Reusable Menstrual Discs Australia | Award Winning - my mimi

Is a menstrual cup or disc better for beginners?

Date created: 1 April 2025 Read time: 4 minutes

Beginner guide

Menstrual Disc vs Menstrual Cup: Which Is Easier for Beginners?

Choosing between a menstrual disc and a menstrual cup can feel overwhelming at first. Both are reusable alternatives to pads and tampons, but they sit differently, feel different and have their own learning curves.

This guide compares comfort, placement, removal, capacity and care to help you decide which reusable period product may suit your body and routine. It also explains why many first-time users choose the my mimi menstrual disc.

Quick answer

Is a menstrual disc or cup better for beginners?

There is no single best option for every beginner. A menstrual disc may appeal if you prefer a suction-free fit, a higher placement and a loop tab for removal. A menstrual cup may suit people who prefer a lower, cup-style seal. The best choice depends on your anatomy, flow, comfort preferences and willingness to practise.

my mimi reusable menstrual disc for beginners

The main difference

Discs tuck behind the pubic bone. Cups create a seal lower in the vagina.

A menstrual disc is pinched into a narrow shape, inserted horizontally towards the tailbone and tucked behind the pubic bone. It sits below the cervix and collects fluid in a flexible basin.

A menstrual cup is typically folded, inserted lower in the vaginal canal and allowed to open into a cup-style seal. Both products collect fluid rather than absorb it, but the sensation and removal technique can be very different.

How to use a menstrual disc

Menstrual disc vs menstrual cup at a glance

FeatureMenstrual discMenstrual cup

Where it sitsHigh in the vaginal canal, below the cervixLower in the vaginal canal

How it stays in placeFront rim tucks behind the pubic boneUses a cup-style seal

RemovalLoop tab or rim can be used to guide it outSeal is released before removal

Wear timeUp to 12 hours, depending on flow and instructionsFollow the individual cup’s instructions and your flow

During penetrative sexSome people can wear a disc during sexGenerally removed before penetrative sex

Learning curvePlacement and pubic-bone tuck take practiceOpening, seal and removal technique take practice

Why some beginners choose a menstrual disc

Suction-free placement

A disc does not rely on cup-style suction. It is held in place by the front rim sitting behind the pubic bone, which some people prefer.

Loop tab for removal support

The my mimi menstrual disc has an integrated loop tab designed to give you a clear point to locate and gently guide the disc out.

Two size options

my mimi is available in Small (32 mL) and Large (61 mL), helping you choose a starting point based on factors such as vaginal birth history, flow and comfort.

Longer wear potential

With the right fit and placement, a menstrual disc can be worn for up to 12 hours depending on your flow. Heavy-flow days may require earlier emptying.

Built for everyday routines

Many users choose discs for work, sleep, exercise, swimming and travel. Individual comfort and experience can vary.

Reusable period care

With correct cleaning, drying and storage, one reusable disc can reduce your reliance on single-use pads and tampons over time.

my mimi sizes

Start with a fit that gives you room to learn

Finding the right size can make insertion, security and comfort much easier. Size guidance is a starting point only; it is normal to need some practice while learning what feels right for your body.

Small32 mL capacity

Large61 mL capacity

Loop tabRemoval support

12 hrMaximum wear time*

Disc basics

How to insert a menstrual disc

Wash your hands, pinch the disc into a narrow shape and guide it horizontally towards your tailbone. Once it is fully inside, tuck the front rim behind the pubic bone.

When positioned correctly, the disc should feel comfortable and largely unnoticeable. If it feels low, pinches or leaks, remove it and try again.

Read the beginner insertion guide

Cup basics

What a menstrual cup can feel like

Menstrual cups sit lower in the vaginal canal and commonly create a light seal. Some people love that secure feeling; others prefer a disc’s higher placement and suction-free design.

Whichever product you choose, give yourself time to learn the technique. Trying it at home during a quieter moment can make the learning stage feel less stressful.

Learn more about menstrual discs

IUDs, pain and fit

When to get personalised advice

Many people with an IUD use menstrual discs, but it is sensible to speak with your healthcare provider before switching, particularly if your IUD was recently inserted or you have concerns about the strings.

Persistent pain, unusual symptoms, postpartum changes, pelvic-floor concerns or difficulty removing an internal period product are all good reasons to seek individual advice from a qualified health professional.

Choose size based on fit, not capacity alone
Use clean hands and follow the product instructions
Take your time during the first few cycles
Stop use if you experience ongoing pain or discomfort
Speak with a clinician for IUD or pelvic-health concerns

Why my mimi

A practical reusable menstrual disc for first-time users

The my mimi menstrual disc is made from soft medical-grade silicone and designed with a suction-free shape, two size options and an integrated loop tab to support easier removal.

my mimi was named Best Sustainable Period Care Solution in Australia for 2025. The right fit and technique still matter, so use the size guide and practical how-to resources before your first cycle.

Soft siliconeMedical-grade material

Suction-freeDisc-style placement

Loop tabRemoval support

Two sizesSmall and Large options

Up to 12 hoursDepending on your flow

ReusableWith proper care

Helpful next steps

Feel more confident before your first cycle

Read the insertion guide before you start, check your size and have a gentle cleanser ready for routine care. A small amount of water-based lubricant may help some people during the learning stage.

A menstrual disc is not contraception and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Experiences are personal, so keep expectations realistic and give yourself time to learn.

Find your menstrual disc size How to use a menstrual disc Troubleshoot leaks and fit Read real customer reviews

Ready to explore?

Find the my mimi menstrual disc that suits your starting point

Use the size guide for a practical recommendation, then take your time learning placement and removal. Reusable period care gets easier with the right support.

Find your size

Shop the my mimi menstrual disc Menstrual disc vs tampon safety

Health note: This article provides general information only and is not medical advice. Follow your product instructions. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional if you have an IUD, pelvic-health concerns, persistent pain, unusual symptoms or difficulty removing an internal period product.