What are diaphragms and caps?
- Diaphragms and caps are referred to as barrier methods of contraception. They fit inside your vagina and cover your cervix. This will stop sperm from advancing.
- To be effective, diaphragms and caps need to be used with a spermicide. Spermicides are chemicals which destroy sperm.
- Vaginal diaphragms are circular domes made of thin, soft rubber with a bendy rim.
- Cervical caps look the same but are smaller.
How effective are diaphragms and caps?
If you follow the instructions correctly diaphragms and caps are 92-96% effective.
Where can I get a diaphragm or cap?
You can get a diaphragm or cap from a GUM clinic, family planning clinic and some GPs. If you don't want to see your own doctor you can go to another GP who provides contraceptive services. If you happen to know the size and type of diaphragm or cap you use, you can buy them from a chemist.
You will need to talk to your GP or the doctor or nurse at the sexual health clinic to see if the diaphragm or cap is the right method of contraception for you. They will ask you questions about your contraceptive needs to help you decide your most suitable method.
What are the advantages of a diaphragm or cap?
- You only have to use a diaphragm or cap when you have sex.
- There are no serious health risks associated with using it.
- You are in control of your contraception.
- You can put it in before you have sex.
- It may give you some protection against cervical cancer and some sexually transmitted infections.
What are the disadvantages of a diaphragm or cap?
- It should always be inserted before sex.
- It is not as effective as many other methods.
- The spermicide can be a bit messy.
- It may take time and practice to learn how to put a cap in.
- Some women may find they develop Cystitis from using a diaphragm or cap. Ask the doctor or nurse to advise you on the size of your diaphragm if you suffer from cystitis. Changing to a slightly smaller or softer-rimmed (coil spring) diaphragm or to a cervical cap may help.
- The rubber or spermicide can cause an irritation in some women and their partners. Sometimes using a different spermicide may help.
Can anything make a diaphragm or cap less effective?
The diaphragm or cap will be less effective if:
- you forget to put it in before having sex.
- You don't insert it correctly so that it doesn't cover your cervix.
- you forget to use spermicide.
- you have sex more than two hours after you put a rubber diaphragm or cap in and you don't use extra spermicide.
- you don't use extra spermicide every time you have sex.
- you don't leave it in for six hours after the last time you had sex.
- You use oil-based products which destroy the rubber diaphragms or caps.
- The cap or diaphragm may be damaged.
How do I use a diaphragm or cap?
The first time you get your diaphragm or cap a doctor or nurse will give you detailed instructions on how use it and care for it.
How often do I need to see a doctor or nurse?
You should see a doctor or nurse 3 months after first fitting then every 12 months to check that your cap or diaphragm still fits. If your weight changes by more than 4kg the cap or diaphragm should be rechecked.
If you have any concerns or wish more information about the diaphragm speak to your GP or staff at a GUM or Family Planning Clinic. If you notice a tear in your diaphragm contact your GP or staff at a clinic immediately for advice. You will find more detailed information on the diaphragm and cap at the link below.
Links
Family Planning Association: www.fpa.org.uk
