6 Best Menstrual Cups & Discs (+Guide to Choosing The Right One)

If you're looking for a sustainable solution to manage your period flow, menstrual cups and discs are a wise choice. These alternatives offer numerous advantages over traditional pads and tampons.

Our team at Everyday Essentialist has compiled a list of the best menstrual cups and discs on the market today. Read on to learn about their benefits and why switching to eco-friendly period products matters. We also share some tips on how to find your ideal fit and how to start using these period cups and discs.

Advantages of Menstrual Cups and Discs

Menstrual cups and discs offer several benefits. Firstly, they are cost-effective in the long run. Unlike disposable products that require frequent purchases, a single cup or disc can last for years with proper care. This not only saves you money but also minimizes the amount of waste ending up in landfills.

Additionally, menstrual cups and discs contribute to a healthier menstrual experience. Unlike pads and tampons that can contain harsh chemicals and irritants, cups and discs are typically made from medical-grade silicone or other safe materials. This reduces the risk of irritation and allergic reactions, making them a safer option for sensitive individuals.

Moreover, these eco-friendly alternatives are more sustainable for the environment. With millions of pads and tampons being disposed of each year, the environmental impact is significant. By switching to reusable cups and discs, you can significantly reduce your contribution to landfill waste and help conserve valuable resources.

Disc vs. Cup: Understanding Your Period Product Options

While both menstrual cups and discs offer a reusable alternative to pads and tampons, they have some key differences. Cups are typically bell-shaped and create a seal by suctioning to your vaginal walls, collecting menstrual flow. This design can be particularly well-suited for those with a higher cervix. Additionally, those with a tilted uterus may find cups easier to position correctly.

Discs, on the other hand, are shallower and sit at the base of your cervix, tucked behind your pubic bone. They offer the unique advantage of self-emptying during urination and can be worn during sex – a feature many users find convenient. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual anatomy, flow, and lifestyle preferences.

How to Measure Your Cervix For a Menstrual Cup

Finding the perfect menstrual cup or disc often involves knowing your cervix height. Luckily, it's something you can figure out from the comfort of your own bathroom! The best time to measure is during your period when your cervix tends to sit lower.

After thoroughly washing your hands, find a comfy position—maybe squatting or with one leg propped up. Gently insert your index finger into your vagina. Your cervix will feel like the tip of your nose—firm but somewhat soft. Once you find it, use your thumb to mark where your finger meets your vaginal opening. Remove your finger and measure the distance from the tip of your finger to the point you marked.

This measurement gives you an idea of your cervix height. If you can insert most of your finger, you likely have a high cervix. If you reach your cervix around the middle of your finger, it's likely average. And if you find your cervix almost immediately, you probably have a low cervix. This information can help guide you towards the right size and style of cup or disc for a comfortable, leak-free period!

The Best Menstrual Cups and Discs

Now it’s time to look at some of the best menstrual cups and discs. There are several top contenders that cater to a variety of needs and preferences, but we’ve picked out the best of the options available on the market:

Saalt Menstrual Disc

The Saalt Disc features a thoughtful design with a well-designed indent, making removal easier and more convenient. Its smooth finish and comfortable rim ensure a comfortable fit, allowing for extended wear without discomfort.
Saalt is another female-led business that has devoted itself to providing high-quality menstrual products while supporting menstrual equity initiatives.

Cora The Easy-Does-It Menstrual Cup

This menstrual cup is designed with beginners in mind, featuring a unique design facilitating easy insertion and removal.
Available in two sizes for optimal comfort and leak protection.
Cora is a female-owned company committed to sustainable period solutions and women's health initiatives.

Hello Disc by Period Shop (So unique!)

The Hello Disc stands out with its unique double-looped stem, designed for easier grip and removal.
Its adaptable shape aims to fit a wider range of anatomies, making it a versatile choice.
Made with premium, BPA Free, FDA Registered medical grade silicone.
Hello is a B corp and female owned (designed by a nurse and a period product expert).

Hello Cup for Low and High Cervix

Specifically designed for those with a lower or high cervix, offering s compact design tailored to your anatomy.
Award-winning design and made in New Zealand.
Hello is a B corp and female owned. Made from high-quality medical-grade silicone, providing reliable protection.
Available in sizes S, M, and L (for lovely) for a better fit.

Fun Cup by Fun Factory

Fun cup is manufactured in (trusted) Germany and made with 100% medical grade, FDA registered silicone.
It has a unique, ergonomic design for easy insertion and removal and high comfort.
Comes in two sizes for a heavier and lighter flow. If you have a high cervix, size B will be more suitable for you since it's longer and easier to remove.
Fun Factory focuses on body positivity and sexual wellness.

Lena Menstrual Cup

Features a wider design for enhanced leak protection and a secure seal-ideal for physically active girlies.
The Lena Cup is rigid just enough to make it super easy to insert. Their size small cup has actually been considered one as one of the best menstrual cups for beginners. I also love the grippy string for an easy removal too.
Lena brand offers sensitive models for women experiencing cramping.
Lena is a female-owned business, made in USA, FDA registered, and dedicated to sustainable and affordable menstrual care.

How to Find Your Ideal Fit

Choosing the right menstrual cup or disc is key for a comfortable and leak-free period experience. First and foremost, you will need to familiarize yourself with your anatomy and menstrual cycle to select the correct size and shape for your body. This means considering several factors: your cervix height, having an IUD, vaginal shape, flow intensity, cramping, and personal preferences regarding firmness and flexibility.

To determine the most suitable product for you, I recommend taking the quiz by Period Nirvana. It's always recommended to talk to you OBGYN and ask them about your anatomy and which type of a cup or a disc is ideal for you. It's essential to take your time during this process, as finding the best option may require some trial and error.

How to Start Using Menstrual Cups or Discs

Using menstrual cups and discs may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and empowering process.

We recommend beginning your journey by wearing a reusable menstrual pad at the start, providing an extra layer of security and comfort during the adjustment period. Gradually transition to using the cup/disc on its own as you become more familiar and confident with its usage.

Once you've found your ideal fit with the guidelines in the previous section and bought your new amazing product, follow these tips to help you make the switch:

First: Practice different folding techniques if you're dealing with a softer product to find the most comfortable insertion method for you.
Secondly: Be slow and careful when inserting and removing the cup or disc. Most of all, it’s important not to be forceful or rough at any stage of the process.
Lastly: Be patient and persistent, as mastering the use of menstrual cups and discs may take some time and practice. But just think about the fact that once you’ve mastered them, you can say goodbye to frequent trips to the store (and bathroom) and hello to a healthier, more convenient and eco-friendly period routine!

Ready to dive into the world of reusable period products? Awesome! I'm excited for you to experience the comfort and freedom of cups and discs. If you have any questions at all, don't hesitate to drop them in the comments below. As a seasoned cup and disc user myself, I'm happy to share my knowledge and help you find the perfect fit for your unique needs!