Table of contents

Bestie Menstrual Disc

Why choose a disc?

First and foremost, the menstrual disc provides even more reliable leak protection than traditional solutions or menstrual cups.

On top of that comes wearing comfort: you don't feel the disc, it doesn't dry out the vagina, and it even allows for mess-free sex during your period.

Also don't forget about the environment – a menstrual disc is reusable and can last for many years.

Who designed the Bestie menstrual disc?

A team of experts is responsible for the design of the menstrual disc, whose interdisciplinary knowledge and skills make us 123% confident in this product! The design process involved: a urogynecological physiotherapist, a medical specialist in gynecology and obstetrics, a 3D model design engineer, and a specialist from the company manufacturing our menstrual disc (TMRubber Sp z o. o.). The entire production process takes place in Poland.

Light or heavy period – which one is the disc best for?

Whether you have light or heavy days – a menstrual disc is your gamechanger!

Bestie menstrual disc holds approx. 50 ml. For comparison: that is significantly more than pads (5–8 ml), tampons (6–10 ml), or even cups (25–30 ml).

Did you know that during an entire period you usually lose only about 30–80 ml of blood?
On lighter days, this means: insert in the morning, remove in the evening. You can wear the disc for up to 12 hours stress-free. On heavier days, you are also protected — even if you bleed more than average, the disc is still a great solution — just empty it every 4–8 hours.

Note: If your period is exceptionally heavy, it is worth consulting a gynecologist.

You say the disc can be worn for up to 12 hours – is that really hygienic?

Yes – the blood that collects in the disc has no access to oxygen, which limits the multiplication of bacteria.

How to maintain disk hygiene?

Before the first and each subsequent period, sterilize the disc in a pot, stirring constantly, or soak it in boiling water in a pot for a maximum of 5 minutes.

During your period, it is enough to rinse the disc with water or neutral pH soap. Remember to rinse it with cold water first to remove blood residue. Only then can you wash it with warm water. Why? Warm water can cause the pigments in the blood to bind more easily to the silicone surface and lead to discoloration.

If there are brown stains on the disc, soak it overnight in hydrogen peroxide.

Is it possible to remove the disk without spilling blood?

Yes! But like with everything: it's a matter of practice, so trust us, you'll learn it over time. It's best to pull the disk by gripping the rim – that way you'll have better control.

Jakie jest ryzyko wystąpienia zespołu wstrząsu toksycznego (TSS)?

The risk of TSS when using a menstrual disc is very low, and lower than with tampons – even with a longer wear time (disc up to 12h vs tampons up to 8h). Why? The disc does not create a suction seal like a cup – it simply forms a tight barrier that does not let air through, which limits the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria responsible for TSS. What's more, the disc collects blood (rather than absorbing it like tampons) and does not cause micro-injuries to the vaginal mucosa (tampons can do this during insertion/removal).

However, remember to follow hygiene rules (always wash your hands before inserting and removing the disc!), and especially regularly empty and rinse the disc, as well as clean it between cycles.

Is there a risk that the blood will "flow backward"?

Just like when using pads or tampons, some blood is always in the vagina before it flows out, but anatomically it is not possible for the blood to return to the uterus.

What is the difference between a menstrual disc and a cup?

The disc differs from the cup primarily in the method of application – the cup stays in the vagina by suction, while the disc rests on an anatomical "shelf." At the same time, the disc has over twice the capacity of the cup (25-30 ml vs 50 ml), and it is also distinguished by the fact that you can have sex with it (you have to remove the cup) and that it partially empties itself (so-called autodumping).

Od what age can I use the disk?

It is best to start using it when the body stops growing. However, this is an individual moment, so it is best to consult with a gynecologist.

Can long nails be an obstacle?

Using a disc requires practice – whether the nails are short or long. The most important thing is not to pierce the disc with your nail.

What sports can I practice with a disc?

Every sport! The disc works great at the pool, as well as at the gym, in yoga, dancing, or pole dance. You can easily run a marathon with it or go for an intense strength workout.

Can I swim with a disc?

Yes, absolutely! The disc creates a barrier and doesn't absorb water, but blocks it instead. Additionally, it doesn't absorb blood—it simply collects it—so you can wear it for up to 12 hours without needing to run to the bathroom after every swim.

Czy znacie jakieś badania/opinie fizjoterapeutów_tek uroginekologicznych na temat dysków?

Some urogynecological physiotherapists indicate that discs are generally more friendly to the pelvic floor than cups, but the final decision should take into account the individual situation and condition of the pelvic floor muscles.

A menstrual disc does not work by suction (unlike a cup), which is beneficial for people with weakened pelvic floors. Cups create a vacuum that can further strain the pelvic floor muscles. If you have a slightly weakened pelvic floor, the disc should not be a problem. However, if there are significant prolapses or muscle tensions, the disc may sit differently than in standard anatomy. Therefore, it is worth first improving pelvic floor muscle tone through exercises before using the disc.

Disc application

Is the disk not too big or too hard?

The disc has a capacity of 50 ml, but it is made of soft, medical-grade silicone with high flexibility and, when folded, simply resembles a long tampon. It seems large, but it will easily pass through a ring size 8.

Can the disk go in too deep?

Anatomically, this is not possible – the vagina is closed.

Czy będę czuła dysk podczas noszenia?

A properly applied disc should not be noticeable – it stays in the body, resting on the anatomical "shelf" created by the pubic bone. You may feel the tail and can tuck it in if it bothers you.

Where do we place the disk?

The disc is placed in the vaginal vault, where it will surround the cervix and collect blood like a “cup.” It is important to push the disc onto the anatomical shelf formed by the pubic bone after placement.

How to fold a disk for insertion?

Insertion will be easiest when you tuck in the basin of the disc and fold the disc so that it resembles a long tampon. Yes, we fold the disc completely differently than a cup!

Should the disk fully unfold?

The disc may be wrinkled after insertion – this is normal, as it adapts to your anatomy and the space it finds in the vaginal vault. However, if you feel that it is folded almost as it was during insertion, it may indicate that it is still too shallow (it is probably located in the vaginal canal, where there simply isn't enough room to unfold).

Should the tail stick out?

It depends! If the disc doesn't leak, you don't feel it inside you, and the tail still sticks out, then everything is okay (you might just have a shorter vaginal canal). You can tuck the tail in so it doesn't bother you.

If, on the other hand, something is wrong – the disc leaks or causes discomfort – the protruding tail may indicate that the disc has been placed too shallowly.

Is there a risk that I won't be able to remove the drive?

The disc has been designed to make it easier for you to remove it – this is exactly what the tab and the special indentation under the rim are for. We recommend not cutting off the tab unless you are sure you can remove the disc using only the rim.

Is there a way I can check if I installed the disc correctly?

Yes! After inserting the disc, try to feel the cervix through the disc cup with your fingers. What should it feel like? As if you were touching your nose – if so, it means the disc is properly hugging the cervix and everything is in place.

Where is the cervix? I don't feel it during the confidence test.

The cervix is located at the top of the vaginal vault and should feel like the tip of your nose. If you can't find it through the cup of the disc during the confidence test, try squatting and feeling for the cervix with your finger before application. This will help you understand where it actually is and make it easier to imagine exactly where the disc should be placed and what to look for after applying it.

Usage

I have never used a cup – can I go straight to the disc?

Absolutely. The Bestie disk is flexible and easy to use, making it suitable for anyone who is just starting their journey with alternative menstrual products.

Can I use a diaphragm if I am a virgin?

This is a very individual matter, depending on the hymen. If in your case there are only trace amounts of hymen, applying the disc should not be a problem. If there is more of it, it will block the disc's path, which may cause you discomfort. What is best to do? Don't test on your own, but consult a specialist.

Can I use the diaphragm if I have an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted?

You can definitely use the disc if you have an intrauterine device (IUD) because they are placed in two different anatomical locations. The IUD is located in the uterine cavity, while the disc is placed in the vaginal fornix, where it collects menstrual blood.

However, we have a few important tips for you:

  1. Wait 1-2 cycles after inserting the IUD before you start using the disc – your uterus will appreciate the time to adapt.
  2. Our disc has a specially designed tail that makes removal easier without the risk of pulling on the IUD strings.
  3. If the IUD strings are visible, remove the disc carefully to avoid accidentally pulling on them.

And remember – if you have any doubts, it’s always worth consulting your gynecologist.

I have recurring infections – is this a contraindication for using the disc?

It is best to first treat the infection, and only then decide to use the disk.

Jak skorzystać z dysku w publicznej toalecie bez zlewu w kabinie?

It is best to take a bottle of water or pH-neutral wet wipes with you and rinse or clean the disc in the cabin. Also, remember to wash your hands before entering the restroom.

Anatomical and physiological problems

I have a very short cervix – will the disc be suitable for me?

We designed the Bestie menstrual disc to fit about 95% of adults. However, if you have a very low cervix (below 3 cm), the disc might not be the ideal solution for you.

The cervix is on average 3-5 cm long, and the vaginal canal is 7-10 cm, extending up to 12-15 cm during arousal. The cervix is located inside the vagina – but not entirely, only its external opening, so there is space to place the disc right under the cervix. At the same time, the position of the cervix can change depending on the phase of the cycle (sometimes higher, sometimes lower, especially influenced by hormones during ovulation).

However, even with a short cervix, you can try the disc – thanks to the tail feature, which you can roll up, shorten, or even cut off. This way, it can be adjusted to different vaginal canal lengths.

What about people with a retroverted uterus? Is a retroverted uterus a contraindication? Will the disc fit there or will it be just as uncomfortable as tampons?

In the case of a retroverted uterus, a menstrual disc may be a more comfortable solution than tampons. In retroversion, the uterus rests against the rectum - instead of "lying" on the bladder - but the cervix is in a position fairly similar to anteversion. Retroversion is therefore not a contraindication for using a disc, but you need to remember to push it as far back as possible, towards the tailbone – to ensure it fully covers the cervix.

The disc should not cause problems because:

  1. It does not have a suction function (like cups), which is often a source of discomfort.
  2. It is placed in the vaginal fornix, where it adapts to the anatomy.
  3. It is made of soft, flexible silicone.

Retroversion itself rarely causes any discomfort, as it is simply an anatomical variant (like crooked nasal septums or different ear shapes). Discomfort is more likely caused by tense ligaments than by the retroversion itself.

So if you have problems with tampons, it’s worth considering whether you are using the right tampon size, inserting the tampon correctly, and whether you have additional pelvic floor tension (in which case a urogynecological physiotherapist can help).

What about retroflexed uterus?

With a retroflexed uterus , the entire uterus changes position, and then a situation may occur where the disc will not fit perfectly.

Wearing the disk hurts me a lot, I have to contort myself to place it properly, and when I need to pee, the disk presses on the urethra. Am I doing something wrong or am I in the 5% for whom the disk is not suitable?

Discomfort while wearing the disc may indicate that:

  • it is inserted too shallowly or is too large - vaginas come in various sizes and widths, and you may have a shorter vaginal canal,
  • you have a rare silicone allergy - check if you have had any symptoms before,
  • you may have pelvic floor tension - if you insert tampons without discomfort but have problems with the disc, this may suggest that the disc is too stiff for your anatomy or placed in a way that presses on sensitive areas.

If you have painful periods and feel nauseous, it is worth consulting a gynecologist to rule out endometriosis or ovarian cysts.

Sex while wearing a disc

Can a partner feel the disc when it's inserted?

From the partner's perspective, the disc is practically unnoticeable – this is because it is placed deep inside the vagina. The flexible material of the disc does not cause discomfort, and its seal ensures that blood does not leak during intercourse. This way, both of you can forget about stained bodies and sheets!

Where is the room for penetration if I feel the disc near the entrance of the vagina?

During arousal, the vaginal canal lengthens and widens, creating more space for penetration.

Difficulties in use

I have a problem applying the disc – what should I do in this situation?

First of all – don’t give up on using the disc right away, it takes some practice! Use the instructional video available on our website (you can find the QR code on the packaging). However, if you need more support, have any questions, or feel like you’re doing something wrong, feel free to write to us on IG @hi.bestie.pl or by email hello@hibestie.pl. We will always respond and help!

What should I do if I’m having trouble removing the disc?

First of all, try to relax. Stress can cause the pelvic floor muscles to tense up, which can make removing the disc more difficult.

It may also help to gently bear down, as if you were having a bowel movement. This movement increases pressure in the abdominal cavity and naturally moves the disc lower, making it easier to reach, grasp, and remove.

Remember — the disc cannot “disappear” inside your body or get lost.

My disc eaks during movement – is this normal?

No, the disc should not leak during your daily activities. If it does, make sure it is applied correctly: push the disc as far back as possible, towards the tailbone, and hook the disc's rim onto the “anatomical shelf.” If that doesn't help, it's best to contact a specialist – the problem may lie in weakened pelvic floor muscles.

I feel pressure on the urethra when using the disc and have trouble urinating – what can I do?

The disc may press on the urethra in some people if:

  • it is incorrectly inserted - too shallow or improperly positioned in the vaginal vault,
  • the pelvic floor muscles or lower abdomen are too tense or there is tension in the pelvic ligament area,
  • the anatomy of your vagina causes the disc to press on the urethra.

What can you do? If you feel the disc pressing on your urethra or making urination difficult, try primarily to push it as far back as possible, towards the tailbone. When removing the disc, check if the discomfort subsides - if it does, the problem lies in the placement of the disc.

Are urination problems persisting? We recommend a visit to a urogynecological physiotherapist to assess pelvic floor tension. You may also consider a different disc size (although Bestie has a universal size) and check if you might have a silicone allergy (this is rare but does occur).

When I pee or poop, my disc leaks – what does this indicate?

Leakage during bowel movements is called autodumping, which means partial emptying of the disc. Our muscles work in such a way that the disc gently slides out and partially empties on its own. However, this is nothing unnatural – after using the toilet, you just need to push the disc back onto the anatomical "shelf."

Autodumping should not occur during urination. Emptying of the disc may indicate that you are tensing your muscles during this activity – and urination should be done in a relaxed state.

When urinating, a lighter discharge comes out, like pink blood – what is it?

Lighter discharge may indicate blood mixed with natural vaginal discharge, giving a pinkish color. Don't worry, this is a normal phenomenon, especially at the beginning or end of your period.

If blood flows during urination, it may mean that:

  1. The disc is improperly positioned - it may not be correctly placed in the vaginal fornix or it may have shifted.
  2. Auto-dumping occurs – a normal feature of menstrual discs, where during muscle contraction (e.g., while urinating) the disc partially empties. Some people use this intentionally to partially empty the disc without removing it.

If you regularly experience leakage issues, make sure the disc is properly inserted (it should rest on the "anatomical shelf" in the vaginal fornix) and not overfilled. Additionally, when urinating, try to breathe diaphragmatically and fully relax your pelvic floor muscles (do not strain). If the disc shifts or falls out, it may mean it is not well suited to your anatomy.

Tampony probiotyczne Bestie

How to use tampons?

You use Bestie tampons just like any other – wash your hands before use, remove the tampon from its packaging, and check that the string is properly attached. Then assume a comfortable position (e.g., squat, sit, or raise one leg) and insert the tampon into your vagina with your index finger until you can no longer feel it. Wash your hands again after application. To remove the tampon, gently pull the string.

Why were these specific bacteria found in the tampons?

Vaginal microflora varies depending on the region of the world. The bacteria naturally occurring in women in Poland may be different from, for example, those in women living in Australia or South America. Therefore, Bestie probiotic tampons contain strains of lactic acid bacteria that naturally occur in the vaginas of Polish women: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus plantarum. Thanks to this, probiotics support the natural protective mechanisms of intimate areas and help maintain their proper, acidic pH.

Why choose probiotic tampons?

It's worth choosing Bestie probiotic tampons because they provide double support during your period. While using the tampon, probiotics are released that support the natural protective mechanisms of intimate areas and help maintain their physiological balance. This way, during menstruation, you can take care not only of protection but also of your vaginal microflora.

Can I use a tampon while swimming in a pool?

Yes, Bestie tampons can be used while swimming. What's more, they are designed to adapt to your body and ensure comfort during any physical activity. So, try them not only in the pool but also at the gym or dance classes!

What is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) while wearing tampons?

The risk of TSS when using probiotic tampons is very low. However, it is a serious bacterial infection, so remember to follow proper hygiene practices. Always wash your hands before inserting and removing a tampon! Do not use a tampon for longer than 6 hours.

How often should I change my tampon?

Tampons should be changed every 4–6 hours (also at night) and never used for longer than 6 hours. Leaving a tampon in the vagina for too long increases the risk of TSS.

How long can tampons be stored after opening the package?

Tampons should be used within 6 months of opening the package.

Do you need to talk?

Are you wondering if the disc is right for you? Do you already have a disc but also have doubts about whether you are using it correctly? Or maybe you want to collaborate with us? Contact us through the contact form, and we will respond as quickly as possible!

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