Articles / Menstrual Discs 101

Menstrual Discs 101

05.10.2023 5 Minutes
Menstrual Discs 101

Menstrual discs are the talk of the town. If you are ‘disc curious’ but yet to try one - here’s everything you need to know!

We'll break down what they are, how they're different from menstrual cups, how to use and care for them, and why the Hello Disc is stealing the spotlight. Buckle up; this is your crash course in menstrual discology!

What in the World Are Menstrual Discs?

Alright, so let's start with the basics. Menstrual discs are innovative, comfortable, and eco-friendly period products designed to collect your menstrual flow. Think of them as a fresh twist on the classic tampon, but better in so many ways.

Unlike tampons, which sit in your vaginal canal, menstrual discs nestle right under your cervix. Picture it like a little catch basin for your menstrual blood. The beauty of this design is that it can hold more blood than tampons or pads, which means fewer changes throughout the day - in fact you can wear it for up to 12 hours without even removing it. 

Menstrual Discs vs. Menstrual Cups: What's the Difference?

Now, you might be thinking, "Wait a minute, aren't menstrual discs just fancy menstrual cups?" Well, not exactly! While they're similar in some ways, there are crucial differences.

  1. Placement: Menstrual cups sit lower in the vaginal canal and form a seal using scition to stay in place. Menstrual discs, on the other hand, sit higher, right below the cervix. This means you're less likely to feel them and, for many, they're more comfortable.
  2. Capacity: Menstrual discs can hold more flow than cups. Some menstrual discs can hold up to 4 times the amount of blood as a regular tampon, making them ideal for heavy flow days.
  3. Mess Removal: Like menstrual cups with practice you should be able to remove your Hello Disc with no mess. However, menstrual discs without a looped removal device like the ones on the Hello Disc can be a bit messy to remove because you don’t have any control as you bring them out. It’s just one of the many reasons why the Hello Disc gets such rave reviews. 
  4. Leaks: Both cups and discs are designed to prevent leaks, but discs tend to excel in this department due to their unique placement and because they are less reliant on sizing.
  5. Learning Curve: While menstrual cups and menstrual discs can have a learning curve when it comes to insertion and removal, many people find menstrual discs easier to get the hang of. 

How to Use Menstrual Discs:

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to use these bad boys. Trust me; it's easier than you might think!

Step 1: Wash Your Hands - Always start with clean hands.

Step 2: Fold It - Most menstrual discs are designed to fold in half for easy insertion. The diameter will be about the same as a tampon once it’s folded!

Step 3: Get Comfortable - Find a comfy position, whether it's sitting on the toilet, standing with one leg up, or squatting. Do what feels right for you.

Step 4: Insert - Gently guide the folded disc into your vagina, aiming towards your tailbone. Put it up till it’s as high as you can get it and then push the bottom rim up so it tucks behind your pubicbone. 

Step 6: Go About Your Day - You're all set! Menstrual discs can be worn for up to 12 hours without you having to change it.

Step 7: Removal - Wash your hands again, then hook a finger through one of looped rings on your Hello Disc. If you are using another type of menstrual disc, hook your finger under the rim.  Slowly pull down. WIth the Hello Disc, pull the loops upwards as the disc comes out so the contents empty backward and away from your hand. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse, and reinsert if necessary.

How to Care for Your Menstrual Disc:

Like period cups, caring for your menstrual disc is a breeze, and it's a big part of why they're becoming so popular.

  1. Wash It: After emptying the contents, rinse your menstrual disc with cold water to help prevent stains setting in. Use a mild, unscented soap to clean it.
  2. Boil It: At the end of your cycle, sterilise your menstrual disc by boiling it for a three minutes. This ensures it's completely sterilized and ready for your next period.
  3. Store It Properly: Keep your menstrual disc in a breathable pouch or container when you're not using it. Avoid sealing it in an airtight bag, as this can lead to unpleasant odours.
  4. Replace It When Needed: Most menstrual discs can last for several years with proper care. However, if you notice any signs of wear and tear, like cracks or tears, it's time to replace it.

Why Menstrual Discs Are Gaining Popularity:

Now that you know how to use and care for them, you might be wondering why menstrual discs are gaining such popularity.

  1. Comfort: Many people find menstrual discs so comfortable, they can’t actually feel them.  
  2. High Capacity: Menstrual discs can hold more blood, making them perfect for heavy flow days.
  3. Leak-Proof: The unique design of menstrual discs makes them highly effective at preventing leaks.
  4. Discreet: You can't feel a well-inserted menstrual disc, which means you can go about your day without any discomfort or awareness of your period. 
  5. Suction-free: Menstrual discs do not rely on suction to stay in place so can safely be worn with an IUD. 
  6. Sex: Because your menstrual disc sits in the vaginal fornix rather than in the vaginal canal -  you can leave it in during sex play and intercourse for a mess-free experience.
  7. Eco-Friendly: Just like menstrual cups, menstrual discs are reusable, which means less waste in landfills.

Hello Disc: The Best on the Market!

Alright, here's the grand finale - the Hello Disc! Why is it considered the best menstrual disc on the market?

  1. Comfortable Fit: The Hello Disc is designed with your comfort in mind. Its unique shape ensures it sits snugly under the cervix without causing discomfort.
  2. Maximum Capacity: With a whopping 5x capacity compared to regular tampons, the Hello Disc can handle even the heaviest of flows.
  3. Leak-Proof: You can trust the Hello Disc to keep you leak-free throughout the day.
  4. World-First Design: The Hello Disc’s unique patented double-loop removal tab design makes it the easiest menstrual disc on the market to use. 
  5. Eco-Friendly: Just like other menstrual discs, the Hello Disc is reusable, reducing your environmental footprint.
  6. Durable: The Hello Disc is made from high-quality, medical-grade silicone that can withstand years of use with proper care. It will save you thousands of dollars compared to the on-going cost of tampons and pads. 

So, there you have it, friends - the lowdown on menstrual discs and why the Hello Disc is stealing the show. It's time to make your period experience more comfortable, eco-friendly, and hassle-free. Say goodbye to leaks and discomfort and hello to the Hello Disc! Give it a try, and you might just wonder why you didn't switch sooner. Happy menstruating!