A period disc is a reusable menstrual product designed to sit just below the cervix, tucked behind the pubic bone. Instead of forming a seal in the lower vaginal canal like a cup, a reusable period disc lies flat and conforms to your body’s natural shape for a barely-there feel. At Saalt, our discs don’t rely on suction to stay in place. They are a gentle option for those who have bladder sensitivity, a weak pelvic floor, or a low or high cervix.
How Is A Period Disc Different From A Menstrual Cup?
The Saalt Disc and period cup are both reusable and made from 100% medical-grade silicone, which is biocompatible and free from BPA, latex, odors, and harmful toxins. Our commitment to safer, body-friendly period care is highlighted by our use of BPA-free materials, because Bisphenol A (BPA) may lead to potential health concerns. Both products are also FDA-registered, vegan, and cruelty-free.
The key difference lies in where they sit and how they’re removed. The Saalt Cup forms a gentle seal in the vaginal canal and is removed by pinching the base (not the stem) with your thumb and forefinger. A disc for period, on the other hand, is removed by hooking a finger under the front rim and sliding it out. It rests higher in the body, tucked behind the pubic bone. Because of this unique positioning, a disc leaves the vaginal canal unobstructed, making mess-free period sex possible! That’s an added perk that menstrual cups aren’t designed to offer.
Capacity And Wear Time
Like the Saalt Cup, Saalt’s period discs can collect menstrual fluid for up to 12 hours, even on heavier days. The Small disc holds 30 mL (about 3–4 tampons’ worth) of fluid, while the Regular size holds 50 mL (about 5–6 tampons’ worth), giving you long-lasting protection in a slim, barely-there fit.
Compared to the Saalt Cup, the disc has a higher capacity. For instance, the Regular cup holds 30 mL (about 3–4 tampons’ worth), and the Small cup holds 25 mL (about 2–3 tampons’ worth). That extra space means fewer changes, longer wear, and one less thing to think about during your cycle.
Who Might Prefer A Disc
Discs can be a great option if you’ve found cups uncomfortable or you’re looking for less internal pressure. They may also be helpful if your cervix height changes during your cycle. Like all period care, it comes down to your anatomy, preferences, and daily routine. Saalt offers both cups and discs so you can choose what works best for you, or even switch between the two depending on how you’re feeling.
Why Choose A Reusable Disc For Your Flow
Periods shouldn’t mean giving up comfort, confidence, or your commitment to sustainability. Reusable period discs are helping to shift the story of period care, offering a simple way to care for your body while reducing plastic waste. Here’s why choosing one can be a powerful decision for you and the Earth:
- Unmatched Leak Protection: Reusable discs are designed for real life. From spontaneous midnight snack runs to crowded concerts and rushed work commutes, they offer high-capacity protection without the bulk of disposable products. Plus, they can flex to fit your anatomy, letting you move through your day (and night) without needing a bathroom nearby.
- Less Waste, Less Worry: Billions of pads and tampons are used annually, and many of them end up in landfills or oceans. A reusable disc can be cleaned, sanitized, and used again and again, helping you minimize your environmental footprint without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
- Sustainable, Low-Maintenance Support: A single Saalt Disc can last for years with proper care, giving you a reliable option that’s always on hand. No more emergency store runs or guessing how much product to pack. It’s period care that keeps up with your life.
The best period discs help reshape how people experience their cycles, and they’re designed for those who want better for themselves and the planet. What if your flow could help fuel positive change? With a reusable disc, it can!
How To Insert And Remove A Period Disc Like A Pro
Let’s be real: trying out a period disc for the first time can feel a little intimidating. But with a little practice, it can become second nature. There’s no shame in a few initial mishaps (we’ve all been there before). It’s definitely a skill that takes a little practice, but we know that you’ll get the hang of it in no time! Here are some pro tips to make the experience a whole lot smoother.
Inserting Your Saalt Disc
Before first use, sanitize your disc by boiling it in water for 4–5 minutes (no more than 7). Use tongs or a whisk to keep the disc from resting on the bottom of the pot. Once sanitized, wash your hands and clean your Saalt Disc thoroughly with warm water and a pH-balanced cleanser. Rinse well to ensure no soap residue remains.
To insert, pinch the disc by pressing the rim together to form an “8” shape, making sure the removal notch is at one end. Many people find it easiest to insert while sitting on the toilet with their legs spread, but squatting or standing with one leg raised also works. Gently separate your labia with one hand, and with the other, slide the pinched disc into your vaginal canal at a horizontal angle, aiming toward your tailbone. The removal notch should be the last part to enter. Once inside, push up on the front rim to nestle it behind your pubic bone. This helps the disc pop open and stay securely in place, sitting just below the cervix at a slight diagonal.
When learning how to use a period disc, comfort and position matter. If you feel the disc slipping, or if you can feel your cervix outside of the basin, try removing and reinserting. A properly positioned disc should feel barely noticeable.
Removing Your Saalt Disc
To remove, start by washing your hands and relaxing your body in a comfortable position (sitting or squatting both work). Then, insert a clean finger behind your pubic bone and feel for the rim, not the basin. Use the removal notch or hook your finger under any part of the rim, gently pulling it out at a horizontal angle. Avoid pulling from the thin basin alone, as this could damage the silicone. To minimize pressure and avoid spills, keep the disc upright and pinch it with your other hand as it exits.
Reinsert When Ready
Once removed, empty the contents into the toilet or sink. If you're wondering how to clean a period disc, start by rinsing with cold water to prevent staining. Then wash and rinse thoroughly with warm water and Saalt Wash or a mild, pH-balanced cleanser. Once clean, your disc is ready to go back in. Refer to the steps above if you need a quick refresher. Practice makes perfect!
Sanitizing Between Cycles
Between cycles, give your disc a deeper clean to help keep things fresh. You can sanitize it by boiling in water for 4–5 minutes (never more than 7), using tongs or a whisk to keep the disc from touching the bottom of the pot. Alternatively, you can wipe it down with 70% isopropyl alcohol; just make sure all surfaces are fully saturated, and let it air dry completely. For added convenience, the Saalt Steamer or Saalt Compact Sanitizer can also be used for hands-free sanitization.
Smart Storage
Proper storage is the secret to a long-lasting, high-performing period disc. After it’s completely dry, store it in the bag it came in (or another breathable container). Avoid plastic or airtight containers, which can trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth. Some discoloration over time is normal, and may vary from one person to another. However, if your Saalt Disc is ripped or torn, or the silicone shows signs of deterioration (which can happen after using non-recommended cleaners) it’s time to get a replacement.
Period power means feeling clean, cared for, and confident every step of the way. Whether you’re new to discs or just leveling up your care routine, Saalt makes it easy to treat your body with the respect it deserves.
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