She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Traditional Period Products

A New Contender Emerges: The Period Disc

Say goodbye to tampons and pads, and hello to the latest innovation in menstrual care: the period disc. This game-changing product offers up to 12 hours of protection, allowing you to live life uninterrupted. Plus, it’s designed for mess-free period sex and can even help minimize cramps.

How Does it Work?

The period disc is inserted into the vagina, where it collects menstrual blood throughout the day. Its unique design features a rim that sits behind the pubic bone, minimizing leaks and ensuring maximum comfort. After 12 hours, simply remove the disc, empty its contents into the toilet, and dispose of it.

Period Disc vs. Menstrual Cup: What’s the Difference?

The menstrual cup has long been the go-to alternative to traditional period products, but the period disc is giving it a run for its money. While both products collect menstrual blood, the period disc is circular and flat, with a plastic insert for catching blood. It’s also typically disposable, unlike the reusable menstrual cup. The key difference lies in their placement within the vagina: the menstrual cup sits below the cervix, while the period disc sits around it.

Inserting a Period Disc: A Step-by-Step Guide

Inserting a period disc may take some practice, but it’s a relatively simple process. Start by washing your hands, then assume a comfortable position (either squatting over the toilet or propping up your leg). Remove the disc from its wrapper, pinch its sides together to make it more narrow, and insert it past your vaginal canal, down and back, completely covering your cervix. Tuck the rim of the disc above your pubic bone to minimize leaks.

Removing a Period Disc: No Strings Attached

Removing a period disc requires a steady hand, but don’t worry – it’s not as daunting as it sounds. Start by washing your hands, then find a comfortable position (either sitting on the toilet or in the shower). Bear down on your pelvic muscles like you would when going to the bathroom, which helps move the disc closer to your vaginal opening. Reach in and hook your index finger under the disc’s rim, pulling it out parallel to the floor. Dump the menstrual blood into the toilet, wrap the disc in toilet paper, and toss it away.

How Long Can You Wear a Period Disc?

A period disc can provide up to 12 hours of leak-free coverage, depending on your flow. It can hold the equivalent of five regular tampons or three super tampons (about 5 or 6 teaspoons). And, as long as you don’t plan on sleeping for more than 12 hours, you can wear it overnight.

Heavy Flow? No Problem!

Contrary to popular belief, period discs can handle heavy flows. You may need to change the discs more often, but they’re designed to keep up with your body’s needs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a heavy flow means you have to change your pad or tampon every 2 hours or less (or you pass clots the size of a quarter or bigger!).

Period Sex, Made Easy

One of the period disc’s main advantages is mess-free period sex. Whether you’re flying solo or engaging in partnered sex, the period disc offers an alternative to destroying all your white bath towels. With the period disc inserted past the vagina canal, penetrative period sex is possible while wearing it (depending on how deep you go).

Working Out with a Period Disc

A period disc is perfect for any physical activity, from yoga to running to swimming. You can still do what you love without worrying about leaks or discomfort.

IUD-Friendly?

Using a period disc with an IUD is generally safe. A 2012 study found that menstrual cups can be used with an IUD, and given their similarities, period discs should be OK too.

Cramp-Free? Not Quite

While some users claim period discs reduce period pain, there’s not enough evidence to prove they reduce cramps. The period disc’s shape and placement outside the vaginal canal may help, but contractions in the uterus are the main cause of cramps.

Reusable? Think Again

Unlike menstrual cups, most period discs are designed to be disposable. Don’t try to reuse them – it’s unsanitary and could lead to infections.

Risks to Consider

As with any menstrual product, there’s a risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) with period discs. However, TSS is rare, and you can reduce your risk by washing your hands before insertion or removal.

Ready to Give Period Discs a Try?

A period disc offers a unique alternative to traditional period products. With its leak-free design, mess-free period sex, and potential to minimize cramps, it’s worth giving it a spin. Try it out and see if it’s the right fit for you!