Birth Control: Diaphragm and Cervical Cap

Pregnancy rates

Talk with your healthcare provider about the effectiveness of this birth control method.

Using the diaphragm or cervical cap

• These devices must be fitted and prescribed by a healthcare professional. You will be instructed on how to insert them.

• These devices must be used with spermicides, which are creams, foams, or gels that kill sperm.

• The diaphragm can be inserted up to 2 hours before sex and the cervical cap up to 6 hours before sex.

• The diaphragm can be left in place for up to 24 hours and the cervical cap for up to 48 hours.

Pros

• Provides birth control right away

• Can be inserted ahead of time

• Easy to stop if you decide you want to become pregnant

• May protect against certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but not HIV, the virus that causes AIDS

Cons

• Requires planning ahead

• May be hard for some women to insert

• May increase the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) or toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious disorder caused by toxins released by certain bacteria

• Must be left in place for 6 to 8 hours after sex

• Cervical cap can’t be used during your period

• Cervical cap is significantly less effective for a woman who has given birth

The diaphragm or cervical cap may not be for you

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

• You're allergic to all spermicides

• You can't reach your cervix or insert the device correctly

• You aren't willing to plan ahead or interrupt sex to use it