When your menstrual flow is very heavy, choosing the right protection is crucial for experiencing this time with peace of mind. In such cases, the chosen solution must be effective and highly absorbent. Discover our top 3 best menstrual products for very heavy flow:
- Menstrual discs (disposable or reusable),
- Large menstrual cup,
- Ultra‑absorbent period underwear.
What counts as heavy menstrual flow?
You have a very heavy menstrual flow when you lose more than 80 ml per day or over more than 7 days. That's equivalent to using more than 15 to 20 regular tampons or sanitary pads, or more than 5 ultra‑absorbent tampons per day, depending on the intensity of your flow.
In practical terms, this means:
- The need to change protection every 1 to 2 hours, for several days in a row.
- Frequent leaks, even with properly fitted standard products (cups, pads, tampons, period underwear).
If you recognize yourself in these scenarios, it's likely that you have a very heavy flow. In that case, using a menstrual disc, a large menstrual cup, or ultra‑absorbent period underwear can help prevent leaks and avoid having to change protection every 1 to 2 hours.
Our ranking of menstrual products for very heavy flow
Here is an overview of the best menstrual protections for very heavy flow:
| Criterion | Menstrual Disc | Large Menstrual Cup | Ultra‑Absorbent Period Underwear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Internal | Internal | External |
| Absorption (ml) | 50 to 80 ml | 30 to 50 ml | Up to 50 ml |
| Duration of Use | 8 to 12 h | 6 to 8 h | Up to 12 h |
| Reusable | Yes (depending on model) | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible with IUD | Yes (no suction) | No (suction effect) | Yes (no interference with cervix) |
| Safe for sex | Yes | No | No |
| Comfort | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
1. Menstrual disc: the best option for very heavy flow
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average price (€) | 30 to 45 € |
| Material | Medical‑grade silicone |
| Well‑known brands | Omydisc, Cup&co, Nixit, Intimina |
| Capacity (ml) | 50 to 80 ml |
Why use a menstrual disc for very heavy flow?
The menstrual disc is the ideal solution for very heavy flow because it offers high capacity (up to 80 ml) and some models allow automatic emptying without having to remove it. It can be worn for 8 to 12 hours without replacement. A US study published in BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health in 2023 confirms that menstrual discs are the most effective protection for very heavy flow.
At OmyDisc, we offer two disc sizes: S and M. The M size can hold up to 64 ml, which is approximately equivalent to 5 ultra‑absorbent tampons. You can try it for 90 days to see if it suits your heavy flow.
👉 Discover the OmyDisc menstrual disc
Advantages of the menstrual disc for heavy flow
- Ultra‑absorbent: can hold up to 80 ml, 1.6 times more than a large cup or ultra‑absorbent underwear, or about 6 to 7 ultra‑absorbent tampons.
- Automatic emptying: extends wearing time without needing to remove it.
- Minimal discomfort: placed in the vaginal fornix (low‑sensitivity area), making it barely noticeable, unlike large cups or damp underwear which may cause pressure or moisture.
2. Large menstrual cup: reliable, economical, and eco‑friendly for very heavy flow
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average price (€) | 19 to 37 € |
| Material | Medical‑grade silicone |
| Well‑known brands | Cup&co, Merula, Claricup, Organicup |
| Capacity (ml) | 30 to 50 ml |
Why choose a large menstrual cup for very heavy flow?
The large menstrual cup is a great alternative to the disc for very heavy flow. With a capacity of 30 to 50 ml, it offers effective flow management as long as it is emptied regularly (multiple times per day if needed). Most models, except the Eureka! Cup, do not support automatic emptying.
Advantages
- Flow tracking: you can monitor exactly how much blood you lose.
- High capacity: practical for managing very heavy flow.
Disadvantages
- Requires some practice with insertion and removal.
- Suction effect may be uncomfortable for some users.
- Less suitable with IUD due to risk of dislodgement.
3. Ultra‑absorbent period underwear: a non‑invasive alternative for very heavy flow
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average price (€) | 25 to 45 € |
| Materials | Cotton, absorbent fibers, breathable waterproof layer |
| Well‑known brands | Louloucup, Nana, Smoon, Réjeanne |
| Capacity (ml) | Up to 50 ml |
Why use period underwear for very heavy flow?
Ideal for those who prefer non‑invasive products. It offers up to 12 hours of comfort and reliability, even during very heavy flow. It also works well as a backup to a disc or cup if you're concerned about leaks.
Advantages
- Ultra‑absorbent: 3 to 10 times more effective than a standard pad.
- Easy to use: worn like regular underwear, no discomfort.
Disadvantages
- Less effective than a menstrual disc (80 ml capacity) for very heavy flow.
- Multiple pairs needed to last a full day.
- Harder to change outside of home.
- Cannot precisely measure blood loss.
Can you combine menstrual products for extra protection?
Yes, combining products is even recommended for very heavy flow. For example, many people pair ultra‑absorbent period underwear with a cup or disc, especially on the first days when flow is heaviest.
This combination adds dual-layer security:
- The cup or disc collects most of the flow internally.
- The period underwear serves as external backup in case of overflow.
This setup is often recommended to avoid stains, especially while traveling or at night. Many users start with the combination to become comfortable with discs or cups and prevent leaks.
Menstrual products not recommended for very heavy flow
Standard tampons, pads, and regular period underwear cannot handle the volume of blood lost during very heavy flow. Their low capacity and quick saturation lead to frequent leaks, constant changes, and discomfort.
Standard tampons
A typical tampon absorbs about 5 ml of blood, and a super tampon about 12 ml. With very heavy flow, it can saturate in less than one hour, requiring frequent changes.
- Changes every 30 minutes to 1 hour during intense days.
- High risk of leaks once saturated.
- Uncomfortable after prolonged wear, sometimes causing dryness or irritation.
Classic pads
Even those labeled “ultra‑absorbent” saturate quickly with very heavy flow, needing changes every 1 to 2 hours.
- Quick saturation.
- High risk of staining clothes or bedding.
- Persistent, uncomfortable dampness.
Regular period underwear
With 10 to 30 ml capacity depending on the brand, they're well below needs for very heavy flow exceeding 80 ml per day.
- Requires protection changes several times a day.
- Not effective as primary protection: only suitable as backup when combined with a cup or disc.
Small menstrual cups
With a capacity under 30 ml, these are generally meant for light to medium flow and can fill up quickly during very heavy flow exceeding 80 ml per day.
- Frequent changes needed each day.
- Overflow risk due to rapid fill‑up.
Frequently asked questions about menstrual products for very heavy flow
How often should I change my menstrual protection during very heavy flow?
The change frequency depends mainly on your flow intensity. Never exceed 8 to 12 hours of use for cups and discs. External products like period underwear can be worn a bit longer but should be changed at least every 12 hours for hygiene and safety.
Which menstrual products are best at night during very heavy flow?
Menstrual discs and ultra‑absorbent period underwear are the best choices for overnight protection. They allow for a full night’s uninterrupted sleep without leaks.
Which external protection is most comfortable for very heavy flow?
Ultra‑absorbent period underwear is the most comfortable external option for heavy flow. It offers comfort and high capacity (up to 50 ml), depending on the model. You should, however, change it frequently to avoid leaks.
What menstrual product is best when traveling with very heavy flow?
The disposable menstrual disc is ideal for traveling with a very heavy flow. It has high absorption capacity (up to 80 ml) and automatic emptying allows 8 to 12 hours of wear. Once used, simply discard and insert a new one.
