A universal menstrual disc applicator has finally hit the market. Pixie Cup, an Amazon-centered brand, now offers their own version, so I decided to purchase it and see how it performs. For a detailed breakdown, you can watch my full video review below or keep reading for my thoughts on the Pixie Disc Applicator.
Pixie Disc Applicator Details and Dimensions
- Universal – Works with all menstrual discs
- Made of Mediprene, an antibacterial material
- Soft applicator tip
- Storage case included
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Pixie Disc Applicator – Overview of Features
Universal Menstrual Disc Applicator. The Pixie Disc Applicator fits most menstrual disc brands and sizes sold in the US and worldwide. Its open triangular barrel design holds folded one-size menstrual discs and small or medium sizes. Some brands, like Nixit, Flex Disc Reusable, Ziggy, Diva Disc, and Lumma Disc, fit better inside the barrel. It also works with the Pixie Disc.
Discs with thicker rims, such as Hello Disc, Cora Perfect Fit, and Saalt Disc Regular, require more force to push into the barrel.
Measurements and size. The Pixie Disc Applicator is larger than a Regular or Super tampon applicator and looks bulky.
At its widest point the Pixie Disc applicator is 26.6 mm, and 19.5 mm from the tip of the triangle to the base. The unique shape does offset some of the size. The largest menstrual cup applicator measures in at 30 mm at the tip.
While it’s not the largest applicator available, its size may feel intimidating. Applying lubricant to the exterior can help make insertion more comfortable. Comfort levels will vary for each person when using this product or other reusable insertable items.
Flexible Tip – The tip of the Pixie Disc Applicator is flexible, an impressive bit of manufacturing I must admit. The flexible tip is fused with the hard plastic end of the barrel.
Locking Storage Case. The 2 applicator pieces snap together and those pieces then snap into a storage and carrying case. This case has a hole to prevent mildew or mold but I would personally let the product pieces fully dry before storing away in the case.
How Pixie Disc Applicator Compares to Other Applicators
At the time of this article, Pixie Disc is the only menstrual disc applicator available to purchase in the US.
The Kickstarter-funded brand Fillow announced its menstrual disc and applicator in 2023. The product, initially expected to ship that year, is now scheduled for release in 2025. The Fillow Disc Applicator pairs specifically with the Fillow Disc, and its narrow design likely won’t fit most other disc brands.
Femieko Disc Applicator from Germany. Limited media coverage exists for this product, which features a minimalist design with one open tube nested inside another. I find this design appealing and have one on order. Since it isn’t available in the US, I arranged to have it shipped to a friend first.
Check out our Menstrual Cup Applicator Video for a full look at menstrual cup applicator brands and how they compare.
How to Use Load the Pixie Disc Applicator With Any Menstrual Disc
- Wash the Applicator: Clean it with cup-safe soap and water before use. Avoid boiling or steaming.
- Apply Lubricant: Generously coat the inside of the open barrel with water-based lubricant. Recommended brands include Sliquid H2.0, La Nua, Dame Aloe, and Nixit.
- Load the Disc: Fold the menstrual disc in half and place it in the barrel. Position the top rim against the flat side of the triangle, with any notches or removal stems entering last.
- Insert the Pusher: Push the pusher into the barrel until it clicks and locks. It’s okay if the disc extends slightly beyond the tip.
How to Insert Your Menstrual Disc Using the Pixie Disc Applicator
- Position the Applicator: Place the tip of the applicator at the vaginal opening and angle it towards your back. Insert just enough of the barrel, usually less than halfway.
- Release the Disc: Hold the barrel steady and slowly push the plunger until the pusher is fully inside and the disc is released.
- Check Placement: Remove the applicator. If needed, use a finger to ensure the disc’s rim is securely positioned behind the pubic bone.
- Clean and Dry: Wash all parts of the applicator and let them air dry on your Spot drying rack.
Related Resource: Menstrual Disc Insertion Guide
Why Use a Menstrual Disc Applicator?
There are a few reasons you might need or want a menstrual disc applicator.
- Easier access for short arms, fuller midsections, or limited flexibility.
- Overcomes challenges with disabilities, reduced hand strength, or dexterity issues.
- Helps keep the disc folded during insertion.
- Avoids sensory discomfort from finger insertion.
- Solves problems with a high cervix or short fingers unable to reach properly.
- Prevents interference from long or sharp fingernails.
Cups and discs have long been out of reach for some users, but applicators now help overcome many barriers to manual insertion. While not a perfect solution for every challenge, they are a valuable tool for improving accessibility.
Choose a menstrual disc with a design that ensures easy removal. Look for options with long stems like Lumma Disc or Pixie Disc, looped removal tabs like Hello Disc, or pull loops like Diva Disc.
Menstrual discs don’t rely on vacuum suction. You can remove them by pulling the stem or loop. When paired with an applicator, these features make discs a more accessible option for many users.
However, disc removal always requires finger insertion. Even with loops or stems, you’ll need to reach in to remove the disc. Getting comfortable with your body is essential. If possible, hand insertion remains the most reliable method. Touch allows you to ensure the disc is positioned correctly and not inserted too far to reach.
My Experience with the Pixie Disc Applicator
I prefer inserting cups and discs by hand for many reasons, and this bias influences my reviews and videos about applicators. My experience with applicators may not be as helpful as reviews from those who rely on them. Thankfully, other voices in this space share their perspectives. I approach this as an educator and advocate for reusable period options. While applicators aren’t my personal preference, I appreciate brands working to improve accessibility.
The Good:
– Inserting my disc of choice into the barrel required some effort, but inserting it into my body was simple.
– I didn’t check the placement after deploying the disc, but it stayed in place, collecting blood as it should. Â
– The applicator effectively positioned the disc without major leaks, aside from minor wiping leaks.
The applicator did what it needed to do – the disc went where it needed to go and it didn’t leak outside of some very minor wiping leaks.
The Bad:
– I don’t enjoy using an applicator. The process feels clunky and takes more time than hand insertion. Â
– You need to apply lubricant, load the disc into the applicator, insert it, and then clean the parts afterward. Â
– Not having direct contact with the disc felt unsettling, though it worked in the end.
– The barrel’s grip is inadequate. With lubricant and water involved, the tiny raised ridge wasn’t enough. I sometimes used both hands or relied on my nails for grip.
– The applicator likely pushed the disc higher than I would by hand, leading to a stressful 10-minute removal process.
– Using an applicator in public would complicate an already tricky process.Â
– Remebering to bring it into the shower or a different bathroom with you in the case of a change of scenery is an annoyance.
Overall
The Pixie Disc Applicator works as intended and offers a valuable solution for those who need it. While I can nitpick certain aspects, it gets the job done. With practice, you can learn how far to insert the tip for a leak-free experience.
Where to Buy Pixie Disc Applicator
You can purchase the Pixie Disc Applicator on Amazon.
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