Sprxng

Short Solution Description: 

Sprxng is a reusable menstrual disc that is made from medical-grade silicone. Typically, a menstrual disc is 70mm in diameter. Sprxng, on the other hand, is 12mm in diameter at the point of insertion. Sprxng worked with origami artists to develop a pre-creased design for their disc, which has enabled Sprxng to start off six times smaller at the point of insertion. Collapsing the built-in applicator stem causes Sprxng to open from 12mm to its disc diameter of 70mm, and position itself in the vaginal fornix, guaranteeing an easy application.

Unlike existing menstrual cups and discs, Sprxng has a drainage mechanism that allows the disc to be drained while it is inside the body. In addition to being the applicator, the stem also facilitates the drainage of the disc through a valve at the base of the stem.

The Sprxng team worked with obstetrician-gynecologists at the Yale School of Medicine to develop a patent-pending therapy for menstrual pains. The therapeutic technology works by making use of negative pressures created by the device when a bulb is compressed at the base of the stem.

The Problem:

Disposable menstrual products generate more than 200,000 metric tons of waste annually. Reusable menstrual cups and discs are a sustainable alternative. However, people aren’t using these products today because they are intimidating and difficult to insert. There is an art to making sure they are placed correctly and the folding techniques involved are difficult for any user, especially menstruators with disabilities. Furthermore, users find it inconvenient to remove the device to empty it, rinse it, and reinsert it, especially when this is done in a public bathroom. Sprxng solves these problems through its pre-creased design, built-in applicator, and drainage mechanism.

Menstrual pains are the leading cause of recurrent school and work absenteeism among women. This led us to take Sprxng further by asking ourselves the question, What if the menstrual product supplied medication as well? Sprxng will be the first menstrual product that includes a tested therapy for menstrual pains.

Sprxng was designed to fit in the palm of your hand, making it a discreet and more culturally acceptable menstrual product. We tested and discovered that an aesthetically pleasing product could be an effective way of taking a stand against menstrual stigma.

What barriers currently exist for you to accomplish your goals in the next year? 

Sprxng faces a significant cultural barrier with invasive menstrual products, as well as research and development opportunities.