Menstrual discs may be better for heavy periods than pads or tampons – study

Menstrual disc (bottom) and menstrual cups. Photograph: LeviaZ/Getty Images

The first study to compare the absorption of period products using human blood suggests diaphragm-shaped menstrual discs may be better than traditional pads or tampons for dealing with heavy monthly blood flow.

The findings could also help doctors better assess whether heavy menstrual bleeding could be a sign of underlying health problems, such as a bleeding disorder or fibroids.