We were in a meeting with the team from Hello Period. And my mind was blown.
I didn’t think about the impact of using tampons, not just on the environment, but on my body. Like most of us, I thought I was doing okay with my go-to brand from the supermarket aisle. But then we heard about the metals. The plasticisers. The hidden chemicals. And we thought, “Well, that’s bloody rude.”
Let’s break it down. A 2024 international study tested 30 tampon brands and found lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury (and a few others we definitely didn’t order) in every single tampon tested. Organic or not. These nasties might be in small amounts, but with how absorbent your vaginal lining is, there’s no such thing as “just a little” exposure when it comes to monthly use over decades. Plus, some tampons are loaded with synthetic fragrances and made with polyester, polypropylene, and other plastics. No thanks.
So we got curious about alternatives. Enter: Period Cups and Discs.
These reusable beauties aren’t just about reducing waste (though they do that beautifully). They also help reduce exposure to questionable chemicals and metals. They’re made from medical-grade silicone, which is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and built to last, like you.
But here's the plot twist no one tells you until you're knee-deep in TikToks and Reddit threads: your cervix height matters. Yup, you’ve got to get a little up close and personal with your anatomy to find the right fit. So grab a ruler, hop in the shower, and let’s get scientific (and slightly acrobatic).
Measuring Your Cervix – The Lowdown
🧼 Step 1: Wash your hands. Obviously.
📏 Step 2: Slide a clean finger inside your vagina and feel for your cervix. It’ll feel like a rounded button.
🗺️ Step 3: Note how far your finger goes in before touching it. That’s your height:
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Low Cervix (44mm or less): You might feel it just inside. Go for a shorter cup or a disc that sits lower.
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Average Cervix (45-55mm): You’ve got options, lucky you!
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High Cervix (55mm+): Can’t find it? Welcome to the High Cervix Club. Look for longer cups or specialised options.
Not sure where you land? Take a sizing quiz from Hello Period or ask the Hey Sister! community, we love a good cervix convo.
Disc vs Cup: What’s the Difference?
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Cup: Sits low in the vaginal canal and forms a seal. Can last up to 12 hours. Great for average to high cervix heights.
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Disc: Sits higher up behind the pubic bone. Doesn’t rely on suction, which some people prefer. Fab for sex-on-your-period lovers (yes, really, zero mess).
No shame in trying both. This is about what feels right for you.
Why This Matters for Your Whole-Body Wellness
Swapping tampons for cups or discs isn’t just about going eco. It’s about making choices that support your body and your lifestyle. At Hey Sister!, we’re all about easing the load, period pain, gut challenges, anxiety, and now? Even your period care products. Our natural wellness products like Khapregesic® help you manage it all, drug-free.
And when you pair them with period care that doesn’t involve mystery metals? Chef’s kiss.
Let’s Talk About It
Tried a cup and hated it? Love your disc like it’s your second child? Found your cervix and gave it a high five? We want to hear it all. Join the conversation with our Hey Sister! community, because we believe no one should have to navigate their cycle solo.
