The diaphragm is a barrier method of contraception: a small rubber dome filled with a spermicidal (sperm killing) cream and placed in the vagina to wall off the cervix, the opening to the uterus, thus preventing sperm from entering. When inserted correctly, this flexible cup (made of latex or medical silicone ) sits just behind the pubic bone, covering the cervix. In order to be effective, it must be used in tandem with spermicide, but it is far more effective than spermicide alone.

It is different from cervical caps, which are smaller and placed directly over the cervix.

Diaphragms are available by prescription only (in US, in many european countries there is no such restriction), as they have to be individually sized. They must be initially fitted by a health care provider. Diaphragms are inserted before sexual intercourse and have to remain in the vagina for 6 hours after the act.

Diaphragms lead to an increased risk of cystitis. Although the reasons for this are not fully understood, two factors may be responsible:

1. Pressure from the rim of the diaphragm pushing on the neck of the bladder
2. The diaphragm traping bacteria and secretions in the vagina [1].

Related topics

• List of sex-related topics
• condom