Menstrual Discs vs Cups: Which is Right for You? Pros, Cons, Fit, Cost Comparison

Key Takeaways:

• Suction vs Comfort: Menstrual cups rely on mild suction to create a seal within the vaginal canal, offering a secure fit ideal for active lifestyles, whereas menstrual discs rest higher and provide comfort without using suction.

• Capacity & Convenience: Menstrual discs offer a higher capacity and the possibility of mess-free period sex, making them a versatile option, while menstrual cups are praised for their long wear time and budget-friendly nature.

• Fit & Function: Both menstrual cups and discs offer sustainable, reusable period care, but they differ in fit, insertion, and removal techniques, which can influence comfort and user experience.

Whether you’re a veteran period pro or new to exploring reusable options, the world of period care has never offered more choices—or more questions. Menstrual discs and cups both promise freedom from the cycle of disposable period products. But how do you decide between them? If you’re looking for a sustainable, budget-friendly alternative, weighing the pros and cons can feel overwhelming.

At Saalt, we’re passionate about helping you find the menstrual care solution that fits your unique lifestyle. That means busting myths, getting real about comfort and fit, and talking about cost—not to mention sustainability and impact. Our guide to menstrual discs vs cups breaks down everything you need to know, so you can spend less time worrying about leaks and more time living your life with confidence and comfort. Ready to discover your perfect fit? Let’s dive in.

Menstrual Cups at a Glance

Menstrual cups are a popular, eco-friendly alternative to tampons and pads. Made from medical-grade silicone or rubber, these bell-shaped cups are folded and inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. Once inside, they open to form a leak-resistant seal and can be worn for up to 12 hours. Cups are then removed, emptied, rinsed, and reinserted as needed. (National Library of Medicine)

Pros:

·         Cost-effective: One cup can last years, saving hundreds of dollars over time.

·         Eco-friendly: Greatly reduces period product waste.

·         Long wear: Suitable for overnight or active lifestyles.

·         No dryness: Cups collect rather than absorb, helping prevent irritation.

Cons:

·         Learning curve: Insertion and removal takes practice.

·         Sizing needed: Finding the right fit can require trial and error.

·         Public use: Emptying and cleaning in public restrooms can be tricky.

·         Not for all: Some with pelvic floor issues may not find cups comfortable.

Fit & Comfort: Menstrual cups come in various sizes; the right fit should feel unnoticeable and prevent leaks.

Cost: Most reputable brands cost $20–$40, and with proper care, a cup can last up to 10 years, making it a smart long-term choice.

Menstrual Discs at a Glance

Menstrual discs are a lesser-known but fast-growing period care option. Unlike tampons or cups, they rest high at the base of your cervix and collect flow rather than absorb it. Soft and flexible, discs are designed to adapt to your unique anatomy for a comfortable, barely-there feel. Once pinched and inserted, a disc settles in the vaginal fornix, offering up to 12 hours of leakproof, reliable protection. (Healthline)

Why try a disc?

·         High capacity: Discs generally hold more than cups, making them ideal for heavy or postpartum flows.

·         Mess-free period sex: Their high position allows many users to have mess-free period sex during their period (follow product guidelines).

·         No suction: Easier for some to insert or remove, especially those with a low cervix.

Considerations:

·         Practice needed: Insertion and removal take practice and can be messy at first.

·         Single-use or reusable: Some discs are disposable, but most are reusable menstrual discs, being eco-friendly and cost-saving by being reusable.

·         Not for all: Those with certain pelvic or vaginal conditions may notice discomfort or slippage.

In summary, menstrual discs offer high capacity, comfort, and freedom for those seeking an adaptable solution with less maintenance—and, for many, some added intimacy during their cycle.

How Do Cups and Discs Collect Flow Differently?

Menstrual cups and period discs are both reusable and made from body-safe silicone, but they collect period flow in distinct ways.

Menstrual cups create a gentle seal in the vaginal canal below the cervix. Once inserted, they open up and form a suction that allows them to collect blood directly as it leaves the cervix. Cups typically stay in place by hugging the vaginal walls, and are emptied after 8–12 hours, depending on flow. Their upright position and secure seal make them a popular choice for active lifestyles.

Menstrual discs sit higher within the vaginal fornix, resting against the cervix and tucking behind the pubic bone. Unlike period cups, discs don’t create a suction seal. Instead, they collect menstrual flow in a shallow, flexible reservoir. Discs often offer a higher capacity and can even be worn mess-free during penetrative sex because they sit so far back and don’t rely on suction.

Simply put: Cups “hug” the vaginal walls below the cervix and use mild suction to collect blood vertically. Discs “cradle” the cervix in a horizontal position and collect blood more passively in a basin. This key difference affects comfort, capacity, insertion and removal, and whether intercourse is possible while wearing the product.

Comfort and Everyday Wear

When comparing “menstrual discs vs cups,” comfort is often the deciding factor. Every body is different, so your ideal option depends on what feels best for you.

Menstrual Discs: Barely-There Comfort

Discs sit higher up in the vaginal fornix, closer to the cervix, which can make them less noticeable and more comfortable for many users. Because they don’t create suction, they can reduce pressure or cramping and flex with your body. Discs also have a larger capacity and are great for long days or physical activity—some even find them unnoticeable during sex.

Menstrual Cups: Secure and Reliable

Cups rest below the cervix in the vaginal canal and form a gentle suction seal. Many find this reassuring for preventing leaks during daily activities or overnight. Period cups come in different firmnesses and sizes, and while you might notice them initially, most users adjust and find them comfortable. A secure fit makes them dependable for exercise and daily routines. The elongated bulb of a menstrual cup usually makes retrieval more manageable, especially for those new to menstrual cups or discs. 

Everyday Realities

Both reusable options reduce irritation compared to disposables and eliminate bulk and chafing. Ultimately, finding the right product may take some trial and error with sizing and placement. Once you do, both menstrual discs and cups can offer comfort, convenience, and confidence throughout your daily life.

Insertion Tips: Cup vs Disc

Mastering insertion is key for comfort and leak protection.

Menstrual Cups: Fold your cup (C-fold, punch-down, or 7-fold are popular options) and relax your pelvic muscles. In your preferred position (sitting, squatting, or one leg up), gently insert the folded cup toward your tailbone. Once inside, let it pop open and give the base a gentle twist—this creates a seal for leak-free wear. Learn: how to insert a menstrual cup. 

Menstrual Discs: Pinch your disc in half to create a narrow shape. Slide it in horizontally, and push it back until the rim clears your pubic bone. Then tuck the front rim up behind the bone to lock it in place—no need to form a seal like with cups. Learn: how to insert a menstrual disc. 

Pro tips for both:

• Wash hands before and after using your cup or disc.

• Add a little water-based lubricant to the rim if insertion feels dry.

• Go slow, take deep breaths, and relax your muscles for easier insertion. Pro-tip: Practice in the shower, where cleanup is easy, and plenty of water provides extra lubrication. 

• If uncomfortable, remove and try a different fold or angle.

It might take a few cycles to get completely comfortable with insertion, so don’t get discouraged. Keep experimenting to find what works best—soon, inserting your cup or menstrual disc will feel easy and routine.

Removal Made Easy

When comparing menstrual discs vs cups, the removal process is a top concern. Here’s what you need to know.

Menstrual Cups: Cups sit lower in the vaginal canal and usually feature a stem or grip at the base. To remove, gently pinch the base to break the seal—never pull straight down, as that can be uncomfortable. Once the seal’s released, wiggle the cup out slowly. Some cups have ridges or a flexible stem for easier grip. The biggest challenge is learning to release the suction gently, not yanking it out. (Columbia Doctors Org)

Menstrual Discs: Discs sit higher up and rest behind the pubic bone. Removal is about technique: hook your finger under the front rim and gently slide it out. Squatting or propping up your leg can help. Discs generally don’t use suction, so some find removal easier or more comfortable—especially those with a sensitive cervix or who dislike suction.

Mess Factor: Both cups and discs can be messy when you’re first learning. Cups keep fluid contained but can slosh if the seal is broken quickly. Discs may “auto-dump” a bit when you bear down on the toilet, which some users appreciate.

Trying both products can reveal which removal style suits you best. With a bit of practice, you’ll become confident at whichever method you choose—and enjoy a simpler period experience.

Make the Switch: Choosing the Right Sustainable Fit For You

Navigating the world of menstrual discs vs cups can feel overwhelming, but knowing your body and your lifestyle is the key to making the right choice. Discs offer unrivaled comfort for mess-free intimacy and work well for those with a high cervix or heavier flows, while cups are beloved for their secure fit and all-day protection—ideal for active days chasing the kids, hitting the gym, or just living your best life.

No matter which option you choose, you’re investing in a reusable, sustainable product that saves you money over time and helps reduce waste. Both discs and cups pair perfectly with Saalt’s Premium Leakproof Period Underwear for added peace of mind, supporting you through every stage of womanhood—from postpartum healing to post-lunch Pilates to navigating those surprise leaks.

At Saalt, we believe nobody should have to face emergency bathroom runs or compromise their comfort. Our mission is to provide premium, planet-friendly solutions that give you freedom, confidence, and one less thing to worry about each month. When you choose Saalt, you’re joining a movement for less fuss, less waste, and period equity for all.

 Read Also:

• Menstrual Disc vs Menstrual Cup

• Menstrual Cups & Discs: An Alternative To Tampons & Pads

• Comfort and Convenience: Why Menstrual Cups and Discs Are Changing the Game

Frequently Asked Questions About Menstrual Discs vs Cups

How do menstrual discs and cups differ in design?

Menstrual discs and cups are both internal period products—but their shapes and how they sit in your body are pretty different. A menstrual cup is bell-shaped with a short stem, designed to sit lower in the vaginal canal and create a gentle suction to prevent leaks. A menstrual disc, on the other hand, looks more like a flexible, flat disc with a rim. It sits higher up, tucked behind the pubic bone, and collects flow without suction. Both are reusable, sustainable, and can be paired with Saalt Leakproof Underwear for extra protection.

Which is easier to insert: a disc or a cup?

It depends on your body and what feels comfortable to you! Menstrual cups are inserted folded and then pop open to form a seal. They take a bit of practice, but many people get the hang of it quickly. Discs are pinched in the middle (like a taco), then slid into place and tucked behind the pubic bone. Some first-timers find discs a little easier to insert since they don’t require popping open or forming suction. If you’re new to reusable options, try both and see which clicks (literally and figuratively).

Are discs or cups more comfortable to wear?

Comfort is pretty personal! Some people love the secure, “can’t-feel-it” fit of a cup, while others prefer the low-profile feel of a disc, especially for activities like sports or intimacy (since discs can be worn during penetrative sex). If you have a sensitive bladder or find suction uncomfortable, a disc might be your best friend. Cups sometimes offer a more reassuring fit for those prone to leaks or who are constantly on the go. Either way, backup from Saalt Leakproof Underwear means no second-guessing.

How long can you wear a menstrual disc versus a cup?

Both menstrual discs and cups are designed to be worn for up to 12 hours at a time, which means fewer bathroom breaks and more freedom through your busy day (or night!). That said, your flow and comfort level may mean you want to empty them more often. Always wash your hands before removing or inserting, and don’t forget: what works on your light days might be different than your heavy ones!

How does the capacity of a disc compare to a cup?

Menstrual discs generally hold more fluid than cups—sometimes up to five tampons’ worth (about 50ml), compared to cups which range from 15ml to 30ml depending on the size and brand. If you have a heavy flow, a disc might be a game-changer. But plenty of people find a large-capacity cup does the trick. For peace of mind (and extra leak protection), pair either one with Saalt’s Leakproof Underwear, available in a range of absorbencies, to support you no matter what your cycle throws at you.

Sources:

1. Van Eijk, A. M., Zulaika, G., Lenchner, M., Mason, L., Sivakami, M., Nyothach, E., Unger, H., Laserson, K., & Phillips-Howard, P. A. (2019b). Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Public Health, 4(8), e376–e393. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2468-2667(19)30111-2

2. Santos-Longhurst, A. (2020, February 10). Are menstrual discs the period product we’ve been waiting for? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/menstrual-disc#discs-vs-cups

3. Menstrual Cups. (n.d.). https://www.columbiadoctors.org/health-library/article/menstrual-cups/