Menstrual disc comparison with tampons: benefits, differences & tips

Whether you're just starting to explore alternative menstrual products or simply curious about what's out there besides tampons — this menstrual disc comparison will help you get a clear picture.

We’ll show you how tampons and menstrual discs differ, what advantages each offers, and why sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in the world of menstrual products.

From comfort and safety to ease of use, choosing the right period solution is about finding what works best for your body, your routine, and your personal comfort — empowering you to manage your period with confidence.

Want to know how to insert a menstrual disc or how to use a menstrual disc properly? We've got you covered — plus, we’ll explain how to clean a menstrual disc so it stays safe and long-lasting.

What is a tampon and how does it work?

Structure and application

A tampon is a small, cylindrical product made of absorbent material that is inserted directly into the vagina during menstruation to absorb menstrual blood. Unlike a menstrual disc, it stays in the vaginal canal and absorbs the blood there instead of collecting it.

Using a tampon is simple: You insert it into the vagina with your finger or an applicator until it feels comfortable. A string remains outside the body, allowing you to remove it easily later on. Depending on your flow, you should change the tampon every 4 to 8 hours.

💡 Important: A tampon should never be worn for more than 8 hours to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

Tampons: overview of sizes and materials

Tampons come in different absorbency levels so you can choose what suits your menstrual flow best:

• Mini: for very light days or the start of your cycle
• Normal: for an average flow
• Super / Super Plus: for heavier bleeding
• Extra Super: for very heavy days (less common)
  
  

If you’re not yet sure which size is right for you, trial packs with multiple absorbency levels can help you find your personal favorite.

There are also differences in the materials:

Many tampons are made from 100% cotton, while others use synthetic fibers like viscose or polyester. Organic tampons rely on unbleached, chemical-free cotton — a great option for anyone who values skin compatibility and sustainability.

When buying tampons, it’s best to check the packaging carefully: you’ll find details about the materials used and any additives such as fragrances or bleaching agents.

What is a menstrual disc and how does it work?

Structure and application

Menstrual discs are flexible, flat-shaped cups that are inserted into the vagina during your period — but unlike tampons, they don’t sit in the vaginal canal. Instead, they’re positioned just below the cervix, where they collect menstrual blood rather than absorb it.

To insert the disc, you fold it in the middle (for example, like a taco) and slide it in at an upward angle toward the tailbone. Once inside, it unfolds on its own and naturally conforms to the shape of your vaginal canal. The front edge can gently tuck behind the pubic bone — keeping the disc securely in place.

What makes it special: menstrual discs don’t create suction like menstrual cups do, which can make insertion and wearing more comfortable for many users. Plus, the dryness that some people experience with tampons is avoided altogether.

Sizes and materials

Menstrual discs are typically made from medical-grade silicone, which is especially skin-friendly, flexible, and long-lasting. They are reusable and, with proper care, can last for several years.

Many models — like the PapayaDisc, for example — come in two sizes, allowing you to test which one fits your body best. A retrieval tab with textured grip elements makes removal easier, which is especially helpful for beginners.

Tip: For hygienic cleaning after your cycle, it’s recommended to sterilize the menstrual disc. PapayaCup offers a compatible sterilizer in their shop that’s easy to use in the microwave.

Key benefits at a glance

• • Sits below the cervix – no vacuum seal
  • Especially gentle on the skin and soft to wear
  • No sensation of dryness
  • Up to 12 hours of wear time
  • Can be worn during sports, sleep, or even sex (depending on the model)
  • Reusable and eco-friendly

The big comparison: menstrual disc vs. tampon

Still unsure whether a menstrual disc is right for you or if you’d rather stick with tampons? This overview shows you at a glance how the two menstrual products differ — from placement and wear time to sustainability and comfort.

Criteria	Menstrual Disc	Tampon
Position in the body	Below the cervix	In the vaginal canal
Capacity	Very high (up to 30 ml)	Low (approx. 6–18 ml depending on size)
Wear time	Up to 12 hours	4–8 hours
Period sex	Possible (depending on the model, e.g. PapayaDisc)	Not possible
Sustainability	Reusable, plastic-free	Disposable, often contains plastic
Long-term cost	Higher initial cost, cheaper in the long run	Cheap per piece, more expensive over time
Beginner-friendly	Requires a bit of practice to insert	Easier for beginners
Wearing sensation	Barely noticeable, no vacuum sensation	Can feel dry or noticeable

Sustainability of menstrual products under the spotlight

Environmental impact of tampons

Tampons are among the classic single-use menstrual products — and that’s their biggest drawback when it comes to sustainability. Multiple tampons end up in the trash each period, including individually wrapped plastic or cardboard applicators. Over the course of a year, this adds up to a considerable amount of packaging and residual waste.

What’s more: many conventional tampons contain synthetic fibers or microplastics — for example, in the outer layer or the string. Industrial cotton production also comes with a high environmental cost, requiring large amounts of water, pesticides, and energy.

Over a lifetime, a person who menstruates uses an average of 11,000 to 16,000 tampons — a number that highlights the significant environmental burden.

Environmental impact of menstrual discs

Menstrual discs like the PapayaDisc follow a completely different approach:reusability. Instead of using hundreds of tampons per year, one menstrual disc — with proper care — can last for several years.

This means you generate virtually no waste — fully in line with a zero waste lifestyle. No packaging waste, no disposables, no synthetic residues.

The math is simple: instead of using 11,000–16,000 tampons in a lifetime, you only need around 4 to 6 menstrual discs — a clear advantage for anyone looking to make mindful, resource-conscious choices.