The Flex Company explains how to use the Flex Menstrual Disc, as well as everything you need to know about reusable discs.

You can get through your period with a bit more ease if you use the menstrual products you have.When we hear of something different, we like to take a closer look and see if it works for us.We are taking a look at the Flex Disc, which the company says can reduce menstrual pain.We need to know more about the reduction of period pain when we hear about it.To learn more about the Flex disc, and to decide if you want to try it, keep reading.You should always speak to your gynecologist if you have any questions, because doctors know best.

The Flex Disc is a single-use menstrual disc that is meant to collect blood and reduce periods.It sits just beyond the vaginal canal.

According to their website, the disc can be worn for up to 12 hours (including during activities), reduces irritation and dryness, and isn't linked to toxic shock syndrome.

There are a few small drawbacks to the Flex disc.

According to Basak, the Flex disc can be used in most cases, and is often recommended by gynecologists for people with a number of conditions.

There are a few instances where it isn't a good idea.The disc should not be used by women with a double cervix, vaginal sputum, or history of toxic shock syndrome.She wouldn't recommend it for women who get a lot of infections.

Flex says it reduces periods for a couple of reasons.Ally Basak, VP Brand Marketing at Flex, says that the disc is made of a medical grade material that doesn't have an inflammatory effect on the vagina or surrounding tissues.

Basak says that the Flex disc sits at the top of the vaginal fornix, where the vagina is at its widest, compared to the low- to mid-portion of a tampon.Basak says that some of the cramping women experience is due to the tampon's expansion with fluid and blood.

Basak says that the lower third of the vagina contains more sensitive nerves than the upper portion.Flex in the upper vagina can't be felt due to the differences in innervation and shape of the products.

The gynecologists we spoke to don't think the Flex disc reduces cramps.When the flow goes into the vagina, it arises in the uterus, from prostaglandin release, and can get worse as the blood flows through the cervical opening, which can lead to large clot formation.

Gersh agrees that the method that is used to collect menstrual blood does not have anything to do with cramp alleviation.If it works for you, you should use it.She says the benefit is likely due to the placebo effect.

The design is similar to a contraceptive device used by many women for decades, but uncommonly used since the advent of modern contraception.

The disc is easy to use.After washing your hands, all you need to do is pinch it in half and place it behind your pubic bone.You can remove the disc by sliding it.The finger is under the front edge.You can throw it in the trash.

The Flex disc is safe to use, or at least as safe as other menstrual products, according to both gynecologists we spoke with.Alterations of the vaginal microbiome and toxic shock syndrome are likely to happen, according to Gersh.

It is fine to have sex while wearing the Flex disc.On its website, the company states that the product allows for mess-free period sex.Wondering how that is possible?Basak tells us that because menstrual discs sit at the vaginal fornix, blood can't get into the canal during sex.She says most customers don't feel the disc while they're having sex.

Athletes and gym-goers will be happy to know that the Flex disc can be used for workouts.Basak says that many professional athletes and weekend warriors are their most passionate customers.With many menstrual products, there is always the chance of some leaking, whether you are working out or not.

The Flex disc is a decent option when it comes to feminine hygiene, especially if you are looking for something different from a tampon, and you will have to try it out to settle the debate on that one.