Diaphragm

The ‘cap’.

A soft, flexible, dome-shaped cup made from silicone that is placed inside the vagina before sex.

There is one type of diaphragm available in Australia, called Caya. It comes in one size, which fits most people. It is used with a special contraceptive gel called Caya Gel.

• Preventing pregnancy.

A diaphragm is placed in the vagina before having sex. It sits over the cervix and creates a physical barrier that stops sperm from entering the uterus and fertilising an egg. It needs to be used with contraceptive gel which helps create an additional physical barrier.

The diaphragm does not contain hormones. It can be a suitable option for people who cannot use hormonal contraception for medical reasons.

As soon as the diaphragm is correctly in place and used with the contraceptive gel, it starts working straight away to prevent pregnancy.

Typical use: 83% effective.

Perfect use: 84% effective.

• Make sure the diaphragm hasn’t expired.
• Check your diaphragm for damage (tears, holes, wear) before each use.
• Before insertion, place approximately one teaspoon of contraceptive gel in the cup of the diaphragm.
• If you have inserted the diaphragm more than 2 hours before sex, you need to add more contraceptive gel.
• Insert the diaphragm as per the instructions in the box so it fully covers the cervix.
• Insert the diaphragm before any genital contact occurs.
• Keep the diaphragm in place during sex.
• Use extra contraceptive gel each time you have sex (if having sex multiple times in a row).
• After sex, leave diaphragm in for at least 6 hours.
• If there is repeated intercourse, the gel must be reapplied deep inside the vagina every 2 hours (leave the diaphragm in)
• Do not leave the diaphragm in place for more than 24 hours at a time.
• Only use water or silicone-based lubricants (avoid oil-based products).
• Wash your diaphragm with mild soap and water between uses, and make sure it is completely dry before storing.

The package containing the diaphragm will include instructions on how to insert it properly. However, if you are still unsure or have trouble with insertion, a healthcare professional can help.

The effectiveness of diaphragms can be reduced if:

• it is not used every time you have sex
• it is not used or inserted correctly
• it is inserted more than two hours before sex and no additional contraceptive gel is used
• the contraceptive gel is not used or not used properly
• it is removed before six hours has passed since having sex
• it moves out of place during sex
• you do not use extra gel if you have sex multiple times in a row
• it is damaged, worn out or doesn’t fit
• oil-based lubricants or products are used with the diaphragm
• it is past its expiry date

No.

Internal and external condoms are the only types of contraception that protect against STIs.

A diaphragm needs to be inserted each time you have sex.

A diaphragm usually lasts up to 2 years and can be used repeatedly during this time, as long as it does not wear out or get damaged.

A diaphragm sits inside the vagina and cannot be seen. You and your partner(s) will usually not feel it during sex. In some cases, a partner may feel the diaphragm during sex, especially if it is not in the right position. It is more likely to be felt with fingers than with a penis.

With correct use, side effects from using a diaphragm are uncommon, but some people may experience:

• skin irritation of the vagina or penis
• increased risk of bladder infection or urinary tract infection (UTI)
• silicone allergies are very rare, but could cause itching, redness or swelling

In exceptionally rare instances, there is a possible risk of toxic shock syndrome. This is largely associated with improper use like leaving the diaphragm in for more than 24 hours.

A diaphragm may not be recommended if you:

• have a history of toxic shock syndrome
• have a difference in the shape of your vagina or uterus that may not allow the diaphragm to cover the cervix correctly
• are living with HIV or at high risk of HIV infection
• are using antiretrovirals
• are allergic to silicone, or have a partner who is

Diaphragms do not require a prescription and can be bought at:

• some pharmacies across Australia
• some sexual and reproductive health clinics
• online stores

The Caya diaphragm is the only type of diaphragm available in Australia. You must also purchase the Caya Gel for use with the diaphragm.

The diaphragm is not as widely available as other types of contraception and may be harder to find.

Diaphragms cost between $100–130 each.

The contraceptive gel which must be used with the diaphragm costs around $30 per tube.

No, diaphragms have no impact on your future fertility. You could fall pregnant as soon as you stop using this method.

You should wait 6 weeks after having a baby before using a diaphragm. You should check if the diaphragm still fits, as the size and shape of your uterus may have changed. A healthcare professional can assist.