Diaphragm
What is a diaphragm?
Diaphragms are sometimes called Dutch caps. They look a bit like a flying saucer we think. A diaphragm is basically a domed rubber circle with a harder rim. The female puts it into her vagina to cover her cervix before sex. This stops sperm getting to the egg. To do this, however, the diaphragm has to stay where it is for about 6 hours after sex.
What are the advantages?
- The diaphragm is between 92% and 96% effective. That means that out of 100 women who use the diaphragm, between 8 and 6 will become pregnant in a year.
- The diaphragm has no side effects or long term effects on the body. Some people are sensitive to the spermicide which must be applied to the diaphragm before it is used. However, most people can find a brand of spermicide which they are not allergic to.
- The diaphragm can be used more than once.
What are the disadvantages?
- If you don't put the diaphragm in the proper way it may rub against your partners penis, which isn't fun for either of you.
- You need to get your family doctor or clinic doctor to measure you for size and give you a lesson in putting it in.
- If you gain or lose more than 7kg in weight you'll need to get another diaphragm.
- The diaphragm is not good at protecting you from sexually transmitted infections.
- The diaphragm has to be kept clean but you must not use normal detergents or cleaning products. Your family doctor or Contraceptive and Sexual Health clinic can advise you on what to use instead.
Where can I get hold of a diaphragm?
Your family doctor or specialists at Contraception and Sexual Health clinics can advise you as to whether the diaphragm is the best form of contraception for you. If it is, they will be able to provide it for you.