Diaphragm birth control is a type of birth control where you place a diaphragm (a silicone or latex dome-shaped device) inside the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy. Diaphragms are a type of barrier method of birth control, meaning they work by preventing sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. It’s often used in tandem with spermicide—a topical contraceptive that kills sperm.
Diaphragms appeal to many people for their convenience and lack of hormones. However, they are less effective at preventing pregnancy than other methods of birth control and don’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The use of diaphragms with spermicide results in pregnancy about 17% of the time, making them about 83% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Diaphragms are dome-shaped devices constructed of either latex or silicone. Spermicide is added to the diaphragm before use. The rim of the diaphragm is flexible so that the diaphragm can be folded and inserted into the vagina. Once inside, the diaphragm unfolds and then creates a barrier over the cervix so that sperm can’t enter the cervix and cause a pregnancy.
Diaphragms aren’t the only type of birth control barrier method. Other examples of barrier methods include male condoms, female condoms, cervical caps, and sponges.
Each type of birth control has positives and negatives. What might work for one person might not work for another. Comparing the pros and cons of diaphragm birth control might help you decide if it’s right for you.
Pros
Oral birth control pills (“the pill”) and female sterilization are the most used birth control methods by women in the United States, but those methods are not best for everyone. Some people are drawn to the diaphragm when they want to avoid some of the side effects of hormonal birth control, like weight gain and mood changes. Others don’t want to use a method that causes infertility, like sterilization.
Many people also like diaphragms because you administer them yourself. Also, you can insert the diaphragm two hours before sex so it won’t break the mood of sexual encounters.
Cons
Diaphragms are not without drawbacks. The biggest one is that diaphragms have a lower effective rate than other popular birth control methods. For example, hormonal birth control pills are about 93% effective, whereas diaphragms are about 83% effective. Another significant drawback is that diaphragms don’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Some people find aspects of using a diaphragm to be inconvenient. For instance, you have to remember to use one each time you have intercourse. Also, spermicide can get messy, and the diaphragm needs to be cleaned and stored correctly. There is an increased risk of urinary tract infections while using a diaphragm, which causes some people to stop using them.