FAQs about reusable period products

We encourage reusable period products where possible, for a range of reasons. We often get asked questions about them, too. So to mark Earth Day, we’ve pulled together answers to some commonly asked questions, along with 2 practical information sheets, for washables as well as for menstrual cups + discs. 

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER All content and information on this website is for informational and educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Although we strive to provide helpful links containing accurate general information, the information and/or links presented here are not a substitute for any kind of professional advice. Please do not rely solely on this information. Always consult a qualified professional for your particular needs and circumstances prior to making any medical or health-related decisions.

Got more questions? Let us know, and we’ll update this page as needed.

Jump to:

• General questions
• Menstrual cups and discs
• Washable pads and underwear
• Downloads

General questions

There are more and more reusable period products available from menstrual cups and discs, to washable pads and period underwear. They offer a range of benefits over single-use options. They are the most eco-friendly options when properly used, and significantly reduce landfill waste when compared to single-use pads and tampons. And although the initial cost might be higher, you save money in the medium to long run, making them a more cost-effective option.

Reusable options can help reduce your risk of skin irritation, chemical exposure, and even Toxic Shock Syndrome (when used properly). It can also allow you to measure the amount of blood during a period and help assess if you have heavy menstrual bleeding.

As with any option, it’s important to get the right product and fit, and these options can take a little getting used to, whether you’re perfecting insertion and removal techniques or your laundry routine, which is why we also share practical specifics (for washables and for menstrual cups & discs).
Once you’re figured out your routine, you may even notice that they’re easier and more comfortable than single-use options. For example, while you should double-check manufacturer recommendations, cups and discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, holding 3 super tampons or 5 regular tampons worth of blood! 

Yes: people often customize according to need, using a mix of products depending on their flow or activities. For example, some use a menstrual cup during the day, switching to period underwear at night, or use washable pads as back-up on heavy days.
You should not combine several internal-use products such as disc, cup or tampon at the same time, but you can use one of them in combination with period underwear or pads as backup to avoid leaks.

Yes! Some of these products are specifically designed for overnight use. Do be sure you don’t exceed the recommended wear time (usually 8–12 hours) indicated by the manufacturer.

When used correctly and changed as needed, they’re very effective, and the risk of leaks is low. It may take a little trial and error to find what works for your body and flow, however, so using a backup can help while you’re exploring the options that work best for you.

With proper care, menstrual cups and discs can last up to 5–10 years. Washable pads and period underwear typically last 3–5 years depending on usage and care routine.

A closer look at menstrual cups + discs

Menstrual cups and discs are small flexible recipients which are inserted into the vagina. Please be sure your selection is made of medical-grade silicone. Rather than absorbing, they collect menstrual blood inside the body, which means they do not impact the vagina’s natural moisture balance. They also hold more blood than a single-use tampon – and can be worn up to 12 hours at a time.
Both eco-friendly options are cost-effective over time, and great for people who want a longer-wear, lower-maintenance period solution.

A menstrual cup is folded and inserted into the vaginal canal, where it opens and forms a seal against the vaginal walls. It stays in place with gentle suction, often thanks to two tiny holes at the top rim, and generally has a stem or hook for removal.

A menstrual disc is shaped more like a flat, round disc and has a thicker, soft rim. Instead of sitting low like a cup, it rests higher up in the vaginal canal, near the base of the cervix, tucked behind the pubic bone. It doesn’t rely on suction. Unlike cups, discs can only be inserted one way, and they can be worn during penetrative sex.

Yes – but there can be a learning curve. If you’ve already used tampons, you’ll likely adjust faster. Starting with a smaller or softer model can help ease the transition, and a reusable pantyliner or pad can eliminate the risk of leaking while getting the hang of it. Keep in mind that it might take a few tries to find the right size or shape for your body and get used to insertion and the fit. And always wash your hands before inserting or removal, to reduce the risk of introducing unwanted bacteria.

Both cups and discs can typically be worn safely for longer than single-use products, up to 12 hours, depending on flow. Their longer wear time makes them a great option for overnight protection.

Menstrual cups and discs can hold more blood than a super tampon — often 3 to 5 times more. If inserted properly and emptied as needed, they rarely leak. Leaks usually mean the cup/disc isn’t sealed correctly or is full, but can also indicate an incorrect size.
When using a disc, some people notice a bit of blood in the toilet and assume a leak—when in fact, it’s just auto-dumping. “Auto-dumping” means the disc partially empties itself while you go to the toilet, especially for a bowel movement. It’s a common, normal result of how discs are positioned in the body.

Rinse and wash your cup or disc with mild and unscented soap after each use during your period. They should be more thoroughly cleaned between periods, 5–10 minutes in boiling water to sterilize. Another option is to periodically sterilize them in the microwave. Be sure to use a microwave-safe container filled with water, and microwave it for 3–5 minutes. Before either insertion or removal, don’t forget to clean your hands, too!

Choosing the right size for your menstrual cup or disc can make a big difference in comfort and effectiveness. 
Discs are generally one-size-fits-most, but some brands offer a couple of sizes. Disc fit and comfort is a matter of degree, and depends more on cervix height and vaginal length than age or childbirth history. 
Although cups usually come in more sizes – at least two (small/large, or size ½) – the sizing can vary by brand, so be sure to review manufacturer specifications. 

For both, there are several criteria:

• Age + experience: If you’re under 30 and haven’t given birth vaginally, a smaller size is usually recommended. If you’re over 30 or have given birth, a larger size may fit better.
• Cervix height: Since the cervix position varies throughout your cycle, check your cervix height during your period. Found at the top of your vaginal canal, your cervix has a similar feel and thickness to the tip of your nose. While squatting or with a leg raised and resting on a surface, and with a clean finger, measure the height using your knuckles. If you can touch your cervix with only your first knuckle inserted, you have a low cervix. Two knuckles means an average cervix, and reaching the base of your finger means you have a high cervix. If you have a low cervix, choose a shorter cup or low-sitting disc. With a high cervix, opt for a longer cup or standard disc.
• Flow level: For light to medium flow, smaller cups/discs are usually recommended. For heavy flow, larger sizes offer more capacity, and fewer changes.
• Pelvic floor strength: If you have a strong pelvic floor (e.g. you’re athletic or do a lot of core work), a firmer cup may stay in place better. If your pelvic floor is weaker (postpartum or less active), a softer or wider cup might seal better.
• Sensitivity + comfort: If you’re sensitive, or new to internal products, a smaller, softer cup or disc might be more comfortable to start with.

You can trim the stem of a menstrual cup if it’s uncomfortable or irritating. Trimming can help make the cup more comfortable, especially if you have a low cervix or if the stem is irritating your vaginal opening. If it’s not bothering you, leave it as is!
Some menstrual cups will tell you to trim the “stem” after a few uses. We recommend you to wait at least a full cycle before doing this as sometimes you can trim it too short and it will be harder to get the cup out.

Sometimes, the way that menstrual cups or disks sit parallel to your urethra makes it feel like your urine is coming out slower. That is okay. You may consider going down in size if this feeling persists.

Although normal use of menstrual cups and discs can stretch or tear the hymen, this doesn’t always happen. Do keep in mind that tears of the hymen can happen from exercise, any internal period product use, medical exams, or other regular activities.

If you aren’t used to using tampons or having penetrative sex, you may want to add a small amount of lubricant to the rim of the menstrual cup/disk when inserting. This can also help relax your vagina and decrease the risk of stretching the hymen too quickly. Also deep breathing/ trying to relax your pelvic muscles can help.

Menstrual discs can be worn during penetrative sex because they sit higher and out of the way, but keep in mind that not everyone finds wearing one during sex comfortable. Menstrual cups should be removed before sex.

Yes, you can! Menstrual discs are more often recommended with IUD use. Please note that if you have a low cervix, there can be a risk of dislodging an IUD with a cup. 

A few precautions to follow:

• Break the seal before removing your disc to avoid tugging on the IUD strings.
• Be gentle and don’t pull forcefully.
• Ask your doctor to trim the IUD strings shorter if they feel too long.
• Be sure to wait about 3 days after getting an IUD before using any internal products, so the IUD has time to settle.

Please check with a medical professional if you have any remaining concerns, to be sure you do not disrupt your contraceptive use.

Simple insertion and removal comes down to getting the technique through a little practice. If you’re used to tampons, you’ll likely adjust faster. If not, starting with a smaller or softer model can help ease the transition. 

The first step is always proper cleaning of hands and the period product. 

Most cups fold for easy insertion and pop open once inside. After proper positioning of your body, the cup is inserted, using one of several types of folds.

There is only one way to insert a menstrual disc: it is pinched in the middle to make a long fold in the shape of a figure-8, held with the rim facing up, and tucked behind the pubic bone. 

Removal requires relaxing and bearing down slightly to properly reach and remove the product. It can be trickier at first so practicing in the shower a few times can make learning easier. For removal, hand-washing and body positioning are once again always the first steps. Download our practical information sheet on menstrual cups + discs for a more detailed explanation.

Sometimes the angle and positioning can make it hard to take out. Don’t panic. There are several things you can try:

• Take a breath. Walk away. Try again later. If the product has been in for greater than 12-24 hours, seek help from a healthcare provider.
• Take a few very deep breaths to try to relax your pelvic floor muscles. When you are anxious, you tend to clench up and that makes it harder to get out.
• Try sitting over the toilet or squatting down. This changes the angle.
• Ask a trusted person to help you. This can be a friend, healthcare provider, partner etc. Make sure they wash their hands well and adding some lubricant can help with any discomfort.

A closer look at washable pads + period underwear

Washable period products are reusable alternatives to single-use pads and liners. They include washable pantyliners, pads and period underwear, all designed to absorb menstrual flow and handle repeated washing. These are eco-friendly and comfortable options, especially for those who prefer non-internal products.

As long as they’re rinsed, washed and dried properly, they’re completely safe. Reusable pads often contain several layers, including a charcoal bamboo fiber layer above an absorbent center layer, as well as a snap or velcro closure. Although very thin and similar to regular underwear, period underwear remains very absorbent and comfortable. They also make a great backup to other options such as a cup or disc, for those with a very heavy flow.

Typically, you should change cloth pads every 4–8 hours, or sooner if you have a heavy flow. Just as with single-use pads, change when they feel damp or heavy. Many brands offer overnight versions with extra absorbency and coverage. The length of time for period underwear will depend on the product’s absorbency level, your flow and personal comfort, but can range 4-12 hours.

The most important is to rinse in cold water, immediately after use if possible, then either machine or hand wash with mild detergent, avoiding fabric softener and the dryer. Fully air dry, keeping in mind their construction will take additional time.

Washables are designed to be soft and breathable, especially period underwear, and many find them more comfortable than single-use pads. They can be found in different sizes and shapes for greater comfort.

Yes, just bring a wet-bag that is waterproof and breathable (to reduce risk of odor or bacteria buildup) to store used products until they can be rinsed, then washed and properly dried.

The number of washable menstrual products you need will vary, depending on your flow, the length of your period, how often you want to do laundry, and which products you’re using. If using only washables, you might need from 4-6 items with a light flow, and up to 8-12 items with a heavy flow. But if you’re doing laundry during your cycle, you can get by with fewer—just make sure you have enough to wear while others are drying. 

While cost-saving in the long run, washables are pricier at first, so we recommend you start out with one before investing in more.

Not always, but they can. Some period underwear, especially from older or less transparent brands, have tested positive for PFAS (a group of “forever chemicals” linked to health risks). PFAS are used to make fabrics water- or stain-resistant, but they’re not necessary for absorbency. We recommend you look for PFAS-free products.

Need more help? Consult the manufacturer for specific questions or a medical professional.

Downloads

Download our practical info sheet on washable pads + period underwear

Download our practical info sheet on menstrual cups + discs