Overview

What are diaphragms or caps?

• Diaphragms and caps are types of contraception you put inside your vagina before sex. You need to use them with spermicide (gel, foam or cream that kills sperm).
• Diaphragms and caps are discs or small domes made of thin, soft silicone or latex. They cover the cervix (entrance to the womb).
• They prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm entering the womb.
• Diaphragms and caps are not suitable for everyone.
• Caps are smaller than diaphragms and you can leave them in for longer.
• If correctly used diaphragms and caps are estimated to be between 92 and 96% effective. If not used correctly they are less effective.

Information:

Diaphragms and caps do not stop you getting or passing on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use a condom every time you have sex to protect you and your partner against STIs including HIV.

Where to get diaphragms or caps

Contraception services are free and confidential on the NHS.

You can get diaphragms or caps along with a supply of spermicide from:

• sexual health clinics, also called family planning or contraception clinics
• some GP surgeries
• some young people's services (call the national sexual health helpline on 0300 123 7123 for more information)

Find contraception information and advice services

You can get additional spermicide on prescription from sexual health clinics and GP surgeries. You can also buy it without a prescription from pharmacies.

Spermicide does not prevent pregnancy if you use it by itself.

Getting contraception if you’re under 16

Contraception is free and confidential, including for young people under the age of 16.

The doctor or nurse will not tell anyone, including your parents or carer, unless they think you or someone else is at risk of harm.

Who can use diaphragms or caps

Can I use a diaphragm or cap?

Diaphragms and caps are not suitable for everyone.

The diaphragm or cap may not be suitable for you if:

• you have a latex allergy
• you often have urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• you have ever had toxic shock syndrome
• you or your sexual partner has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as chlamydia – you should wait until the infection clears before having sex
• you have a higher risk of getting HIV, for example your partner has HIV, you have sex with multiple people or share needles

The cap may be less effective if you've given birth.

If any of these apply to you, talk to a doctor or nurse about whether it’s safe for you to use a diaphragm or cap.

How to use diaphragms or caps

Getting a diaphragm or cap fitted

Diaphragms and caps come in different sizes. Caps are smaller than diaphragms.

A doctor or nurse will check the size you need by feeling inside your vagina. You can have a friend, family member or other member of staff in the room with you if you want.

The doctor or nurse will show you how to use the diaphragm or cap, and make an appointment for you to go back in a few weeks to check you're using it correctly.

Using a diaphragm or cap

Follow the instructions that come with the diaphragm or cap, and with the spermicide.

To use a diaphragm or cap correctly:

• Check the diaphragm or cap for holes before each time you use it.
• Apply spermicide to the diaphragm or cap, following the instructions a nurse or doctor has given you.
• Put the diaphragm or cap in your vagina up to 3 hours before sex, making sure it fits over your cervix.
• Apply spermicide to the diaphragm or cap again every 3 hours until you have sex.
• After sex, leave the diaphragm or cap in for at least 6 hours.
• Remove the diaphragm or cap and wash it with soap and water.
• Dry it carefully and keep it in its container in a cool, dry place.

Do not leave a diaphragm in your vagina for more than 30 hours, or a cap for more than 48 hours.

Do not use a diaphragm or cap during your period, as this may increase the risk of an infection called toxic shock syndrome.

Getting the diaphragm or cap replaced

A diaphragm or cap usually lasts for 1 year before it needs to be replaced.

You may need to get a different size of diaphragm or cap if:

• you lose or gain more than 3kg in weight
• you have a miscarriage or abortion
• you give birth

Contact a sexual health clinic or GP surgery about getting a replacement.

After pregnancy

If you were using a diaphragm or cap as your main method of contraception before giving birth, you will need to wait 6 weeks before you can start using it again.

You should check with a sexual health clinic, doctor, nurse or midwife before using it as you may need a different size.

You should use an alternative method of contraception, such as a condom, during this time.

How well diaphragms and caps work

If used correctly diaphragms and caps are estimated to be between 92 and 96% effective. If not used correctly (for example, forgetting to add spermicide) they are less effective.

Important

If you notice a hole in your diaphragm or cap after sex, there may be a chance you could get pregnant. You may need emergency contraception.

Speak to a pharmacist, sexual health clinic, GP or call 111 for advice.

Side effects and risks of the diaphragm or cap

Diaphragms and caps are very safe and serious side effects are rare.

Side effects include:

• urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• toxic shock syndrome (this is very rare)
• skin irritation to you or your sexual partner caused by latex or spermicide

If a diaphragm or cap is causing pain or irritation, contact a sexual health clinic or GP for advice.

If you are unable to speak to a GP or sexual health clinic, then call 111 for advice.