Diaphragm

Benefits
- Easy to use yourself
- Suitable for unplanned sex – can be put in up to two hours before sex
- No health risks
- Can be reused for up to a year
- No effect on periods
- Fertility returns to normal when removed.
Diaphragms are domes made of soft silicone. You insert them into your vagina before sex to cover the cervix, so that sperm cannot get into the womb. You need to use spermicide with them, which kills the sperm. They are useful for women who do not want to use a hormonal or long lasting contraceptive.
The new diaphragm can be purchased from pharmacies. It comes in one size only and therefore does not need to be fitted by a health professional. However, you may wish to visit your local sexual health clinic to discuss how you should fit it.
Thinking about the diaphragm? Join the conversation.
Share your story, ask others or tag @Dr_Paula on our contraception forum ThePOW.




*for typical use (effectiveness for perfect use 86-96%)