Hormone-free contraceptive methods do not contain any hormonal active ingredients. The best-known methods include the diaphragm, condoms, the copper IUD, the copper chain and Natural Family Planning (NFP) method.
Studies show that experiences relating to libido, sexuality and body image can vary from person to person. This article provides an overview of the current state of research on contraception, sexuality and body image.
For many people, personal factors play a role in choosing a contraceptive method, alongside contraceptive reliability; these include:
For some people, the question of how a contraceptive method might affect their personal well-being and sexual experience also plays a role.
International guidelines therefore recommend that the choice of a contraceptive method be made on an individual basis, taking into account both medical and personal factors.
Recent reviews show that experiences with contraceptive methods and sexuality can vary. Whilst some users report changes in their sexual experience, other studies show no significant differences.
Research suggests that sexuality is influenced by numerous biological, psychological and social factors. Consequently, experiences of sexuality cannot usually be explained solely by the choice of contraceptive method.
The diaphragm is a hormone-free barrier method. It is inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse and covers the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the womb. It is always used in combination with a diaphragm gel.
Many users appreciate the fact that:
The Caya® diaphragm has been specially designed for ease of use.
As the diaphragm acts locally and contains no hormonal active ingredients, contraception does not rely on hormonal mechanisms and has no systemic effect.
In addition to scientific studies, user surveys can provide insights into how contraceptive methods are experienced in everyday life.
In a voluntary user survey of 805 Caya® users conducted in 2025, 95% of participants reported that their sexual experience had remained the same or improved. The results provide insights into the experiences of the surveyed users with the method in everyday life.
Among the most common reasons for choosing the diaphragm were the desire for hormone-free contraception and a greater awareness of contraception and sexuality.
Professional bodies recommend that the choice of a contraceptive method be made on an individual basis. In doing so, health considerations as well as personal preferences, life circumstances and contraceptive goals should be taken into account.
Which method is the best fit depends on individual needs, health factors and personal preferences.
No. The diaphragm contains no hormonal active ingredients and acts as a local barrier method.
Scientific research shows that experiences with contraception and libido can vary from person to person. Sexuality is influenced by many biological, psychological and social factors. Therefore, sexual experience cannot usually be explained solely by the choice of contraceptive method.
Experiences can vary from person to person. Whilst some people notice changes in their sexual experience, others report no changes at all. Research suggests that sexuality is influenced by many biological, psychological and social factors.
People interested in hormone-free contraception often also consider questions relating to libido, sexuality and body image. Scientific research shows that experiences can vary from person to person.
Both hormonal and hormone-free methods of contraception are used successfully by many people. Which method is the best fit depends on individual needs, health factors and personal preferences.
Note: This article is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice.
