Both discs and cups are reusable menstrual products that collect rather than absorb flow. At Saalt, our internal products are made in the USA from 100% medical-grade silicone and are BPA- and latex-free. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical found in some plastics that’s been linked to potential health concerns, while latex can cause allergic reactions. By leaving these out, we prioritize comfort and peace of mind, so you can feel confident about what’s going in your body.
When comparing alternative period products, it often comes down to cervix height, sensitivity levels, and lifestyle. A disc’s flat design and higher placement can feel “out of the way,” while a cup’s lower placement and short stem may give beginners easier access when it’s time to remove. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Placement & Feel: Saalt Discs sit higher with a flat profile, and they come with a custom finger-hold that makes removal a breeze. Meanwhile, cups sit lower with a stem to help you easily locate the base for removal. Both products feel like they’re barely there once inserted properly.
- Learning Curve: Cups offer more tactile feedback on removal, since you have to pinch the base to break the seal. While discs have a textured finger notch, they can be trickier to get the hang of, since they sit higher up.
- Period Sex: Many choose discs because they can be worn for mess-free period sex. Comfort and safety always come first, so remove your disc if anything feels off.
- Capacity & Leaks: Both hold a high volume when sealed correctly. Placement and sizing make the difference.
Whichever you choose, your personal preference and lifestyle should guide your choice. Plus, even if you aren’t an expert the first time around, we promise you’ll get the hang of it with practice! Just make sure to empty and clean your cup or disc at least every 12 hours and sanitize between cycles. You can do this by boiling your chosen product in hot water, using the Saalt Steamer or Compact Sanitizer, or wiping with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Meet The Saalt Disc: Low Profile & High Freedom
Our Saalt Disc is designed to be the most comfortable and easiest reusable menstrual disc to insert and remove. Because it doesn’t rely on suction to seal and sits behind your pubic bone, it’s great for those with a low or high cervix. Once properly positioned, you’ll barely feel that it’s there. If you’re petite, we recommend trying out our small menstrual disc bundle to give you a two different sizes to test at home.
Many people love discs as alternatives to pads and tampons for workouts and long days, since you can wear them safely for up to 12 hours before they need to be removed and emptied. Before reinserting, clean your disc with a gentle, fragrance-free soap and water (Saalt Wash was specially formulated for this). If you can’t wash it immediately, you can use Saalt Wipes or a wet paper towel and thoroughly clean it at the next opportunity.
Meet The Saalt Cup: Supportive & Beginner Friendly
Period cups are positioned lower than silicone menstrual discs, so the Saalt Cup sits in the vaginal canal below the cervix, where it forms a secure seal using suction to collect rather than absorb flow. Our reusable period cup molds to your internal shape, so you can comfortably wear it all day or night without worrying about leaks. However, please note that the 12-hour rule still applies: You should always remove, empty, and wash your cup every 12 hours before reinserting.
Our Saalt Cup uses a slightly firmer silicone, allowing it to pop open easily when inserted. This makes it a great choice for beginners. If you have bladder sensitivities, cramping, or discomfort with firmer cups, try our ultra-soft period cup instead, which is made with a super comfortable silicone formula.
Tampon Alternatives For Swimming
For the pool or ocean, internal methods shine. Discs sit high and don’t have a dangling string, which many swimmers find more subtle under swimsuits. Meanwhile, period cups are equally capable when properly positioned. Empty right before you swim, check the seal, and you’re all set! This is exactly the reassurance you want from alternatives to tampons on beach days. After swimming, rinse your product with cool water and reinsert, keeping the 12-hour max wear rule in mind.
How To Choose Size & Firmness
If you’re petite, postpartum, or new to internals, smaller sizes (or a softer cup) often feel more comfortable. If you’re active or prefer a firmer seal, a standard Saalt Cup may suit you best. For discs, start with a regular size; if you feel pressure or discomfort, feel free to size down. When in doubt, try a bundle like the Small + Regular Saalt Disc Duo to test what your body prefers.
Measuring Cervix Height & Anatomy Cues
Your cervix height helps determine which size and style will feel best. Luckily, measuring it is a pretty simple process. Insert a clean finger into your vaginal canal on a non-period day until you feel something that has the same texture as the tip of your nose with a small hole in the center. It’ll feel shiny or smooth, while the surrounding tissue will be more spongy. If you don’t feel it at first, don’t worry! Everyone’s anatomy is different. Try moving your finger around the vaginal canal. Your cervix might be tucked to the left, right, front, or back rather than straight up.
If you can feel your cervix after inserting one knuckle, it’s on the lower side. Feeling it after two knuckles indicates a medium height, whereas three knuckles (or not feeling it at all) means your cervix is high. Those with lower cervixes often prefer smaller cups or a period disc, while high cervixes can typically be comfortable with standard sizes.
Lifestyle Match: Movement, Workouts, & Travel
Think about where you’ll use your device most. For high-impact workouts or long travel days, a standard-firmness cup or a well-seated disc provides confident leak-proof protection that stays put. For desk days or if you’re extra sensitive, a softer cup or flexible disc may feel more pleasant. If your routine varies or your cervix height shifts during your period, a Saalt Disc Duo or Saalt Cup Duo Pack might help you dial in comfort for both high-movement days and laid-back schedules.
Read also:
