Menstrual cups and menstrual discs are two popular reusable alternatives to tampons and sanitary pads. But what is the difference between a menstrual cup and a menstrual disc, and how do you know which one is right for you?
Both products are designed to collect menstrual blood rather than absorb it. They can be worn for several hours, reused throughout your period and, with proper care, used repeatedly for months or years.
However, their shape, position inside the vagina and how they are inserted and removed are different.
In this guide, we'll explain the difference between menstrual cups and menstrual discs, including comfort, capacity, wear time, sex, sustainability and how to choose between them.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup usually made from medical-grade silicone. It is folded and inserted into the vagina, where it opens and sits in the vaginal canal.
Rather than absorbing menstrual blood like a tampon, the cup collects your menstrual flow.
Most menstrual cups create a gentle seal against the vaginal walls to help prevent leaks. Many have a small stem at the bottom, which can help you locate and remove the cup.
Depending on the product and your individual flow, a menstrual cup can generally be worn for several hours at a time, with some products suitable for up to 8–12 hours. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
With appropriate cleaning and care, a reusable menstrual cup can last for several years, making it a cost-effective alternative to disposable period products.
What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc is another reusable period product that collects menstrual blood rather than absorbing it.
Unlike a menstrual cup, a disc is flatter and wider and sits higher in the vaginal canal, underneath the cervix. Its flexible rim rests behind the pubic bone, helping to keep it in position.
Menstrual discs are generally made from flexible, body-safe materials such as medical-grade silicone.
Unlike most menstrual cups, menstrual discs do not have a stem. They are inserted by pinching the disc and positioning it inside the vagina.
Like cups, reusable menstrual discs can be emptied, cleaned and reused. Disposable menstrual discs are also available, so check the packaging carefully when choosing a product.
Menstrual cup vs menstrual disc: what's the difference?
The biggest difference between a menstrual cup and a disc is where and how they sit inside the vagina.
| Feature | Menstrual Cup | Menstrual Disc |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Cup-shaped | Flat, round disc |
| Position | Lower in the vaginal canal | Higher, near the cervix |
| How it stays in place | Gentle seal against vaginal walls | Rests behind the pubic bone |
| Stem | Usually has a stem | No stem |
| How it is inserted | Folded before insertion | Pinched/folded before insertion |
| How it is removed | Usually by gripping the base | Usually by hooking a finger under the rim |
| Wear time | Varies by product; often up to 8–12 hours | Varies by product; often up to 12 hours |
| Reusable options | Yes | Yes |
| Sex during use | Remove before penetrative sex | Some discs are designed for use during penetrative sex |
Which is more comfortable: a cup or a disc?
There is no universal answer to which is more comfortable, a menstrual cup or a menstrual disc.
Every body is different, and your anatomy, cervix height, menstrual flow and personal preferences can affect which product feels best.
Some people prefer a menstrual cup because they like its shape and find it relatively easy to position and remove. Others prefer a menstrual disc because it sits higher in the vaginal canal and doesn't have a stem.
If you can constantly feel your cup or disc once it has been inserted, it may be worth checking its position or trying a different size or style.
It can take a little practice to become confident with either product. Don't be discouraged if the first product you try isn't the perfect fit.
Which holds more: a menstrual cup or disc?
Both menstrual cups and discs can offer good protection, including for people with heavier periods.
However, capacity varies between individual products, so it isn't accurate to say that menstrual cups always hold more than discs, or vice versa.
If you have a heavy flow, look for a product with a higher stated capacity and pay attention to how frequently you need to empty it.
If you experience very heavy periods or regularly soak through your period product in a short period of time, it's also worth discussing this with a healthcare professional.
Can you have sex with a menstrual cup or disc?
One of the key differences between menstrual cups and discs is their suitability for sex.
A menstrual cup should be removed before penetrative vaginal sex.
Some menstrual discs, however, are specifically designed to be worn during penetrative vaginal sex because they sit higher in the vaginal canal. This doesn't apply to every menstrual disc, so always check the manufacturer's instructions.
Neither menstrual cups nor menstrual discs are contraceptives.
Are menstrual cups and discs better for the environment?
For many people, one of the biggest attractions of reusable period products is the potential to reduce menstrual waste.
Disposable pads and tampons need to be replaced throughout every period. A reusable menstrual cup or disc can be washed and used repeatedly, potentially reducing the number of disposable products you purchase and throw away.
Reusable products can also save money over time, although the initial purchase price is higher than buying a single pack of disposable products.
For an even more sustainable period routine, some people combine reusable products such as a menstrual cup or disc with reusable period underwear.
Menstrual cup or menstrual disc: which should you choose?
Ultimately, choosing between a menstrual cup and a menstrual disc comes down to personal preference.
A menstrual cup may suit you if:
● You prefer a traditional cup-shaped product.
● You are comfortable with a product that sits lower in the vaginal canal.
● You don't mind a stem.
● You want a reusable option that can last for several years with proper care.
● You are happy to remove it before penetrative sex.
A menstrual disc may suit you if:
● You prefer a product that sits higher in the vagina.
● You don't want a stem.
● You would like the option of wearing your menstrual product during penetrative sex, where the specific disc is designed for this.
● You prefer the shape and design of a disc.
● You want a reusable alternative to disposable period products.
Is a menstrual cup or menstrual disc better?
Neither is automatically better.
The best menstrual product is the one that works comfortably for your body, your period and your lifestyle.
You may need to try different products before finding your favourite, and that's completely normal. Some people also use different products at different times — for example, a menstrual cup or disc during the day and period underwear overnight.
At SANAVAY, we believe there shouldn't be a one-size-fits-all approach to period care. That's why we offer a range of reusable, sustainable menstrual products, helping you find the combination that works for you.
Whether you choose a menstrual cup, menstrual disc, reusable period underwear or another reusable option, making the switch can be a simple step towards a more comfortable, sustainable period.
Ready to explore reusable period care?
Discover the SANAVAY collection of reusable menstrual products and find a period care option that's right for you.
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