The menstrual disc is a modern alternative to traditional period products, offering up to twelve hours of wear time and providing a comfortable option for managing menstrual flow. This product is distinct from a menstrual cup, sitting higher in the vaginal fornix and held in place by the pubic bone rather than by suction. The availability of discs varies significantly based on whether a consumer is seeking a single-use or a long-term reusable option. This guide focuses on the practical logistics of locating and acquiring a menstrual disc through various commercial avenues.
Understanding Disc Types: Reusable vs. Disposable
The purchasing journey involves understanding the two main categories of menstrual discs: disposable and reusable. Disposable discs are typically made from a thin polymer film with a firm plastic rim, designed for single use and immediate disposal. Brands like Softdisc and the original Flex Disc fall into this category, prioritizing convenience for travel or on-the-go changes. While convenient, the monthly repurchase of disposable discs means they are more expensive over time and contribute more to environmental waste.
Reusable discs are constructed from durable, medical-grade silicone and are designed to be cleaned and reinserted for years of use. These products, offered by brands such as Saalt, Nixit, and Hello Disc, are a cost-effective and sustainable choice, often lasting up to ten years with proper care. Reusable discs often have a softer, more pliable rim that molds to the body, unlike the more rigid plastic rim of disposable options.
Purchasing Through Brick-and-Mortar Retailers
Physical retail locations offer the benefit of immediate purchase and are often the first place consumers look for period products. Pharmacies and drugstores are reliable sources for finding menstrual discs, particularly the disposable varieties. Stores like Walgreens often stock both single-use options and sometimes a limited selection of reusable discs from major brands. Checking the feminine hygiene aisle, usually located near tampons and pads, is the most likely way to locate these items.
Mass-market retailers and big-box stores, such as Walmart and Target, also carry menstrual discs, primarily featuring the more widely recognized disposable options. These larger stores benefit from high-volume purchasing and prominent shelf space, making the single-use discs highly accessible. Due to shelf space constraints, the range of reusable disc sizes and brands is usually limited in physical stores. If a specific reusable disc is sought, checking the store’s website for local inventory before visiting can save time.
Utilizing Online Marketplaces and Direct-to-Consumer Options
Online shopping provides the broadest and most varied selection of menstrual discs, encompassing both disposable and reusable options. Large online marketplaces, like Amazon or Walmart.com, stock numerous disc brands, offering convenience, rapid shipping, and a wealth of user reviews. These platforms are a good starting point for comparing different products and often feature both single-use and reusable discs from multiple manufacturers. Buyers benefit from the ability to compare prices and delivery speeds in one place.
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC)
The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model is a second significant online avenue, where customers purchase directly from the brand’s website. Many specialized reusable disc brands, including smaller or newer companies, exclusively utilize this channel. Buying directly from a brand like Saalt or Hello Period ensures access to their entire product line, including different sizes and specialized accessories. Furthermore, purchasing from a brand’s website often connects the buyer to dedicated customer support and educational resources.
Specialized Retailers
Some specialized online retailers, like Period Nirvana, curate collections of menstrual products and serve as a vetted source for multiple reusable brands. These platforms offer an alternative to major marketplaces, often supporting educational content and providing expert guidance for those new to reusable period care.
Essential Buying Considerations Before Checkout
Finding the correct fit is a primary consideration before finalizing a menstrual disc purchase, particularly for reusable models. Unlike menstrual cups, disc sizing relates primarily to the individual’s cervix height. Since cervix height can fluctuate, measuring while on the period is recommended for the most accurate result.
While many disposable and some reusable discs adhere to a “one size fits most” model, other reusable brands offer multiple sizes to accommodate lower or higher cervixes. Selecting a disc that is too large can lead to discomfort or cramping, while one that is too small may not securely tuck behind the pubic bone, potentially causing leaks. Consumers should consult sizing guides provided by the manufacturer, which often use cervix height measurements to suggest the appropriate disc diameter.
Cost and Return Policies
The cost comparison between disc types is another factor to weigh. Although the initial cost of a reusable disc, typically between $30 and $40, is higher than a box of disposables, the long-term savings are substantial because the product can last for years. Disposable discs, while inexpensive initially, require monthly repurchasing, which makes them far more costly over the product’s lifespan.
Customers should also examine return policies. Hygiene products purchased in-store are often non-returnable once opened. However, many reusable disc brands that sell directly online offer a satisfaction guarantee or trial period, allowing for a return or exchange if the disc does not fit correctly.