The Short Answer
Menstrual discs are highly safe, non-toxic, and FDA-regulated. They are widely considered one of the safest internal alternatives to traditional tampons.
In September 2024, independent lab testing confirmed that top menstrual discs are 100% free of PFAS, lead, arsenic, and cadmium. Because they collect blood rather than absorbing it, they also carry a near-zero risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
Why This Matters
The recent discovery of toxic metals in tampons sent millions of women searching for safer period products. Menstrual discs are one of the cleanest alternatives available. Are Tampons Toxic
Tampons absorb your natural moisture along with your period, which can cause micro-tears in the vaginal wall. These micro-tears are the primary entry point for TSS-causing bacteria. Discs simply collect the fluid, leaving your delicate vaginal biome perfectly intact. Can Menstrual Cups Cause Tss
Discs also sit higher in the vaginal fornix and don't rely on suction. This makes them significantly safer for women with IUDs compared to traditional bell-shaped cups, which have been known to accidentally dislodge strings. Are Menstrual Discs Safer Than Cups
What's Actually In Menstrual Discs
Most discs contain just one or two inert ingredients. Unlike conventional tampons, they are incredibly clean.
- Medical-Grade Silicone ā The gold standard for reusable discs. It is hypoallergenic, non-porous, and physically cannot harbor bacteria if boiled properly. Is Silicone Menstrual Cup Safe
- Medical-Grade Polymers (TPE) ā The material used for disposable discs like Flex. It safely warms and molds to your body without leaching endocrine disruptors.
- Contaminants (PFAS & Heavy Metals) ā Top disc brands test clean. While tampons and period underwear have failed recent safety tests, reputable silicone and TPE discs remain fundamentally non-toxic. Is There Pfas In Period Underwear
What to Look For
Green Flags:
- 100% Medical-Grade Silicone ā This is the safest and most durable material for internal use.
- FDA Registration ā This ensures the product actually meets strict medical device manufacturing standards.
- Independent Lab Testing ā Look for transparent brands that publicly publish their heavy metal and PFAS screening results.
Red Flags:
- Latex or Rubber ā These are older materials that can trigger severe allergic reactions in the vaginal canal.
- Generic Amazon Knockoffs ā Cheap, imported discs often use basic food-grade silicone instead of medical-grade, which can degrade inside the body.
- Leaving it in past 12 hours ā Even the safest materials become a bacterial breeding ground if left in too long.
The Best Options
If you are switching to discs, stick to the major, tested brands. You can read our full deep-dives on the safest options here: Is Flex Disc Safe and Is Nixit Disc Safe.
| Brand | Product | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saalt | Saalt Disc | ā | 100% medical-grade silicone with rigorous cytotoxicity testing. |
| Flex | Flex Reusable Disc | ā | Passed 2024 third-party tests for zero heavy metals and PFAS. |
| Nixit | Menstrual Disc | ā | BPA-free silicone with a comfortable, double-rim design. |
| Flex | Softdisc | ā ļø | Safe medical polymers, but single-use plastic creates unnecessary waste. |
The Bottom Line
1. Ditch the tampons. ā Discs eliminate the risk of heavy metal exposure and drastically reduce your risk of TSS.
2. Buy medical-grade silicone. ā Reusable discs are safer for your body and far better for the planet than single-use plastics.
3. Boil between cycles. ā Your disc is only as safe as your hygiene routine. Sterilize it in boiling water for five minutes after every period.
FAQ
Can menstrual discs cause TSS?
The risk is exceptionally low, but not zero. Because discs collect blood rather than absorbing it, they don't cause the vaginal micro-tears associated with tampon-related TSS. You simply need to remember to empty and wash them every 12 hours. Is Tss Still A Concern
Are menstrual discs safer than tampons?
Yes, by almost every metric. They don't contain bleach, they don't shed microscopic fibers inside you, and recent lab tests confirm they are completely free from the heavy metals found in major tampon brands. Are Tampons Toxic
Are menstrual discs safer than cups?
They are equally safe for your body, but discs are significantly safer for your IUD. Cups use vacuum suction to stay in place, which carries a small risk of dislodging an intrauterine device upon removal. Discs bypass this risk by simply resting behind your pubic bone. Menstrual Cup Vs Disc