken properly before removal.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Benefits of Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs offer a higher capacity and mess-free period sex option.
They are often considered more comfortable than cups due to their placement and design.
Menstrual discs are a good option for those with a heavy period or who want a mess-free period sex option.
Benefits of Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are a great option for those transitioning from pads or tampons or as a first-time product.
They offer a variety of choices, from shape, size, and firmness to different rims and stems.
Menstrual cups are easier to insert correctly than discs.
Choosing between Menstrual Discs and Cups
Considerations for Choosing
Consider your cervix height, vaginal canal width, and menstrual flow when choosing between a menstrual disc and cup.
Think about your lifestyle and preferences, such as whether you want a mess-free period sex option or a product that is easy to insert and remove.
Both menstrual discs and cups are great options, but it’s essential to choose the product that works best for you. You might find you like a combination of both to balance the higher capacity of a disc for your heavier days plus the option of no mess period sex and a cup for ease of emptying.
Conclusion
Summary and Final Thoughts
Menstrual discs and cups are both reusable, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional period products. They have distinct differences in terms of positioning, design, comfort, and volume capacity.By considering your needs and preferences, you can choose the best product for you and enjoy a more comfortable and convenient period experience.