The menstrual disc has been winning over many women for providing more freedom and practicality during the menstrual period.
With the advancement of technology and products sold by industries, women have new and much more practical resources to take care of their intimate area during menstruation. For example, collectors, absorbent panties and the menstrual disc.
Ultimately, these resources are increasingly conquering the female world, replacing the uncomfortable and traditional disposable pads.
Furthermore, the menstrual disc consists of a disc-shaped collector, which has been one of the most popular because it presents benefits in its use. Such as the possibility of having penetrative sex during its use. Therefore, it guarantees more freedom and comfort during menstruation.
In short, this disc can be used for up to 3 years if it is well cared for and sanitized. Generally, it can have a capacity of up to 60 ml and can be used for up to 12 hours with comfort and guaranteed protection.
Main questions about the menstrual disc
1- What is the menstrual disc?
In short, the menstrual disc is an accessory to be used during menstruation, and consists of a type of disc-shaped collector. Furthermore, it is made from hypoallergenic medical silicone and serves as a barrier resource that safely replaces disposable pads.
Furthermore, it is very similar to the menstrual cup. However, they differ in format and in some functions. Finally, it has an oval and discreet shape, which is placed in the vaginal canal, fitting close to the uterus. And, unlike the menstrual cup, it does not require a vacuum for correct positioning.
2- Is a menstrual collector and menstrual disc the same thing?
The menstrual disc and the menstrual collector have similar functions, which is to function as a protective barrier so that blood does not leak. Furthermore, they also seek to ensure comfort for women, avoiding traditional pads, which cause great discomfort.
However, they have some differences in format and benefits. For example, the menstrual cup is shaped like a cup, while the menstrual disc is oval in shape, wider and shorter. This way, the disc keeps the vaginal canal free during use. That is, with it, unlike the collector, it is possible to have penetrative sex.
3- Can it be used as a diaphragm?
Initially, the diaphragm consists of a flexible ring, made of rubber, similar to a condom. And, its objective is to prevent fertilization from occurring. That is, it prevents sperm from reaching the uterus.
Therefore, they need to be inserted between 15 and 30 minutes before intercourse, and removed after 12 hours. Furthermore, the menstrual disc is not used to replace the diaphragm. Because it does not work as a contraceptive method and does not prevent the spread of STDs.
Therefore, using the disc does not inhibit the need to use a condom during sex.
4- What is the usage time and capacity?
The menstrual disc, due to its composition, can be reused for up to 3 years, as long as it is well cared for and sanitized. In this way, it is beneficial for reducing your expenses with disposable pads, and also reduces the amount of waste discarded into the environment.
Furthermore, the disc has a capacity of 49ml to 60ml. And, it can be used for up to 12 hours, maintaining great comfort, freedom and without giving off the characteristic odor of menstruation.
5- How is it placed and removed?
Inserting the menstrual disc is quite simple and easy. So, just follow the following steps:
- Step 1: First, use your thumb and index finger to press the sides of the edge, until it forms the shape of a figure eight.
- 2: Then insert the wider edge into your vaginal canal and use your index finger to push it inside.
- 3: Finally, fold the front edge behind the pelvic bone to position it correctly.
On the other hand, removing it is also quite simple. Check it step by step:
- Step 1: Insert your index finger into the vaginal canal and hook it behind the front edge of the disc.
- 2: Carefully pull it out of the vaginal canal. And always keep it horizontal to prevent blood from spilling.
- 3: Okay, your disk has already been removed, and now it must be cleaned. This way, it can be safely reused again and again.
6- What are the advantages of the menstrual disc?
The menstrual disc has several advantages in its use. At first, the fact that it does not need a vacuum to be properly positioned stands out. Furthermore, to use it you will not need to learn how to fold it to put it in and take it out, as is the case with a menstrual cup.
Furthermore, the disc is reusable and can be used for up to 3 years, if it is well cleaned. And, this helps to reduce spending on disposable pads and also reduce pollution in the environment.
However, something that draws a lot of attention is the possibility of having penetrative sex using the disc. Since, its shape keeps the vaginal canal free, allowing sex without there being blood in the middle.
Furthermore, many women become more aroused during menstruation, and lubrication intensifies, making the act more pleasurable. Therefore, the disc helps by containing the blood and enabling a relationship with total comfort and freedom.
Likewise, it is also possible to pee when using the menstrual disc, without having to remove it. Well, the pee comes out through another channel, not interfering with anything. Also, you can sleep, go to the beach, go into the sea and perform physical activities with the disc without worrying about leaks.
Finally, it is possible to use the disc even if you already have the IUD contraceptive method. Since, the IUD is positioned inside the uterus, and the disc around the cervix. Therefore, you just need to be careful when removing the disc.
7- How to clean and store?
The menstrual disc is made with hypoallergenic medical silicone, and is approved by Anvisa. Therefore, its use is super safe. Furthermore, it leaves your vulva dry and moisture-free, reducing the risk of the proliferation of fungi and bacteria, and the occurrence of infections. However, it is essential that you clean the product correctly.
In short, the disc can be used for 12 hours. However, when it is removed from the vaginal canal, you need to empty it and wash it with water and neutral soap, then dry it well. Furthermore, it must be boiled for about 3 minutes, at the beginning and end of the menstrual cycle so that it is sterilized.
Finally, to be able to store it, you must dry it well and place it in a breathable bag, preferably made of cotton. And, avoid storing it in stuffy places, as it needs ventilation to avoid the proliferation of fungi and bacteria.
Myths about using a menstrual disc
The menstrual disc widens the vaginal canal:
It’s a myth, as the vaginal canal is extremely elastic and wrinkled inside, so it can expand. Therefore, the menstrual disc would not be able to widen the canal. Furthermore, the vagina expands during moments such as sex and childbirth. However, it always returns to its original size and shape.
It can get stuck inside the vagina:
It’s a myth, but it causes great fear in some women. Because, they believe that the menstrual disc can disappear or remain “navigating” through your body. However, this does not happen, as the vaginal canal is normally 7 to 10 cm long. Therefore, it is possible to reach any internal object with your fingers.
Menstrual disc can cause cramping:
It’s a myth. Well, menstrual cramps are directly linked to uterine contractions. Since, the uterus contracts to expel menstrual blood. Therefore, the menstrual disc does not interfere with any of this.
Are there contraindications?
There are no contraindications for using the menstrual disc. Since, it has numerous benefits and its use is quite safe.
However, women who have never had sexual intercourse should avoid using it. Well, the collector can break the hymen. On the other hand, it is also unwise to use it in the first few days after giving birth.
Therefore, if you have any questions about the menstrual disc, consult a gynecologist.
So, if you liked this article, find out more about the subject at: Sustainable absorbents – Importance, benefits + 4 options.
