Contraception - diaphragms

What is a diaphragm?#

A diaphragm is a soft, shallow cup, usually made of silicone, that fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix (the entrance to the uterus, or womb). It works as a barrier, stopping sperm from passing through the cervix to reach and fertilize an egg. Some diaphragms come in one size.

A diaphragm is used together with a special gel. The diaphragm and gel work together as a barrier, and any sperm left in the vagina die off quickly.

A diaphragm is a non-hormonal barrier method of contraception. Other barrier methods include external (male) and internal (female) condoms. Note that diaphragms do not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How effective are diaphragms?#

If used correctly every time you have sex, diaphragms are about 86% effective at preventing pregnancy. If used incorrectly, they may be only about 82% effective.

A diaphragm may not work if it is:

• not inserted correctly
• used without the gel
• taken out less than 6 hours after sex
• torn or past its use-by date

How to use a diaphragm#

• Place about a teaspoon of gel in the cup of the diaphragm.
• Insert the diaphragm into your vagina so it covers the cervix. You can do this up to 2 hours before having sex.
• Leave it in place for at least 6 hours after sex.
• Do not leave it in for longer than 24 hours.

A diaphragm should be checked carefully for holes before use and usually lasts around 2 years.

Before using a diaphragm for the first time, you can ask a doctor or nurse to check that it fits well and that you are inserting it correctly. Diaphragms are the wrong shape for about one in seven women, and a doctor or nurse can advise on inserting it comfortably.

Advantages#

• You can insert a diaphragm hours before having sex.
• It has little or no side effects.
• You can buy it without a prescription.
• It is an option for people who do not want to use hormonal contraception.

Possible side effects#

For a small number of users, possible side effects include:

• irritation of the vagina or penis
• an increased risk of bladder infection (cystitis)
• rarely, toxic shock syndrome

When a diaphragm may not be suitable#

A diaphragm might not be a good option if you:

• are prone to bladder infections
• gave birth 6 weeks ago or less, because the size you need may change as the uterus returns to its normal size
• are unable to feel whether your cervix is correctly covered

Usually you should wait about 6 weeks after having a baby before starting to use a diaphragm. Speak to a doctor or nurse for advice.

If you forget to use a diaphragm#

If you forget to use your diaphragm, you may need emergency contraception. If you become pregnant while using a diaphragm, it is safe either to continue the pregnancy (and stop using the diaphragm) or to have an abortion.

Where to get diaphragms#

You can buy a diaphragm from some pharmacies, sexual and reproductive health clinics, family planning services, and online.

Where to get help#