FAQ: 13 Questions Women Ask About Menstrual Discs

Here are 13 questions that most brands haven’t answered (until now 😉).

If you have any more questions about menstrual discs, feel free to drop them in the comments, we’ll be happy to help!

 

1. Is a menstrual disc a form of birth control? 🤰

No, menstrual discs are not contraceptives.
They may look similar to a diaphragm (which is used for birth control), but discs are only meant to collect period blood, they won’t prevent pregnancy.

Always use a condom, pill, IUD, or other form of birth control if you don’t want to get pregnant.

Everything You Need to Know About Using an IUD with a Menstrual Disc.

 

2. Can a disc get stuck or lost inside me?

Nope, don’t worry, your disc can’t get lost inside your body.
The vagina is only about 3 inches deep, and discs are typically around 2.5 inches, so they’re always within reach.

If you’re struggling to remove it (which happens in less than 0.2% of cases), don’t panic! Just follow our step-by-step removal guide, no ER visit needed.

 

3. Can I sleep with a menstrual disc in? 🌙

Yes! You can wear it overnight, even lying down. It works well for light and heavy flows alike.

We still recommend changing it after 8 hours but many users report wearing it for up to 12 hours without leaks. But be careful not to wear it longer to avoid any risk of TSS.

 

4. Can I swim with a menstrual disc? Is it good for the beach or pool? 🏊

Yes, menstrual discs are great for swimming or wearing under a swimsuit.
Like tampons and cups, they’re internal, so no visible strings or bulky pads.

 

5. Can I use a menstrual disc with other period products?

Yes. Since the disc sits high in the vaginal canal, you can pair it with external products like period panties, pads, or even a liner for backup.

Some people even use it with a tampon, depending on their anatomy but that’s less common.

 

6. Why is my menstrual disc leaking? 🩸

Leaks usually happen because of:

  • Positioning issues (especially for beginners)
  • Size issues (that’s why we offer a 2-size starter kit)

👉 Get our 2-disc kit for the price of 1 to find your perfect fit.
Still leaking? Contact our team, we’re here to help!

 

7. Can I pee or poop with a disc in? 💩

Yes! The disc only blocks your vaginal canal.
Your urethra (pee) and anus (poop) are separate, so you can use the bathroom as usual.

 

8. Why does my disc smell bad? 🤢

It’s normal for discs to have a mild smell, menstrual blood has a natural odor.
A metallic or cheesy smell is totally normal. But if it smells like fish, it may be a sign of infection, talk to your doctor.

To remove odors:

  • Sterilize your disc between cycles
  • Use baking soda, white vinegar, or lemon juice
  • Let it dry fully before storing

Shop the sterilizer for menstrual discs.

 

9. Can I use a disc if I’m a virgin?

Yes, you can use a menstrual disc even if you’ve never had sex.
There’s no medical reason not to. But we recommend being comfortable with your body first.

Note: using a disc may stretch or slightly tear the hymen, which also happens with sports or naturally.

 

10. Are menstrual discs safe?

Yes, as long as you follow these 2 rules:

Our disposable discs require no cleaning, just toss them after use.

 

11. What if I don’t have access to water to clean it? 💧

Here are a few tips:

  • Auto dumping: Use the disc’s auto-dumping feature (learn more about auto dumping here)
  • Wipe it: Use toilet paper to wipe off excess blood
  • Spare disc: Carry a backup disc in a clean pouch
  • Bring water: A small water bottle or travel bidet works too

 

12. Is a menstrual disc painful?

No, most users say they can’t even feel it! 🥰 
👉 Read more user reviews about the menstrual disc

If it’s uncomfortable, it could be:

  • Too rigid
  • The wrong size

 

13. Can I reuse my disposable disc?

Disposable discs are designed for one-time use but Cup&Co's disc is made from medical-grade silicone, so you can boil it and reuse it once or twice if needed.

⚠️ Important: Brands like Flex or OmyDisc use different materials — don’t reuse those unless the brand specifically says it's safe.