Moon Reusable Menstrual Disc

Menstrual Discs

What Are Reusable Menstrual Discs?

Reusable menstrual discs are soft, flexible, disc-shaped products inserted at the base of the cervix, allowing menstrual fluid to collect rather than be absorbed, as it is when tampons or pads are used. Unlike menstrual cups, menstrual discs sit higher up inside the vaginal canal, providing a different type of fit and experience.

Generally, reusable menstrual discs are manufactured from medical-grade silicone, safe, and durable. These discs are gaining in popularity for their comfort and versatility. Within Kenya, in particular, Nairobi, where eco-friendly products have started to gain more precedence, menstrual discs in Nairobi are fast becoming one of the go-to choices for women looking for a truly sustainable period solution.

How to Use Reusable Menstrual Discs?

Using a reusable menstrual disc is fairly straightforward, though it may take some practice to get used to. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Wash Your Hands

Before inserting your menstrual disc, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. This prevents any bacteria from entering the vaginal canal.

2. Fold and Insert

• Pinch the menstrual disc in half, making it narrow enough to insert.
• Relax your pelvic muscles and insert the folded disc into your vaginal canal, pushing it back and down toward the base of your cervix. The disc will spring open once it’s in the correct position.

3. Position the Disc

• The disc should sit snugly just under the cervix. Tuck the front edge of the disc behind your pubic bone to ensure it stays in place.

4. Removal

To remove the disc:

• Wash your hands.
• Insert a finger into the vagina and hook it under the rim of the disc.
• Pull the disc out gently, being careful not to spill its contents.
• Empty the menstrual fluid into the toilet or sink, rinse the disc, and reinsert or store it.

In Nairobi and other parts of Kenya, menstrual discs can be found online and in stores that specialize in eco-friendly products, making it easier for women to access sustainable period care.

The Advantages of Using Reusable Menstrual Discs

Switching to reusable menstrual discs offers several benefits that can improve your period experience and reduce your environmental impact.

1. Environmentally Friendly

Disposable tampons and pads generate a significant amount of waste. Reusable menstrual discs help reduce the environmental footprint as they can be used for several months or even years with proper care.

2. Cost-Effective

Although the initial cost of a menstrual disc may be higher than a box of tampons or pads, they last much longer. Over time, this can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you’re in Nairobi or elsewhere in Kenya, where buying disposable products every month can add up.

3. Comfortable and Discreet

One of the standout benefits of menstrual discs is that they sit higher in the vaginal canal, making them nearly undetectable when properly placed. Many women report they can’t even feel the disc once it’s in position.

4. Longer Wear Time

A reusable menstrual disc can be worn for up to 12 hours, even on heavy days. This is longer than tampons and pads, allowing for more convenience, particularly if you’re active or have a busy schedule.

5. Can Be Worn During Sex

Unlike tampons and menstrual cups, menstrual discs can be worn during penetrative sex. The disc sits high enough in the vaginal canal that neither you nor your partner will feel it, making period sex much less messy.

6. No Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Unlike tampons, menstrual discs do not absorb menstrual blood, so they pose no risk of TSS, a rare but serious condition associated with tampon use.

In Kenya, more women are embracing these advantages and are making the switch to menstrual discs in Nairobi, where sustainable living is becoming increasingly popular.

The Disadvantages of Using Reusable Menstrual Discs

While menstrual discs offer many benefits, they are not without their downsides. Here are a few drawbacks to consider:

1. Learning Curve

Using a menstrual disc for the first time can be tricky. It may take a few cycles to get used to inserting and positioning the disc properly.

2. Messy Removal

Removing the disc can sometimes be messy, especially if it’s full or if you’re not in a convenient location to clean up afterward. This is a common issue for women using menstrual discs in Nairobi, where public restrooms may not always have the amenities needed for quick cleaning.

3. Not One-Size-Fits-All

Not every woman will find menstrual discs comfortable. Some may prefer other menstrual products like cups or tampons, and finding the right size or fit can be a matter of trial and error.

4. Potential for Leaks

If not positioned correctly, menstrual discs can leak, especially during heavy flows or if the disc is not properly tucked behind the pubic bone.

5. Allergy Concerns

Though rare, some women may have sensitivities or allergies to the silicone material used in menstrual discs.

How Much Do Reusable Menstrual Discs Cost?

Reusable menstrual discs will usually cost between KSh 2,000 and KSh 4,500 in Kenya, depending on the brand and where you buy them from. While this may seem a high initial investment, considering that a disc can last for several years, savings are considerably high over time. In contrast with the money spent on monthly tampons or pads, which start at KSh 500 to KSh 1,500 every month, menstrual discs are an affordable solution that women in Nairobi and beyond might be considering.

How Does a Menstrual Disc Differ from a Menstrual Cup?

Both menstrual discs and cups can be reused, but there are key differences among them:

Placement: Menstrual discs rest higher across the cervix. The menstrual cup always rests lower within the vagina.
Shapes: Menstrual cups come in bell shapes, but menstrual discs are flat and more circular.
Removal: Because of the flexible nature of the discs, it is primarily easier to remove; menstrual cups may be tougher since one has to release the seal before removal.
Sexual Activity: The menstrual disc can be worn during penetrative sex, while most menstrual cups have to be removed.

How Long Can I Wear a Menstrual Disc?

Depending on your flow, you can wear a reusable menstrual disc for as long as 12 hours. The extra time taken when using them makes them a perfect target for women with busy lifestyles, especially with the emergence of Nairobi and other cities in Kenya, where restrooms are not well-equipped to quickly and efficiently remove discs.

Can Menstrual Discs Handle Heavy Flows?

Yes, menstrual discs have the ability to handle heavy flows. Most discs can hold between 30 and 60 milliliters of menstrual fluid—the equivalent of a few tampons. That makes them more suitable for women with heavier periods.

How Do Menstrual Discs Hold Up During Sex?

One of the very distinctive benefits of menstrual discs is that they can be worn during penetrative vaginal sex. The disc will rest so high inside the vaginal canal that it’ll be out of the way. Many couples then find it lessens the mess associated with period sex enough to stay intimate without concern about leaks.

Do Menstrual Discs Actually Curb Cramping?

While limited scientific study supports the theory, some ladies say that menstrual discs cut down on menstrual cramps. Supposedly, because the discs do not create that suction effect menstrual cups do, they perhaps apply less pressure in the vaginal canal leading to less discomfort.

Are Menstrual Discs Reusable?

Yes, washable menstrual discs can be used for many years if properly cared for. They should be washed with mild soap and water after each use. It is highly recommended that at the end of a cycle the disc be boiled for a few minutes, so that when putting it away until the next cycle, it will be completely sterilized.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Menstrual Discs?

According to Healthline Article:

Menstrual cups have been linked to a risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), with a few cases reported, but there haven’t been any significant risks specifically related to discs.

A bacterial infection is the cause of TSS, a rare but dangerous illness that manifests suddenly as fever, low blood pressure, and rash.

Wash your hands after handling discs and make sure you always use them as prescribed to lower your risk of TSS.

Like any other insertable menstrual product, there is no greater chance of one getting “lost” up there. To get to it, though, you might have to bear down or try different positions if there isn’t a string or loop to grab.

Final Thought: Reusable Menstrual Discs—Extra Worth Switching To?

In everything from rites of passage to green-conscious decisions, the switch to reusable menstrual discs is highly favorable for many women. For one, the money will start to add up over time, in addition to being more environmentally friendly, and for many individuals, an option they can wear while having sex.While there may be a learning curve and some challenges, the long-term advantages often outweigh the drawbacks.

If you live in Nairobi or elsewhere in Kenya, making the switch to menstrual discs in Kenya could offer you a more sustainable and convenient period experience. Whether you’re concerned about the environment, your budget, or simply looking for a more comfortable option, menstrual discs are worth considering.

FAQS

1. Can I use a menstrual disc if I have an IUD?
Yes, menstrual discs can be used with an IUD. However, it’s recommended to check with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your specific IUD model.

2. Can I sleep with a menstrual disc in?
Yes, menstrual discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, making them a great option for overnight protection.

3. Are menstrual discs comfortable?
When inserted correctly, most women report that they can’t feel their menstrual disc at all. It may take some time to get used to the positioning, but they are generally comfortable.

4. How do I clean a reusable menstrual disc?
After each use, wash your menstrual disc with mild soap and water. At the end of your cycle, boil the disc for a few minutes to sterilize it.

5. Can I swim with a menstrual disc?
Yes, menstrual discs can be worn during swimming. They provide a leak-proof barrier that allows you to enjoy water activities without worry.

6. How long do reusable menstrual discs last?
With proper care, a reusable menstrual disc can last for several years, making them a cost-effective option.

Capacity description:
S size Menstrual disc is suitable for Light-Normal flow.
L size Menstrual disc is suitable for Heavy – Very heavy flow.

We recommend that you buy two different sizes of menstrual discs to handle different menstrual conditions.

Note:

The menstrual disc is a reusable recycling product that can be safely worn for 12 hours to collect blood produced during your period.
Unlike tampons, menstrual discs don’t clog the vagina or have the sweltering heat of pads.

Moon Disc