What Is a Menstrual Disc? Disposable vs Reusable

A menstrual disc that looks exactly what it sounds like. Whether it's reusable or disposable, the best menstrual disc has a well, disc shape. In addition to its shape, these new-age products have a few advantages. Notably, some may be worn during intercourse — in addition to offering secure and long-term protection.

Disclaimer: This article was written for informational purposes only. None of this content constitutes medical advice. Please speak with your gynecologist for medical information.

What Is a Menstrual Disc?

A menstrual disc is a new form of period protection with a unique shape. It's designed to collect blood within the body, rather than absorb it like a tampon. This makes it a much healthier form of period protection: No chemicals to increase absorption, bleach, pesticides, or other icky additives.

Menstrual cups function similarly. However, they have a distinct "cup" shape, whereas a disc has a circular design. And because it doesn't have a cup's teardrop shape, it actually sits at the base of the cervix. This is one of the differences between these two sustainable forms of period protection.

Reusable Menstrual Disc

5 Reasons to Use a Menstrual Disc

Opting for the best menstrual disc over a conventional tampon can be life-changing for a number of reasons. Here are a few examples:

    1. You can wear it during sex. Keep in mind that anyone who does so should empty it immediately prior to sex or risk making a big mess. We are not doctors, however, so choosing to do so is a personal choice.
    2. A menstrual disc collects period flow rather than absorbing it. In other words, it won't negatively affect vaginal pH or cause dryness.
    3. The best menstrual disc is made from medical grade silicone, just like the Casco FlipDisc. This means that it offers the highest level of biocompatibility (i.e. it isn't toxic for your body). By contrast, tampons may contain bleach, BPA, pesticides, and other unwanted chemicals.
    4. It's sustainable because you aren't throwing out 6.5 lb of tampons every year you menstruate. A single-use or disposable menstrual disc, however, is even less sustainable than a tampon, however.
    5. It offers up to 12 hours of protection. Just like a Casco Cup, our menstrual disc offers secure and comfortable protection designed for working out, lounging by the beach, or sleeping in.

How Does It Differ from a Menstrual Cup?

These products are often compared and contrasted. For many, it's a matter of comfort and lifestyle. Here are a few things that menstrual discs and cups have in common:

      1. They can be long-lasting and sustainable. Our soon-to-be-released menstrual disc will last 10+ years, replacing 65 lb of pad and tampon waste.
      2. The user can wear one for up to 12 hours. Though sustainability is amazing, it's also crucial to have long-lasting period protection that don't make you anxious.
      3. If made from medical-grade materials, they won't contain plastics or chemicals -- or affect the vagina's delicate ecosystem.
      4. Depending on the brand you choose, a menstrual disc or cup can be ridiculously comfortable. Seriously, you will not feel the Casco Cup (if it's properly inserted, of course).

Key Differences

      1. You can wear a menstrual disc during sex. Though we believe that periods are a beautiful and natural part of life, some people enjoy the ability to sometimes avoid the mess.
      2. It sits at the vaginal fornix, which is further up than where a cup sits (in the vaginal canal).
      3. The shape is more circular than a teardrop. This is so it fits the vaginal fornix rather than the vaginal canal.
      4. A disc is held there by the pubic bone whereas a cup has a light suction that keeps it secure against the vaginal muscles.

Disposable vs Reusable Menstrual Discs

There are both reusable and disposable products on the market. The up-and-coming Casco Disc will be a reusable menstrual disc because our mission is to reduce period waste while empowering menstruators. For us, that means creating a product that is comfortable and sustainable — and lasts you a long time.

Companies want to keep you coming back for more. We care more about our planet (and your wallet) than our bottom line.

How to Insert a Menstrual Disc

Though similar in concept to a cup, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.

      1. Before inserting a menstrual disc, remember to clean it following its instructions.
      2. Wash hands.
      3. Squat in the shower or above a toilet. This will help line up the vaginal canal.
      4. Pinch the disc in half to create smaller entry point. Keep in mind that though it looks larger when not pinched, the vagina is an incredibly flexible muscle. Additionally, it's not much bigger than a tampon when pinched.
      5. Push it down and back towards the cervix as far as it goes comfortable. This may be as far as the length of your index finger.
      6. Using a finger, tuck the rim behind the pubic bone.
      7. It will rest at a slight diagonal angle inside the body.

How to Remove It

      1. After wearing for up to 12 hours, wash hands.
      2. In a bathroom or shower, squat.
      3. Move one's muscles as if having a bowel movement. This will help push the reusable menstrual disc downwards.
      4. Use a finger to unhook the disc's edge from behind the pubic bone.
      5. Pull it out straight to avoid spillage.
      6. If it is a disposable menstrual disc, throw it out.

Choosing the Best Reusable Menstrual Disc

Choosing the best product for you means taking an interest in the brand including menstrual disc reviews and their manufacturing policies. Casco Cup products 100% of our products in Maine, USA because we believe in following strict American safety and quality rules — and empowering our community. Keep in mind that manufacturing facilities overseas are not held to the same quality and material standards.

Beyond quality, it's important to consider comfort. How have other users' experiences been with a specific product? In addition to comfort, consider sustainability. Is this product going to spend 400 years decomposing after a few hours of use? Some disposable menstrual discs are made from plastic.

Menstruators today are lucky to live in a world with so many options. From reusable menstrual discs to cups, there are comfortable, athlete-friendly ways to manage your period.