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Period cups and discs are becoming popular as eco-friendly, sustainable alternatives to pads and tampons. But if you’re thinking about making the switch, you may wonder: do they hurt? Learn: Menstrual Disc vs Menstrual Cup What Are Period Cups and Discs? Menstrual cups are small, flexible bell-shaped devices made of medical-grade silicone. They sit inside the vagina to collect menstrual fluid, staying in place with gentle suction. You can wear them for up to 12 hours before needing to empty, clean, and reinsert. Menstrual discs are similar but sit higher in the vaginal canal, encircling the cervix. They don’t rely on suction and provide a snug fit by resting behind the pubic bone. Learn: Is a disposable menstrual disc or reusable disc better for me? Do They Hurt? Most of the time, no—they shouldn’t cause pain if inserted properly. It may take some trial and error to get the placement right, but discomfort isn’t normal. If you feel pressure or cramping, it likely means the product ne...

Both menstrual cups and menstrual discs collect period flow for up to 12 hours. Cups, like the Saalt Cup, are always reusable, while discs, like the Saalt Disc, come in both reusable and disposable options. Placement & Fit Menstrual cups create a light suction seal and sit in the vaginal canal, similar to a tampon. Discs rest higher in the vaginal fornix, secured behind the pubic bone without suction. Discs can also be worn during penetrative period sex for a mess-free experience. Capacity & Materials Cups hold 2-4 tampons worth of fluid, while discs can hold 3-6 tampons worth. Both are made from medical-grade silicone and, when properly cared for, last up to 10 years. Insertion & Removal Cups are folded before insertion, while discs are pinched into a figure-8 shape. Both should be inserted toward the tailbone. To remove, cups require breaking the suction seal, while discs are pulled from behind the pubic bone. Care & Cleaning Reusable cups and discs should be rins...

If you’ve heard the term autodumping (or self-emptying) when talking about menstrual discs , you might be wondering what it means. Simply put, self-emptying happens when a menstrual disc partially empties itself while using the bathroom. Unlike menstrual cups , discs sit in the vaginal fornix without suction, allowing them to shift slightly when you relax your muscles to use the restroom. This movement can release some fluid into the toilet, a natural and often helpful feature that can extend wear time without needing to remove the disc. Not everyone experiences auto-dumping. Factors like pelvic floor strength, disc design, and disc sizing can affect whether it happens. Some discs stay firmly in place, while others shift more easily. Is it normal? Absolutely! Autodumping doesn’t mean your disc is leaking, it’s just adjusting with your body’s movements. Many users appreciate it as a way to avoid overflow on heavier days. As long as your disc only self-empties when using the restroom,...

Menstrual cups and menstrual discs can last anywhere from 1 to 10 years, depending on the brand, material, and how well you care for them. But how do you know when it’s time to replace yours? Signs It’s Time for a Replacement Cracks or Stickiness : If the material of your period cup or menstrual disc feels tacky, splits, or cracks appear, it’s time for a replacement. Persistent Odor : A lingering smell even after cleaning may indicate bacterial buildup. Severe Staining : Some discoloration is normal, but excessive staining can signal material degradation. Loss of Flexibility : If your cup or disc feels too stiff or too soft, it may not seal properly, leading to leaks. How to Extend Its Life Wash with mild, oil-free, unscented soap. Store in a breathable pouch, not an airtight container. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, vinegar, and detergents. With proper care, your menstrual cup or disc can be a reliable, long-term period solution. Pay attention to signs of wear to ensure it re...

Every year, over 12 billion pads and 7 billion tampons are discarded in the U.S., creating a massive environmental challenge. Made with non-biodegradable materials like plastic, these products can take 500-800 years to break down, making them a significant contributor to landfill waste. Luckily, sustainable options like menstrual cups , menstrual discs , and period underwear are changing the game. These reusable products not only reduce waste but can also save you money. A period cup replaces up to 4 tampons or 3 pads a day. A menstrual disc holds as much as 6 tampons or 4 pads. Both cups and discs last up to 10 years and can be worn for 12 hours. Leakproof panties can absorb as much as 8 tampons or 6 pads and are washable for years of use. By switching to these eco-friendly alternatives, you can help divert billions of disposables from landfills and save some serious cash. Small changes add up. Choosing sustainable period products is a simple way to make a big impact for the planet,...

Welcome to the sustainable, comfortable period club! If you're new to using a menstrual cup or menstrual disc , it's important to sanitize your product before and after each cycle. Here’s how to do it easily: Understanding Sanitizing vs. Sterilizing Sanitizing : Reduces germs to safe levels, ideal for home cleaning. Sterilizing : Eliminates all microbial life, usually done in medical settings, often with an autoclave.  Sanitization Methods Boiling Water (Classic Method) Supplies : Pot, water, tongs or whisk.  Steps : Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully position your secured cup or disc (within tongs or whisk) and boil for 4–5 minutes.  Remove and let cool before storing or wearing.  Compact Sanitizer (Travel-Friendly Method) Supplies :Compact Sanitizer, microwave. Steps : Open the sanitizer, fill with water, and add your cup/disc. Microwave for about 3 minutes until boiling. Let sit for another 3 minutes, then cool and store. Saalt Steam...