Menstrual cups and menstrual discs are reusable, internal period products that collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. Both offer an alternative to traditional products, providing up to 12 hours of wear time and contributing to less waste. The choice between a cup and a disc depends entirely on individual anatomy, comfort preferences, and specific lifestyle requirements. Understanding the fundamental differences in their design and function is the first step in determining which device will best suit one’s body and needs.
Structural Design and Material Differences
The primary difference between the two products lies in their shape and how they stay securely positioned inside the body. A menstrual cup is typically a bell-shaped or V-shaped device with a firm rim and a small stem or pull-tab at the base. Cups are designed to sit lower in the vaginal canal, creating a seal against the vaginal walls that relies on suction to prevent leaks and hold the device in place. This suction mechanism requires the cup material, often medical-grade silicone, to be structured and firm to maintain the seal’s integrity.
In contrast, the menstrual disc has a wide, flat, and shallow shape, resembling a diaphragm with a collection basin in the center. Discs do not use suction to remain in position. Instead, they sit high up in the vaginal fornix, the widest part of the vaginal canal, just below the cervix. The disc’s flexible rim is tucked behind the pubic bone, which acts as the anchor to keep the device stable and leak-free. Disc materials are medical-grade silicone or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and are generally thinner and more flexible than cup materials.
Insertion, Removal, and Capacity Comparison
The distinct placement of each device necessitates different insertion and removal techniques. A menstrual cup is inserted using one of several folding methods, such as the punch-down or C-fold, to reduce its diameter before being pushed into the lower vaginal canal. The cup must then fully open to create the necessary suction seal against the walls, sometimes requiring rotation or adjustment to ensure proper placement. Removal involves locating the base of the cup, pinching it to break the suction seal, and then gently pulling it out.
The menstrual disc is inserted by squeezing the flexible rim into a narrow, oblong shape and pushing it deep into the vaginal fornix. After insertion, the disc’s rim is tucked up behind the pubic bone, a placement that may require reaching higher than with a cup. Removal is typically done by hooking a finger under the rim and pulling it straight out. This process can be messier than cup removal due to the disc’s shallow design and high placement.
One unique feature of the disc is “auto-dumping,” where a pelvic floor contraction, such as when using the toilet, can slightly shift the disc and allow some collected fluid to empty. This partial emptying allows many users to extend the time between full manual changes, especially those with a heavier flow. Both cups and discs are designed for up to 12 hours of wear. However, discs often possess a significantly higher capacity, holding between 50 to 70 milliliters of fluid, while most standard cups hold around 30 milliliters.
Compatibility with Specific Anatomical Needs
Cervix anatomy and the presence of other medical devices often determine which product is more suitable. Menstrual cups are available in a variety of sizes and lengths to accommodate different cervix heights. The cup must sit below the cervix without causing pressure or discomfort. For individuals with a low cervix, a shorter cup is required, while a longer cup or one with an adjustable stem is better for a high cervix.
Because the disc is designed to sit in the wide vaginal fornix, it is considered a one-size-fits-most product and is well-suited for all cervix heights. For users with an Intrauterine Device (IUD), discs are often the preferred option because they do not rely on a suction seal to stay in place. The suction created by a menstrual cup, particularly if the seal is not fully broken before removal, is sometimes associated with an increased risk of inadvertently dislodging the IUD strings.
The disc’s high placement leaves the vaginal canal unobstructed, making it one of the few internal menstrual products that can be worn during penetrative sexual activity. Menstrual cups sit lower in the canal and must be removed before penetrative sex. This capability is a deciding factor for many individuals considering their period product options.