If you’re looking into reusable period products, you’ve probably come across both menstrual cups and menstrual discs. While they may look similar at first, they work quite differently inside the body and each offers different benefits depending on your lifestyle, anatomy, and comfort preferences.

At bohokiwi, we offer both menstrual cups and menstrual discs because one style does not fit everyone. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your period.

What Is a Menstrual Cup?

A menstrual cup is a soft, reusable cup usually made from 100% medical-grade silicone. It sits lower in the vaginal canal and collects menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it like a tampon.

Most menstrual cups are bell-shaped and create a gentle seal against the vaginal walls to prevent leaks.

Benefits of Menstrual Cups

• Reusable and eco-friendly
• Can be worn for up to 12 hours
• Available in different sizes and firmness levels
• Cost-effective compared to disposable products
• Suitable for light to heavy flows
• Great for sports, swimming, and everyday wear

Things to Consider

Some people find cups take practice to fold and insert correctly. Because they sit lower in the vaginal canal, users may sometimes feel the stem if the size or placement is not quite right.

What Is a Menstrual Disc?

A menstrual disc is also a reusable period product made from medical-grade silicone, but it sits differently inside the body. Instead of sitting low in the vaginal canal like a cup, a disc sits higher, tucked behind the pubic bone in the vaginal fornix.

Menstrual discs have a wider, flatter shape and do not rely on suction to stay in place.

Benefits of Menstrual Discs

• Can hold more fluid than many cups
• High placement can make them feel almost invisible
• No suction seal
• Suitable for many people with bladder sensitivity or cramping concerns
• Can allow for mess-free intimacy during your period
• Often easier for some users with a high cervix

Things to Consider

Because discs sit higher internally, there can be a learning curve when removing them. Some users may also experience “auto-dumping,” where the disc empties slightly during toilet use before repositioning itself.

Main Differences Between a Menstrual Cup and a Menstrual Disc

Which One Is Better?

There is no single “best” option. It depends on your body and preferences.

A menstrual cup may suit you if:

• You want a traditional reusable option
• You prefer a strong seal
• You are comfortable using tampons
• You want multiple size options

A menstrual disc may suit you if:

• You want higher capacity
• You dislike suction
• You have a high cervix
• You want a product that may allow intimacy during your period
• You want minimal pressure on the bladder

Many people eventually try both before deciding which they prefer.

Why Choose Reusable Period Products?

Reusable menstrual cups and discs can significantly reduce waste and long-term costs. With proper care, many reusable products last for years.

At bohokiwi, our menstrual cups and discs are made from 100% medical-grade silicone and designed to be affordable, comfortable, and beginner-friendly. We also offer steriliser pods, collapsible sterilisers, and carry cases to make reusable period care easier at home or on the go.

Final Thoughts

Both menstrual cups and menstrual discs are excellent reusable alternatives to pads and tampons. The biggest differences come down to shape, placement, and how they stay in place inside the body.

If you want a reusable option with a traditional fit, a menstrual cup may be ideal. If you want higher placement, no suction, and potentially more capacity, a menstrual disc may be the better choice.

The good news is that reusable period care is no longer one-size-fits-all.