Menstrual cups and menstrual discs both collect your flow instead of absorbing it, both are worn inside the body, and both can be reusable. But they're built differently, they stay in place differently, and they suit different bodies. Here's how a menstrual cup and a menstrual disc compare, so you can choose the one that fits you.
Quick answer: A menstrual cup is bell-shaped and held in place by a light seal; you pinch its base to release it. A menstrual disc is wider and shallower, uses no suction and is removed by hooking its rim. Choose a cup if you want a seal, a stem to find it and a simple routine. Choose a disc if you find suction uncomfortable.
Menstrual cup vs disc at a glance
| Menstrual cup | Menstrual disc | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Bell-shaped, with a stem | Flat ring with a shallow, flexible basin |
| How it stays in place | Opens and forms a light seal | No suction; held by its rim |
| Size | Lunette: 41 mm (Size 1) or 46 mm (Size 2) across | Typically 53 to 80 mm across |
| Capacity | Lunette: 25 ml (Size 1) or 30 ml (Size 2) | Typically 30 to 79 ml |
| Removal | Pinch the base to release the seal, then ease out | Reach the rim (or a tab) with a finger and pull out |
| Wear time | Lunette: up to 8 hours in Australia | Check the brand's instructions |
| Reusable | Yes; a Lunette cup lasts up to 10 years with care | Reusable and single-use versions exist |
Disc figures are from a 2023 review in Obstetrics & Gynecology; cup figures are Lunette's own.
What is a menstrual cup?
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible, bell-shaped cup, usually made of silicone. You fold it, insert it, and it opens inside your vagina, forming a light seal that keeps your flow inside the cup. To remove it, you pinch the base to release the seal and ease it out.
The Lunette menstrual cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone and independently tested by the Danish testing lab TÆNK, which found no unwanted substances. It comes in two sizes, can be worn for up to 8 hours and lasts up to 10 years with proper care.
What is a menstrual disc?
A menstrual disc has a flexible rim, like a cup, but instead of a deep bell it has a wide, shallow basin. Discs range from about 53 to 80 mm across and hold roughly 30 to 79 ml, so they're wider than most cups. A disc has no suction. You remove it by reaching the rim, or a tab on the rim, with a finger.
4 key differences between a cup and a disc
1. Seal vs no suction
A cup stays put with a light seal, which is why you release it before removing it. A disc has no suction at all. If you find the feeling of suction uncomfortable, that's a reason to look at a disc. If you use an IUD, talk to your doctor before using either.
2. Shape and fit
A cup is narrower and has a stem, which helps you find it. A disc is wider and flatter. Your anatomy decides which one is comfortable: cervix height, pelvic floor strength and how much room you have all matter. With a cup, choosing the right size makes the biggest difference; our menstrual cup size guide helps.
3. Capacity
Discs can hold more than many cups, which some people with a heavy flow like. A Lunette cup holds 25 ml (Size 1) or 30 ml (Size 2), which is about the same as three medium-flow tampons. Most people empty a Lunette cup two to four times a day.
4. Removal and mess
Removing a cup means pinching the base to release the seal and easing it out upright. Removing a disc means reaching the rim, or a tab, with a finger and pulling it out level. Both take practice: with a cup, most people get the hang of it within two to three cycles.
Which should you choose?
A menstrual cup may suit you if you:
- want a product that stays put with a seal,
- like having a stem to find and grip,
- want one product that lasts up to 10 years with proper care,
- have a low cervix or strong pelvic floor (the softer Lunette Size 1 is designed for this).
A menstrual disc may suit you if you:
- find suction uncomfortable,
- want a wider, shallower shape,
- want to wear a period product during sex (some disc users do).
Still undecided? Read how to use a menstrual cup to see what's involved.
Caring for a cup or a disc
Silicone cups and discs are cared for the same way:
- wash your hands before inserting or removing,
- clean it every time you empty it: Lunette Cup Wash is made for silicone cups and discs,
- no water? Lunette Cup Wipes clean a cup or disc on the go,
- Boil 5 minutes before first use and after each completed cycle.
- store it in a breathable pouch, like the Lunette linen pouch.
Ready to try a cup? Choose your Lunette period cup in Size 1 or Size 2, shipped within Australia with Australia Post.
Menstrual cup vs disc: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a menstrual cup and a disc?
A menstrual cup is bell-shaped and held in place by a light seal; you pinch the base to release it. A menstrual disc is wider and shallower, has no suction and is removed by hooking its rim. Discs are typically 53 to 80 mm across; Lunette cups are 41 or 46 mm.
Is a menstrual disc better than a cup?
Neither is better for everyone. A cup suits people who like a seal, a stem and a simple routine. A disc suits people who find suction uncomfortable or want a wider, shallower shape. Your anatomy, flow and comfort decide which works for you.
Which holds more, a menstrual cup or a disc?
Discs often hold more: a 2023 review gives 30 to 79 ml for discs. A Lunette cup holds 25 ml (Size 1) or 30 ml (Size 2), about the same as three medium-flow tampons. Most people empty a Lunette cup two to four times a day.
Is a menstrual cup or disc easier for beginners?
Both take practice. With a cup, the stem helps you find it and the seal holds it in place, and most people get the hang of it within two to three cycles. Lunette often suggests the smaller, softer Size 1 for first-time users.
Can I use Lunette Cup Wash on a menstrual disc?
Yes. Lunette Cup Wash is made to clean silicone menstrual cups and discs, and Lunette Cup Wipes work on both when you don't have water. Boil 5 minutes before first use and after each completed cycle.
Sources
- Liberty A, Samuelson Bannow B, Matteson K, Edelman A, Colwill A. Menstrual Technology Innovations and the Implications for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2023.
This article is for general information and isn't medical advice.
