Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a soft, silicone dome that covers the cervix. So it stops sperm from entering the uterus.
How does it work?
- You insert the diaphragm into your vagina, no more than 2 hours before you have sex.
- First, you put some spermicide on the diaphragm. So the egg can’t be fertilised by sperm.
- You can use a diaphragm for 2 years. It doesn’t protect against STIs.
- A diaphragm is slightly less reliable than the pill. That’s because it is only effective if inserted correctly.
How do you use it?
- First, put some spermicide on the diaphragm.
- Insert the diaphragm into your vagina, no more than 2 hours before you have sex.
- Slide the diaphragm in as far as you can, holding it correctly. It covers the cervix like a lid.
- After having sex, leave the diaphragm in for at least 6 hours. The spermicide is still working.
- When you take it out of your vagina after 6 hours, rinse the diaphragm well with lukewarm water to clean it. Now it’s ready to use again.
- Check the diaphragm for any damage as you are rinsing it under the tap.
- Practise inserting your diaphragm a couple of times. Practice makes perfect!
- Aren’t you sure whether it fits properly? Have it checked by your doctor, a gynaecologist or obstetrician, or a doctor at a Sense clinic.
- If you use a lubricant during sex, choose a water-based one. Other types of lubricants could damage the diaphragm.
Where can you get a diaphragm?
You can buy a Caya diaphragm and spermicide yourself at a pharmacy or online. But be aware of this: a Caya is a one-size diaphragm. If you need a different size, ask your doctor, a gynaecologist or obstetrician, or a Sense clinic for advice.
Your period
If you use a diaphragm, you’ll have your period every month. So you keep your normal menstrual cycle.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- You only need to use a diaphragm when you have sex.
- A diaphragm isn’t expensive.
- You can buy one without a prescription.
- You won’t have any side effects from hormones.
- You can’t feel it.
- You still have your period as usual.
- Once you’ve stopped using a diaphragm, you are immediately fertile again.
Disadvantages:
- A diaphragm can be difficult to insert properly.
- A diaphragm is slightly less reliable than other contraceptives. That’s because it is only effective if inserted correctly.
- You have to remember to put it in before having sex.
- You need to put spermicide on the diaphragm before you use it.
- You can’t use it to control your period.
- A diaphragm doesn’t protect against STIs.
- It may cause increased vaginal discharge or some irritation.
Are there any side effects?
A diaphragm has hardly any side effects. It may cause increased vaginal discharge or some irritation.
When do you run the risk of pregnancy?
If you haven’t inserted the diaphragm correctly, you could get pregnant after penis-in-vagina sex. If you aren’t using the diaphragm for penis-in-vagina sex, use a condom. Otherwise you’re not protected against pregnancy.
What do you know about contraception?
What do you know about contraception?
Contraceptive ring
The vaginal ring, or NuvaRing, is a flexible ring that you insert into your vagina. How does it work and where can you get the ring? Read it here on Sense!
Contraceptive implant
A hormonal implant is a small rod placed in the upper arm. How does it work? What’s good (and less good) about it? Where can you get one? Read it here.
Contraceptive injection
A contraceptive injection contains hormones, like the pill. How does it work? What’s good (and less good) about it? Where can you get it? Find out on Sense.
Contraceptive patch
The contraceptive patch is a thin, flexible, skin-coloured plaster. What are its advantages and disadvantages? And where can you get it? Read that here!
Natural methods
Not using contraception? There are natural methods to not get pregnant. Be aware that these methods are less safe than contraceptives.