Diaphragms and cervical caps
Diaphragms
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The diaphragm is a soft, rubber dome that forms a barrier preventing sperm from reaching the ovum (egg). It is used in conjunction with a spermicide.
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The diaphragm covers the neck of the womb (cervix) and is held in place by pelvic muscles. The coil spring, arcing spring and flat spring diaphragms are available in Australia.
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The diaphragm comes in different sizes — discuss with your doctor or health professional which size is suitable for you. Never borrow someone else’s diaphragm.
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A medical consultation is necessary for the diaphragm to be correctly fitted.
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The failure rate varies — 10-18 per cent in the first year to 4-8 per cent with longer use. Correct and regular usage, experience and correct fitting will increase effectiveness.
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The diaphragm can be inserted any time before having sex, but must be left in place for at least 6 hours afterwards.
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You should also insert more spermicide, without taking out the diaphragm, for each new act of intercourse.
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You should also remember not to leave it in for more than 24 hours or more than 12 hours during your period.
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Side effects are rare, but you do have an increased risk of urinary tract infections, irritation to the vagina or penis from the rubber or spermicides and, in rare cases, toxic shock syndrome.
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If properly cared for, your diaphragm should last for a year or more. Clean and dry it then store it in a cool place after use and check regularly for holes by holding it up to the light or filling it with water.
Cervical caps
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The cap is a firmer, cup-shaped device that is smaller than the diaphragm and held in place by suction higher up in the vagina than the diaphragm, directly over the cervix. The vault, vimule and cervical cap are available in Australia.
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The cervical cap also comes in different sizes and requires a medical consultation to be correctly fitted.
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The cervical cap, like the diaphragm, is used in conjunction with spermicide.
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It needs to be left in place for a minimum of 6 hours after sex, and can be left in for up to 24 hours.
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Like the diaphragm, the cap does not interfere with your body chemistry, so there is no delay in returning to fertility after use.
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There are risks of the same side effects as with the diaphragm.
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If left in for too long, caps may cause an odour or irritation in the vagina.
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The cap has the same level of effectiveness of preventing pregnancy as the diaphragm.
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The cap is more difficult to use than the diaphragm because it is smaller, and more Australian women opt for a diaphragm than a cervical cap for that reason.
No contraceptive method is 100 per cent effective. The form of contraception you choose depends on which method is comfortable for you and fits with your lifestyle. Discuss the options with your doctor or healthcare professional.
Last Reviewed: 01 May 2002
