Pelvic Health – Menstrual Cup Vs. Menstrual Disc

June 13, 2024 / Pelvic Health
Pelvic Health – Menstrual Cup Vs. Menstrual Disc

Pelvic Health – Menstrual cups and menstrual discs are reusable feminine hygiene products designed to collect menstrual fluid.

Mississauga Pelvic Health

What is a Menstrual Cup?

Menstrual cups are generally crafted from silicone or rubber.

Unlike tampons, which absorb blood, these cups collect it, reducing the risk of infection.

One advantage of the menstrual cup is its larger capacity compared to a tampon’s absorbency, allowing for less frequent changes. Most cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow.

What is a Menstrual Disc?

Unlike menstrual cups, menstrual discs sit higher in the vaginal canal, tucked behind the pubic bone. Here are some key features and benefits of menstrual discs:

  • Design and Use:
    • Shape: Menstrual discs are flat and round, resembling a small diaphragm, with a flexible rim and a thin, flexible body.
    • Insertion: The disc is pinched and inserted into the vagina, where it is positioned horizontally and covers the cervix.
    • Capacity: Like menstrual cups, discs can hold a significant amount of fluid and can be worn for up to 12 hours.

What are the benefits of a Menstrual Cup?

Benefits:

  • Cost-Effective: While the initial purchase price may be higher than disposable products, menstrual cups can be reused for several years, saving money over time.
  • Eco-Friendly: Reusable nature reduces waste compared to disposable tampons and pads.
  • Health: Made from medical-grade materials that are safe and reduce the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) associated with tampons.

What are the benefits of a Menstrual Disc?

Benefits:

  • Comfort: Positioned differently than cups, discs can be more comfortable for some users, especially during physical activities or sex.
  • Mess-Free Intercourse: Many menstrual discs can be worn during intercourse without obstructing the vaginal canal, offering a mess-free experience.
  • Eco-Friendly: Reusable menstrual discs reduce waste compared to disposable products. However, there are also single-use disposable options available.

Using a Menstrual Cup Vs. a Menstrual Disc

Using a menstrual cup involves a few steps to ensure proper insertion, positioning, and removal. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use a menstrual cup:Insertion

  • Wash Your Hands:

  • Start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water to maintain hygiene.
  • Fold the Cup:
  • There are several folding techniques, but the most common are the “C-fold” and “Punch-down fold”.
    • C-fold: Press the sides of the cup together and then fold it in half to form a “C” shape.Punch-down fold: Push the rim of the cup down into the base, creating a narrower point for insertion.
  • Insert the Cup:
  • Find a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet, standing with one leg raised, or squatting.Gently separate the labia with one hand and use the other hand to insert the folded cup into the vagina.Guide the cup upwards and back towards the base of your spine. The cup should sit low in the vaginal canal.
  • Let the Cup Open:
  • Once the cup is inside, it will pop open. You may need to rotate it or push it slightly to ensure it fully opens and creates a seal against the vaginal walls.
  • Check the Seal:
  • Run a finger around the base of the cup (not the stem) to check that it has fully opened and there are no folds. This ensures a proper seal and prevents leaks.
  • Wearing
  • Duration:

  • Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. However, you may need to empty it more frequently on heavier days.
  • Activities:
  • Menstrual cups can be worn during various activities, including exercise, swimming, and sleeping.
  • Removal
  • Wash Your Hands:

  • Before removing the cup, wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Locate the Cup:
  • Find a comfortable position. Sitting on the toilet or squatting can make removal easier.Use your pelvic muscles to push the cup lower in the vaginal canal if needed.
  • Break the Seal:
  • Pinch the base of the cup (not the stem) to break the seal. You may also gently push a finger alongside the cup to release the suction.
  • Remove the Cup:
  • Once the seal is broken, slowly pull the cup out while keeping it upright to avoid spills.
  • Empty and Clean:
  • Empty the collected menstrual fluid into the toilet.Rinse the cup with water and mild soap before reinserting. If you’re in a public restroom, you can wipe the cup with toilet paper or a menstrual cup wipe and rinse it later.
  • Maintenance
  • Sterilization:

  • At the end of each menstrual cycle, sterilize your menstrual cup by boiling it in water for 5-10 minutes. Make sure the cup does not touch the bottom of the pot.
  • Storage:
  • Store the cup in a clean, breathable pouch when not in use. Avoid storing it in an airtight container.
  • Using a menstrual disc involves a few steps to ensure proper insertion, positioning, and removal. Here is a detailed guide on how to use a menstrual disc:Insertion

  • Wash Your Hands:

  • Start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water to maintain hygiene.
  • Fold the Disc:
  • Pinch the sides of the menstrual disc together to form a narrow, elongated shape. This makes insertion easier.
  • Insert the Disc:
  • Find a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet, standing with one leg raised, or squatting.Use one hand to gently separate the labia and use the other hand to guide the folded disc into the vaginal opening.Push the disc back and downwards towards the base of your spine. Aim to position it as far back as possible so it sits at an angle under the cervix.
  • Position the Disc:
  • Once inserted, use your finger to tuck the front rim of the disc up behind the pubic bone. This will secure the disc in place and create a seal to collect menstrual fluid.
  • Wearing
  • Duration:

  • Menstrual discs can typically be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Activities:
  • Menstrual discs can be worn during various activities, including exercise and swimming. They can also be worn during intercourse for a mess-free experience.
  • Removal
  • Wash Your Hands:

  • Before removing the disc, wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Locate the Disc:
  • Sit on the toilet or find a comfortable position. Insert your finger into the vagina and locate the front rim of the disc, which is behind the pubic bone.
  • Remove the Disc:
  • Hook your finger under the rim and gently pull the disc out, keeping it horizontal to avoid spilling the contents.It may help to bear down with your pelvic muscles to push the disc lower in the vaginal canal for easier reach.
  • Empty and Clean:
  • Empty the collected menstrual fluid into the toilet.Rinse the disc with water and mild soap. If it is a reusable disc, it should be sterilized between cycles by boiling it in water for a few minutes.
  • Maintenance
  • Sterilization:

  • At the end of each menstrual cycle, boil your reusable menstrual disc in water for a few minutes to sterilize it.
  • Storage:
  • Store the disc in a clean, breathable pouch when not in use.
  • Menstrual discs and cups are both effective options for period management. Choose the one that suits you best based on factors like comfort, lifestyle, and size preference. Ultimately, neither a disc nor a cup might be the right choice for you, but they are both excellent alternatives to tampons for those seeking different options.

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    We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.

    Choosing between a menstrual cup and a menstrual disc can depend on individual comfort and pelvic health needs. For expert advice on pelvic health and guidance on using these products, consider physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, or Liberty Village. Experienced physiotherapists in these locations can provide personalized care and support for all your pelvic health concerns.