A diaphragm is a hormone-free contraceptive and is one of the mechanical barrier methods of contraception. It consists of a flexible silicone membrane which is inserted deep into the vagina before sexual intercourse and completely covers the cervix.
It is always used in combination with a diaphragm gel and protects against unwanted pregnancy by mechanically preventing sperm from entering the uterus.
A diaphragm prevents pregnancy through two coordinated mechanisms:
One example is Caya® Gel: it contains two key ingredients. Cellulose forms a second mechanical barrier in front of the cervix, in addition to the diaphragm’s membrane. Lactic acid, with an adjusted pH value of 3.8, supports the natural vaginal environment and is always used in combination with the diaphragm.
The Caya® diaphragm is inserted before sexual intercourse. Before insertion, the Caya® is folded at the side grip dimples. Approximately 4 ml (about one teaspoon) of diaphragm gel (Caya® Gel) is placed into the resulting membrane recesses.
Small amounts of the gel are spread around the rim. Coating the rim makes insertion into the vagina easier.
Hold the Caya® diaphragm with one hand. When inserting, the arrow should point towards the body.
The Caya® is pushed up to the posterior vaginal fornix and, using the recessed grip, up to the pubic notch.
The Caya® is correctly positioned when the cervix is completely covered by the membrane of the Caya® diaphragm and lies between the posterior vaginal fornix and the pubic notch.
The cervix should be felt through the silicone membrane of the Caya® diaphragm (it feels like the tip of your nose). If this is not the case, the diaphragm must be removed and reinserted.
After sexual intercourse, the Caya® diaphragm must remain in the vagina for at least 6 hours.
It is then removed from the vagina by the removal dome.
After each use, the Caya® diaphragm should be rinsed with soap and water and dried with a soft, dry cloth.
To protect it from external influences, the Caya® should always be stored in the case provided.
Important: The Caya® diaphragm should never be left in the vagina for longer than 24 hours, as prolonged, uninterrupted use can encourage the growth of bacteria in the vagina. These bacteria could then lead to Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
A diaphragm prevents fertilisation by:
As sperm must enter the uterus and travel further into the fallopian tubes for fertilisation to occur, this pathway is reliably blocked by the combined use of the diaphragm and diaphragm gel.
No contraceptive method offers 100% protection. The diaphragm protects against unwanted pregnancy but not against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The diaphragm explained clearly: The video clearly demonstrates how this hormone-free contraceptive with a barrier function is used, how it covers the cervix and, in combination with a diaphragm gel, prevents sperm from entering the uterus.
Find out more about how to insert them correctly and use them safely in everyday life.
