Diaphragm

Std Protection?
No
Failure rate
Covered by insurance?
Yes
Typical cost range
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A silicone cup that prevents pregnancy.

Skip Upsides & Downsides section. Skip to side effects section.

Our bottom line

The diaphragm is easy to use, but needs to be inserted into the vagina correctly. It's most effective (and recommended) when used with a spermicide, which can be irritating and messy.

Quick facts about Diaphragm
  • Method class: Barrier
  • Rx status: Prescription only
  • Generic status: No lower cost generic available
  • Hormone status: No hormones
People’s experience with Diaphragm

23reviews so far. What do you think?

Upsides

  • Can be inserted right before sex, or up to 18 hours beforehand (won't interrupt the heat of the moment!).
  • Very simple to use, and safe for most women.
  • Doesn't contain hormones, which some women prefer.
  • Usually inexpensive, and can be used for up to 2 years.
  • You can get one easily OTC or online with a prescription. Your health provider might even have them in stock.
  • Can be left in for 24 hours – and you can have sex as many times as you want in that time frame.
What’s the failure rate?
12%
of people using this method got pregnant in a year

This method is ranked 10 out of 17 birth control methods listed. The lower the number, the better.Source

More birth control methods

Downsides

  • Requires a prescription, and sometimes a fitting (depending on which diaphragm you get) that can cost up to $200 without insurance.
  • Not recommended for use during your period – best to use another method of birth control around this time.
  • Might take some practice to insert and remove it correctly.
  • Must be left inside the vagina for 6 hours after sex in order for it to work.
  • You have to be comfortable with your body since you insert and take it out on your own.
  • Best when used with a spermicide, which can irritate some women's vaginas or cause urinary tract infections.
  • Doesn't protect against STDs.
How it works

The diaphragm works by covering a woman's cervix and keeping sperm from getting to the egg. When used with a spermicide, the spermicide kills sperm, reducing the chances of becoming pregnant.

Quick facts about Diaphragm
  • Method class: Barrier
  • Rx status: Prescription only
  • Generic status: No lower cost generic available
  • Hormone status: No hormones