If you explore the world of sustainable menstrual products, you will soon come across terms such as menstrual cup and menstrual disc. In a previous blog, we looked at low-tox menstrual products, where we discussed why it is important to choose products without harmful chemicals, plastics, bleaches, perfume etc.
Today, we’re going to dive deeper into the difference between cups and discs. What they have in common, what they differ from and how to make the best choice for your body and comfort within the low-tox approach.
What is low-tox (and why is it relevant)?
Briefly the gist from our blog about low-tox menstrual products:
- Many conventional tampons, pads and panty liners contain synthetics, bleach, fragrances, plastics, etc., which can cause irritation and may also have an effect on hormone balance.
- Organic cotton, medical silicone, free of fragrances and dyes, those are the materials you want to look at.
- Reusable options (cups, discs, reusable pads, menstrual underwear) are often more sustainable, both for the environment and for your own wallet.
With cups and discs, you reduce waste, limit exposure to unwanted substances and make your period more comfortable and healthier.
Menstrual cup: what is it, advantages & disadvantages
What is a menstrual cup?
A cup is a flexible cup made of medical-grade silicone (sometimes rubber or TPE) that you insert into the vagina to collect the menstrual blood. You squeeze the cup to insert, it folds out and often forms a vacuum against the walls of the vagina, so that it stays in place.
Advantages:
- Lasts a long time (often several years) → low costs in the long run.
- Reusable → much less waste than disposable products.
- You can leave it on for up to 8-12 hours depending on the flow.
- Often made of medical silicone, free of plastic and fragrances (if you choose a good low-tox cup).
- Suitable for swimming, sleeping, sports etc.
Disadvantages / points of attention:
- You have to practice inserting, opening and removing.
- Sometimes the cup feels pressure, especially if it is not the right size or if it does not unfold properly.
- The vacuum must be broken before taking it out, this can sometimes be uncomfortable.
- Hygiene is important: sterilization between cycles, regular emptying, etc.
Menstrual disc: what is it & how does it differ from the cup
What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc (also called a “menstrual disc” or “flexible disc”) is a flexible disc that you insert behind the cervix (in the upper, more flexible area of the vagina) to collect menstrual blood. Unlike the cup, it usually does not create a vacuum.
Main Differences Between Disc and Cup:
| Attribute | Menstrual cup | Menstrual disc |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum / suction power | Yes, vacuum formation is part of operation. | No, stays in place by form, often behind the pubic bone; No vacuum. |
| Placement | In the vaginal canal, often a little lower. | Behind the pubis, around the cervix. |
| Remove | Vacuum must be broken, sometimes difficult | Usually no vacuum; remove via edge/tab or string; sometimes easier. |
| Comfort / Feel | Often felt when you just use it or when it doesn’t fit properly; pressure can occur. | Many people indicate that you feel the disc less, if properly inserted. |
| Suitable for IUD | Sometimes, but with caution, because vacuum can carry a risk of disturbing wires. | Often recommended as an alternative for those who have an IUD, as no vacuum is used. |
| Emptying / Switching | Usually 8-12 hours each, depending on flow. | Also up to ~12 hours, sometimes “autodumping” possible (empty disc without taking it out) when going to the toilet. |
| Sexual contact possible | Usually not with a cup in. The cup is in the channel; Penetration can be troublesome/uncomfortable. | Some discs allow penetration with disc in. |
Advantages of a disc:
- No vacuum → less chance of discomfort or pulling.
- Often little or no feeling that the product is “there” when it is properly placed.
- Lots of capacity, you don’t have to empty as often.
- Suitable during sex and with IUD in some cases.
- Less chance of certain forms of leakage or pressure if your anatomy is difficult for a cup.
Disadvantages of a disc:
- Can be tricky at first to find the right size and positioning.
- Sometimes the edge or tab feels near the disc; Sometimes pressure on bladder or lower back if it is not seated properly.
- Emptying can cause more “splashing”, because the contents are not in a cup, but in a disc behind the cervix.
- Disc is less known, so less choice in models and fewer physical sales places.
Which one suits your situation?
Below are some questions you can ask yourself to decide:
- How heavy is your period? If you have a heavy flow, the capacity of the disc can be useful (emptying less often), but a large cup can also suffice.
- Have you tried cups before and had to worry about vacuum, leaks, pressure or size? Maybe a disc is the next step.
- Do you use an IUD? Then a disc can be a safer choice because of the lack of vacuum.
- Don’t you mind getting to know your own body well, practicing insertion and removal?
- How important is comfort, convenience, and hygiene to you?
Both the menstrual cup and the menstrual disc are great alternatives to tampons and pads, especially within a more sustainable and low-tox lifestyle. Which product suits you best depends on your flow, anatomy, comfort, and how you feel when inserted/removed.
Not sure what suits you best? Start slowly with a cup, and if that doesn’t quite work, a disc is a nice alternative. Don’t forget: the right equipment and good hygiene really make the difference
Do you want to learn more about a conscious, sustainable and low-tox lifestyle?
Sign up for our newsletter and receive weekly practical tips, inspiration and updates about natural care, sustainable products, a low-tox life and more. This way you can easily stay informed and make more conscious choices step by step.
