A tilted cervix, also called a retroverted cervix or tilted uterus, is when the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that extends to the vaginal canal) tilts backward instead of facing forward toward the vaginal opening. There can be different degrees of the tilt and though this may sound worrisome, it’s actually pretty common. About 25% of those with a uterus have a retrograde tilt (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). Most people who have a tilted cervix don’t experience any problems at all and may not even know they have a tilted uterus until they have a pelvic exam and it’s noticed. However, when it comes to choosing the best reusable period care option, it could be an important factor to consider.
To start, it’s important to note that most people can easily (and safely) use any reusable period care option: reusable menstrual cups, reusable menstrual discs, or reusable leakproof panties. But, since all of our bodies are unique it’s key to find what works best for you and your anatomy. Your comfort & peace of mind matters most! 🥰
Menstrual Discs:
A disc is a great option for most people with a period. It offers an ultra comfy suction-free fit and works by sitting behind the pubic bone to stay in place in the vaginal fornix, which is the open space right under the cervix. Because it sits right under the cervix to catch flow in the basin of the disc as it exits the uterus, it tends to work best for those who have a minor tilt (or no tilt at all) to their cervix. If the tilt of the cervix is a bit more prominent, then it may be difficult to have the disc properly sit in relation to the cervix. Oftentimes though, making minor adjustments to the position or your menstrual disc, or trying different sizes of menstrual discs, can help you get in the correct spot to offer you leak-free protection.Though many find that either a small or regular size disc works well for them, other factors like cervical height can come into play when it comes to choosing the best size disc.
Our top recommendation for trying a disc with a tilted cervix? Try our Saalt Disc Duo! This set of two period discs includes both sizes that we offer: a small disc and regular disc. This gives you the ability to try both out and see what size may work best for you and your cervix. Who doesn’t like options, right?
Learn: How to insert a menstrual disc?
Period Cups:
If you do find that you have a more prominent cervical tilt, then a period cup may be the best option for you. They are the OG for a reason after all! Since menstrual cups sit lower than discs do, in the vaginal canal instead of the fornix, they don’t need to fully cover your cervix in order to work. As long as you have the cup in the correct position with a proper seal, it really doesn’t matter where your cervix points to achieve a leak-free fit. Cervical height can sometimes impact which size cup may work best for you, just like with the disc, so be sure to keep that in mind when considering your size too.
Looking for a great menstrual cup to try if you’re making the switch? Give our iconic original Saalt Cup a go for an easy to use, beginner-friendly, ultra comfortable fit. Not sure of your size or firmness level? Don’t worry, we also offer our cups in a Duo Set and soft cup version as well so you can experience a variety of sizes and firmnesses and see what’s best for you. You may even find that different sizes and firmnesses work best on different days of your cycle too!
Learn: How to insert a menstrual cup?
Leak-proof Period Underwear:
Last, but certainly not least, is our favorite new period care product on the block – period panties! These are a must-have item when starting to use reusable insertable options like cups and discs because they give you that extra protection against leaks. No more running off to the bathroom every 10 minutes to be sure things are still in the right spot during your first period (we’ve all been there when we first tried our first cup or disc, trust us we know 😅). Plus, if you do have a tilted cervix, but maybe you aren’t sure which product is best for you; period underwear help provide a little extra peace of mind so you can confidently explore using cups and discs without fear of ruining your favorite undies or needing to wear the a bulky, itchy, dry maxi pad as back-up.
Learn: How do period panties work?
Worried that using insertable options might be a bit uncomfortable? Though very rare, sometimes those who do have a tilted cervix can find that they are more sensitive to inserted products, like tampons, cups, or discs. It really just depends on where your anatomy sits and how it interacts with these products. But if you find that this may be true for you then leakproof underwear can still give you all the cost-saving, planet-loving benefits that’s as easy and comfortable as slipping on your favorite pair.
Plus, we offer our Saalt Wear Leakproof Panties in a variety of styles, sizes, and absorbencies so you can find the perfect pair for your period. Need full coverage protection for your free flowing heavy days? You’ll love our Comfort Brief in Super Absorbency. Need something to replace a liner for your lighter days? Look no further than our lingerie-inspired Lace & Mesh Collections, perfect under anything and super cute as a matching set with our coordinating bralettes.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23426-retroverted-uterus
