A contraceptive diaphragm is a circular dome made of thin, soft latex (rubber) or silicone. You put it into the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy. Find out how it works and where you can get it.
A woman can get pregnant if a man’s sperm reaches one of her eggs (ova). Contraception tries to stop this happening by keeping the egg and sperm apart or by stopping egg production. One method of contraception is the diaphragm.
How do diaphragms work?
A diaphragm is inserted into the vagina before sex, and it covers the cervix so that sperm can't get into the womb. You need to use spermicide with it(spermicides kill sperm). The diaphragm must be left in place for at least six hours after sex. After that time you take out the diaphragm and wash it. They're reuseable.
Diaphragms come in different sizes. You must be fitted for the correct size by a trained doctor or nurse.
How effective are diaphragms?
If used correctly with spermicide, diaphragms are 92-96% effective. This means that between four and eight women out of every 100 who use a diaphragm as a contraceptive will become pregnant in a year.
Added benefits?
- There are no serious health risks, and you only have to think about it when you have sex.
- You can put them in several hours before you have sex.
What else should I know?
- It can take time to learn how to use them.
- Some women develop cystitis (a bladder infection) when they use diaphragms. Your doctor or nurse can check the size (switching to a smaller size may help).
- If you lose or gain more than 3kg (7lbs) in weight, or have a baby, miscarriage or abortion, you may need to be fitted with a new diaphragm.
By using condoms as well as a diaphragm, you'll help to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Further information
Find out about the 15 methods of contraception
Which method of contraception suits me?
When can I get pregnant?
Find sexual health services, including contraceptive clinics, near you.
