Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a form of contraception that does not have side-effects. It is inserted into the vagina and prevents sperm (sperm cells) from reaching the uterus.

There are two types of diaphragm, oval-shaped and round: it is a flexible ring covered with a layer of silicone. The oval shape is more common, and comes in a size that fits most women. The round diaphragm comes in seven different sizes (60–90 mm diameter).

You can be fitted with the correct shape and size of diaphragm at a doctor’s surgery, advisory centre or women’s health centre. You will also be shown how to insert and remove the diaphragm.

You can use the diaphragm as often as you wish for up to two years.

How to use a diaphragm

Using a diaphragm takes some practice. You use your fingers to insert it into the vagina, covering the cervix, up to two hours before you have sexual intercourse. You should also use a special gel that stops the sperm moving.

Press the sides of the diaphragm together to create a lengthways fold. Apply contraceptive gel inside the fold (do not use a lubricant gel containing silicone oil).
Keep the rim of the diaphragm pressed between your thumb and index finger.
When you insert the diaphragm, with the oval-shaped model the small arrow on the edge should point towards your body. The round model has no markings. Insert the diaphragm into the vagina with the hollow fold facing upwards.
Insert the diaphragm deep into the vagina, covering the cervix.
The membrane of the diaphragm must cover the cervix completely. You can check that you can feel the cervix underneath the membrane.
The diaphragm stops sperm entering the uterus during sexual intercourse.
Remove the diaphragm 6 hours after sexual intercourse at the earliest and 24 hours at the latest. Feel for the removal dome or the edge of the diaphragm with one finger and pull it out.
Wash the diaphragm with soap and water and leave it to air-dry.

If the diaphragm shifts during sexual intercourse or you remove it too early

Sometimes the diaphragm does not sit correctly over the cervix, shifts during sexual intercourse, or is removed too early. Talk to a doctor or ask for emergency contraception in a pharmacy.

Cost

You can buy a diaphragm without a prescription in a pharmacy or online. It will cost between 35 and 60 euros. In addition, you will need to pay around 10 euros per tube of contraceptive gel (60 ml), which is enough for around 15 applications. If you order online, you will also need to pay delivery charges. Advice obtained from a doctor’s surgery or women’s health centre is free of charge.