Join our mailing list to get regular email updates and info on what we're up to!
If you are under 18, please make sure you have your parents’ permission before providing us with any personal details.
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
ImportantDiaphragms and caps cannot be used during your period – you’ll need to use alternative contraception like condoms.
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. Use our find a service tool to find places near you.
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.
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 also 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.
Putting diaphragms in:
Putting caps in:
How to take out diaphragms or caps:
You can leave it for longer, but not for more than the recommended maximum time (including the minimum six hours):
WarningYou must leave all types of diaphragm or cap in place for at least six hours after the last time you had sex.
You can get an IUS fitted after a birth, abortion or miscarriage but when you can get it fitted does vary.
You can get pregnant from as little as three weeks after giving birth.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. 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 become pregnant from two weeks after an abortion or miscarriage.You can use a diaphragm or cap anytime after an abortion or miscarriage that was under 13 weeks. If 13 weeks or over, you should wait six weeks before using them and you should check you have the right size by visiting a nurse or doctor.
Speak to your midwife, GP or a nurse at a sexual health clinic to find out 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.
You should replace your diaphragm every two years or sooner if you’ve lost or gained weight, given birth or had a miscarriage or abortion or if you notice anything different or wrong with your diaphragm or cap.
100% free & confidential