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Diaphragms are dome-shaped devices (of either latex or silicone) that fit into the vagina and over the cervix. Cervical caps are smaller and need to be put directly onto the cervix (made of silicone).
No hormones
No effect on mood
No protection against STIs
Only people involved in the sexual activity might see it
Periods will stay the same
Use every time you have sex and keep in for six hours after
Skin will stay the same
92-96% effective when used without mistakes
Can get them for free from some sexual health services. You can start using them straight away after a consultation with a healthcare professional who will check you know how to use them correctly.
Check before each use to make sure it’s not damaged and still fits correctly
Both the diaphragm and the cap work by stopping sperm from entering the womb by covering the cervix. You also need to use a spermicide with the diaphragm/cap. Spermicide gel contains chemicals that kill sperm.
You only need to use diaphragms and caps when you have sex, and you must leave then in for at least six hours afterwards.
Diaphragms and caps must be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse on the first occasion. They may not be available at your local clinic, so it is best to contact the clinic to check first.
You can get diaphragms and caps from Brook services, contraception clinics, GUM clinics and some GP surgeries.
Contraception and sexual health services such as Brook are free and confidential, including for people under the age of 16. Health professionals work to strict guidelines and won’t tell anyone else about your visit unless they believe you’re at serious risk of immediate harm. Find out more about Brook’s confidentiality policy.
The most common diaphragm available will fit 80% of people who try it, and does not need to be fitted by a doctor or nurse. But if you are unsure, a doctor or nurse can teach you how to use it and ensure it is the right fit for you.
When you go to get the diaphragm or cap, an appointment will typically include:
Initially you may be fitted with a temporary ‘practice’ diaphragm or cap so that you can learn how to use it and see how it feels. During this time you will not be protected from pregnancy so will need to use additional contraception such as condoms. When you go back you should wear the diaphragm or cap so that the doctor or nurse can check it is the right size.
Once you have had the diaphragm or cap fitted, you will only need to go back to the doctor or nurse to replace it (most people can use the same one for a year).
You may need to get a different size diaphragm or cap fitted if you gain or lose more than 3kg (7lb) in weight, or if you have a baby, miscarriage or abortion.
You can put the diaphragm in before you have sex, but if you put it in more than three hours before you will need to use extra spermicide. You should avoid using diaphragms or caps during your period because of the possible risk of toxic shock syndrome.
Diaphragms and caps must be left in for at least 6 hours after sex.
You can leave it for longer, but not for more than:
You can get an IUS fitted after a birth, abortion or miscarriage but when you can get it fitted does vary.
You will need to wait six weeks after the birth before using a cap or diaphragm to allow time for your cervix to return to its normal size. As you can get pregnant in as little as 3 weeks after giving birth, you should use alternative contraception in the meantime.
If you were using a cap/diaphragm before pregnancy, you should see a nurse or doctor to check it is still the right size for you.
You can use a diaphragm or cap anytime after an abortion or miscarriage that was under 13 weeks. If it was 13 weeks or over, you should wait six weeks before using them. Since you can get pregnant in as little as 2 weeks after an abortion or miscarriage, you should use another form of contraception in the meantime.
If you were using a cap/diaphragm before, you should see a nurse or doctor to check it is still the right size for you.
Speak to your midwife, GP, or nure to check if this method is right for you.
DOS
DON’TS
You should replace your diaphragm every two years or sooner if you’ve lost or gained weight (10 pounds or more), given birth or had a miscarriage or abortion or if you notice anything different or wrong with your diaphragm or cap.
Yes. It should be left in for a minimum of 6 hours after sex, and leaving it for a little longer is not usually a problem. However, you should not leave it in for longer than 24 hours after sex.
A diaphragm or cap should not usually be felt during sex by the wearer, however your partner may notice it but it shouldn’t make sex feel uncomfortable or less enjoyable. If it feels uncomfortable for either partner or seems to be moving, it may not be positioned correctly and should be checked before relying on it for contraception.
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