Note: This article is for educational and product-comparison purposes only. Menstrual care is personal, and anyone with pain, unusual bleeding, an IUD, recent childbirth, pelvic health concerns, or repeated leaks should ask a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Menstrual discs had a major glow-up in 2023. Once considered the mysterious cousin of the menstrual cup, the disc stepped into the spotlight as a flexible, high-capacity, often reusable period product for people who wanted longer wear time, less waste, and fewer emergency tampon runs. In other words, the menstrual disc became the calm friend who remembers to bring snacks, backup plans, and a stain remover pen.
The best menstrual discs of 2023 were not chosen simply because they looked cute in a bathroom drawer. Expert reviewers and consumer testers focused on real-life performance: comfort, material quality, leak protection, removal design, size options, capacity, ease of cleaning, and whether the product made period care feel less like a monthly obstacle course. The top options included reusable silicone discs, disposable discs for beginners, and designs with helpful removal notches, grooves, strings, or tabs.
Below is a detailed, SEO-friendly guide to the 7 best menstrual discs of 2023, including who each disc is best for, what makes it stand out, and what to know before trying one. No dramatic period-product sales pitch herejust practical information, a little humor, and enough detail to help readers choose wisely.
What Is a Menstrual Disc?
A menstrual disc is an internal period product that collects menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it. Unlike tampons, which absorb flow, or menstrual cups, which usually sit lower in the vaginal canal and rely on suction, menstrual discs sit higher near the cervix in the vaginal fornix. The rim tucks behind the pubic bone to help keep the disc in place.
Most menstrual discs are made from medical-grade silicone or a flexible medical-grade polymer. Some are reusable for several years, while others are disposable after one use. Many brands state that their discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on flow, but users should always follow the instructions on the package and avoid wearing any internal menstrual product longer than recommended.
How Experts Compared the Best Menstrual Discs of 2023
When experts and testers reviewed menstrual discs in 2023, they looked beyond pretty packaging. A disc may look like a tiny futuristic flying saucer, but the real question is whether it works comfortably during a school day, work shift, workout, errand marathon, or overnight stretch.
Key Testing Factors
The strongest menstrual discs performed well in these areas:
- Comfort: The disc should not feel pokey, stiff, or distracting once placed correctly.
- Leak protection: A good fit helps reduce leaks, especially on heavier days.
- Ease of insertion: Flexible rims, slim folds, and beginner-friendly designs matter.
- Ease of removal: Notches, grooves, tabs, or strings can make a big difference.
- Capacity: Higher-capacity discs may be helpful for heavy flow.
- Material: Medical-grade silicone is common in reusable discs.
- Value: Reusable discs cost more upfront but may save money over time.
- Size options: Different cervix heights and body shapes may need different fits.
7 Best Menstrual Discs of 2023
1. Saalt Menstrual Disc Best Overall Menstrual Disc
The Saalt Menstrual Disc earned strong attention in 2023 because it checked several important boxes: reusable design, two size options, a thoughtful removal notch, and solid leak protection. Saalt offers the disc in small and regular sizes, which is helpful because menstrual discs are not one-size-miracle. Bodies are different, and period products should get the memo.
The Saalt disc is made from soft, medical-grade silicone and is designed to sit below the cervix while collecting menstrual fluid. Its finger notch makes removal easier than discs that require users to simply hook a smooth rim. For beginners, that little notch can feel like the difference between “I’ve got this” and “Why did I choose this bathroom stall for my personal growth journey?”
Best for: People who want a reusable, high-quality disc with size options and a removal feature.
Pros: Two sizes, reusable, removal notch, strong overall design.
Cons: Some users may find the rim slightly firmer than softer discs, and insertion may take practice.
2. Flex Menstrual Disc Best Value Menstrual Disc
The Flex Menstrual Disc became one of the most recognizable names in menstrual discs. It is widely known for disposable discs, though the brand also offers a reusable version. For beginners, disposable Flex discs can be an approachable way to try the disc experience without committing to cleaning and storing a reusable product right away.
Flex discs are flexible, beginner-friendly, and designed for up to 12 hours of wear, depending on flow. The disposable version is convenient for travel, busy schedules, or anyone who wants a lower-maintenance introduction. The reusable Flex disc appeals to people who like the design but want less monthly waste.
Best for: Beginners who want an affordable, easy-to-find menstrual disc.
Pros: Accessible, comfortable for many users, disposable and reusable options available.
Cons: Disposable discs create more waste, and some versions do not include a pull tab or notch for removal.
3. Nixit Menstrual Disc Best No-Frills Menstrual Disc
The Nixit Menstrual Disc is a reusable, one-size disc made from soft silicone. It has a simple design with no string, tab, or notch. For some users, that minimalist style is exactly the appeal. There are no extra pieces to adjust, trim, or second-guess. It is the “plain white T-shirt” of menstrual discssimple, useful, and surprisingly dependable when it fits well.
Nixit is known for its soft feel and generous capacity. It may be especially appealing to users who dislike firmer rims or who want a reusable disc without complicated features. However, because it is one-size-fits-most, it may not work perfectly for everyone. Fit matters, and a disc that is too large or too small can cause leaks or discomfort.
Best for: Users who prefer a soft, simple reusable disc without extra removal features.
Pros: Soft silicone, reusable, high capacity, minimalist design.
Cons: One-size design may not suit everyone, and removal can take practice.
4. Cora Menstrual Disc Best Menstrual Disc for Easy Removal
The Cora Menstrual Disc stands out because of its finger-width groove, designed to make insertion and removal easier. This feature is especially helpful for people who feel nervous about retrieving a disc. Menstrual discs cannot get lost inside the body, but during the first few tries, logic may briefly leave the group chat.
Cora offers a reusable disc with a design that focuses on comfort and control. The groove gives users a clear place to press or hook during removal, which can make the learning curve less intimidating. Some Cora options also vary in rim firmness, giving users a choice between softer flexibility and a slightly more structured fit.
Best for: First-time reusable disc users who want a more intuitive removal design.
Pros: Finger groove, reusable, beginner-friendly, thoughtful design.
Cons: One-size format may not be ideal for every cervix height or anatomy.
5. Diva Disc Best Menstrual Disc for Beginners
The Diva Disc comes from Diva, a brand already well known in the menstrual cup world. The Diva Disc was designed with a leak-resistant shield and an anti-slip pull tab, making it a strong choice for beginners who want extra help during removal.
The pull tab is the headline feature here. For users who have tried smooth-rim discs and thought, “Great, but where exactly am I supposed to grab this thing?” the Diva Disc offers a more reassuring design. It is flexible, comfortable for many users, and aimed at making the switch from tampons or pads less intimidating.
Best for: Beginners who want a reusable disc with a pull tab.
Pros: Pull tab, flexible feel, reusable design, beginner-friendly brand reputation.
Cons: One-size design, and some users may prefer a firmer rim for a more secure fit.
6. Lumma Menstrual Disc Best Menstrual Disc With Size Options
The Lumma Menstrual Disc is popular among users who need more sizing flexibility. It is available in multiple sizes, which can be helpful for people with a low, average, or high cervix. Disc sizing can be confusing at first, but it matters. A disc that fits well should feel comfortable and stay tucked in place without causing pressure.
Lumma also includes a removal string, which is unusual among menstrual discs. Some users love the added confidence; others may prefer to trim it or choose a string-free disc. The main advantage is choice. Lumma understands that period products are not jeans from a mysterious online storeyou should not have to guess wildly and hope for the best.
Best for: Users who want multiple size options or help with removal.
Pros: Three sizes, removal string, colorful design options.
Cons: The string may not appeal to everyone, and finding the right size may require research.
7. June Menstrual Disc Best Menstrual Disc for Comfort
The June Menstrual Disc earned attention as a comfortable and budget-conscious reusable disc. Many users liked its soft feel and lower price compared with some premium reusable discs. It is designed for long wear, depending on flow, and comes with a storage pouch for convenience.
June may be a good option for people who want to try a reusable disc without spending top-dollar. As with many discs, insertion and removal can feel tricky during the first cycle. That is normal. Nobody becomes a menstrual disc wizard on day one. Even wizards probably read the instruction leaflet twice.
Best for: Budget-conscious users looking for a soft, reusable disc.
Pros: Comfortable for many users, reusable, often more affordable.
Cons: May require practice, and fewer size options may limit fit for some users.
Menstrual Disc vs. Menstrual Cup: What Is the Difference?
Menstrual discs and menstrual cups both collect period fluid, but they fit differently. A menstrual cup usually sits lower in the vaginal canal and relies on suction to stay in place. A menstrual disc sits higher, near the cervix, and is held in place by the pubic bone and surrounding anatomy.
This difference affects comfort, removal, and leakage. Some people who dislike cups find discs more comfortable because discs do not rely on suction. Others prefer cups because they are easier for them to remove or because they like the stem-style design. There is no universal winner. The best period product is the one that works for the person using itshocking, but true.
How to Choose the Best Menstrual Disc
Consider Cervix Height
Cervix height can affect disc fit. A lower cervix may do better with a smaller disc, while a higher cervix may work better with a larger disc or one with a removal aid. Some brands provide sizing guides, and users may need to try more than one product before finding the best fit.
Think About Flow Level
People with heavier flow may prefer higher-capacity discs such as Nixit, Flex Reusable, Saalt Regular, or similar large-capacity options. However, capacity only helps if the disc fits correctly. A large disc that does not stay in place can leak faster than a smaller disc that fits well.
Look for Removal Features
Removal is one of the biggest learning curves with menstrual discs. If that worries you, look for features like a notch, groove, tab, or string. Saalt, Cora, Diva, and Lumma all offer some form of removal support.
Choose Disposable or Reusable
Disposable discs are convenient and beginner-friendly, but they create more waste and cost more over time. Reusable discs are more sustainable and economical in the long run, but they require washing, storage, and sanitizing according to brand instructions.
How to Use a Menstrual Disc Safely
Always read the instructions that come with the specific disc. In general, users wash their hands, pinch the disc into a narrow shape, insert it back and downward toward the tailbone, then tuck the front rim behind the pubic bone. When positioned correctly, the disc should feel comfortable and should not cause sharp pain.
To remove it, wash your hands, hook the rim or use the disc’s removal feature, keep the disc level if possible, and empty it into the toilet. Reusable discs should be washed according to the brand’s directions before reinsertion and sanitized between cycles if the manufacturer recommends it.
Never ignore pain, burning, unusual odor, fever, rash, dizziness, or symptoms that feel concerning. Toxic shock syndrome is rare, but any internal menstrual product can carry risk if used incorrectly or left in too long. Good hygiene matters: clean hands, clean products, and correct wear time are the unglamorous heroes of period care.
Common Menstrual Disc Questions
Can a menstrual disc get lost?
No. A menstrual disc cannot travel beyond the vagina into the rest of the body. However, it can sit high enough that removal takes patience. Squatting, relaxing the pelvic muscles, and bearing down gently can make removal easier.
Can you sleep with a menstrual disc?
Many menstrual discs are designed for up to 12 hours of wear, depending on flow, which may include overnight use. Always follow the product’s instructions and empty or change it within the recommended time.
Are menstrual discs good for heavy periods?
They can be. Many discs hold more fluid than tampons, but fit is the key. Heavy-flow users may want a higher-capacity disc and backup period underwear during the first few cycles while learning placement.
Are menstrual discs messy?
They can be at first. Removal may take practice, especially with reusable discs. Over time, many users develop a routine and find discs less messy than expected. The first cycle is the training montage.
Real-Life Experiences and Practical Lessons From Menstrual Disc Users
The experience of using a menstrual disc often starts with curiosity, a few nervous questions, and a suspicious amount of time reading reviews. Many first-time users are drawn to discs because they promise longer wear time, less waste, and freedom from the “Do I have enough tampons in my bag?” panic. But the first cycle is usually less glamorous than the product photos. There may be awkward folding, cautious insertion, and a moment of wondering whether the bathroom has become an escape room.
One common experience is the surprise of comfort. When a disc fits correctly, many users say they do not feel it at all. That can be a major upgrade for people who dislike the dryness of tampons or the bulkiness of pads. A well-placed disc sits higher in the body and does not rely on suction, which some users find gentler than a menstrual cup. However, comfort depends heavily on fit. A disc that is too large may cause pressure, while one that is too small may shift and leak.
Another shared lesson is that leaks do not always mean the product is bad. Often, leaks happen because the cervix is not fully covered or the front rim is not tucked securely behind the pubic bone. Many users report better results after watching educational demonstrations, reading brand instructions carefully, or practicing on a lighter-flow day. Backup period underwear can help during the learning phase, especially for school, work, or overnight wear.
Removal is the part that inspires the most dramatic reviews. Some users remove a disc easily on the first try and immediately feel like period-care geniuses. Others need a few attempts before it feels natural. Designs with a notch, groove, tab, or string can reduce stress, especially for beginners. The most useful advice from experienced users is simple: relax, wash your hands, take your time, and do not panic. The disc is not packing a suitcase and moving to another organ.
Reusable discs also change how people think about period spending. The upfront cost may feel higher than a box of tampons, but a reusable disc can last for years when cared for properly. For people trying to reduce bathroom waste, this is a major benefit. Still, reusable products require responsibility. Washing the disc between uses and sanitizing it as directed are essential. Anyone who hates cleaning things with the passion of a thousand suns may prefer disposable discs or another period product.
For active users, menstrual discs can be especially appealing. Many people use them during workouts, dance classes, long shifts, travel days, or sleep. The longer wear window means fewer bathroom interruptions, which is useful when the nearest restroom is either far away, crowded, or mysteriously out of soap. Still, heavy-flow users may need to empty the disc sooner than 12 hours and should learn their own rhythm.
The biggest takeaway from real experiences is that menstrual discs are personal. A disc that one user calls life-changing may be “absolutely not” for someone else. Anatomy, flow, comfort preferences, dexterity, and lifestyle all matter. The best approach is to start with a beginner-friendly disc, follow the instructions, use backup protection at first, and give yourself a few cycles before judging the entire category. Period care should make life easier, not turn every month into a product-testing obstacle course.
Final Verdict: Which Menstrual Disc Was Best in 2023?
The Saalt Menstrual Disc was the best overall choice for many users in 2023 because it offered strong design, two sizes, reusable value, and a helpful removal notch. Flex was the best value pick, especially for beginners exploring disposable discs. Nixit appealed to users who wanted a soft, no-frills reusable option. Cora and Diva stood out for easier removal, while Lumma offered the most size flexibility. June delivered comfort and affordability for budget-conscious shoppers.
Ultimately, the best menstrual disc is not the one with the fanciest name or prettiest pouch. It is the one that fits your body, matches your flow, feels comfortable, and makes your period less annoying. That may not sound dramatic, but in period care, “less annoying” deserves a trophy.
