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

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:
- 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.
Duration:
Wash Your Hands:
Sterilization:
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:
Duration:
Wash Your Hands:
Sterilization:
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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Physiotherapy Etobicoke | Physiotherapy Oakville | Physiotherapy North York | Physiotherapy Toronto | Physiotherapy Lawrence Park | Physiotherapy Mississauga | Physiotherapy Queens Quay | Physiotherapy Mississauga Erin Mills | Physiotherapy Liberty Village
Where can I find a pelvic health physiotherapist in Mississauga?
We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
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.