These are a type of barrier method and may come in different shapes and sizes. They fit inside your vagina and cover your cervix (entrance to the uterus – womb). Vaginal diaphragms are circular domes made of thin, soft latex (rubber) or silicone with a flexible rim. There is new diaphragm called ‘Caya’ which fits most women and is easy to use.
To be effective, diaphragms should be used with a spermicide which is a gel that kills sperm.
Please explore the following sections for more information:
If 100 sexually active women don’t use any contraception, 80 to 90 will become pregnant in a year.
If used according to instructions, are 92–96 per cent effective when used with spermicide. This means that between four and eight women in 100 will get pregnant in a year.
The flexible latex or silicone device, used with spermicide, is put into the vagina to cover the cervix. This stops sperm from entering the uterus and meeting an egg.
- Can be put in any time before sex.
- You only have to use it when you have sex.
- No serious health risks.
- No effects on your natural menstrual cycle as they are hormone free.
- Extra spermicide is needed if you have sex again.
- Some people can be sensitive to spermicide.
- May take time to learn how to use correctly.
- Women must be comfortable with inserting and removing it.
- Needs to be left in place for at least six hours, after the last episode of sex.
- Information on how to use Caya.