Contraceptive diaphragm
PROS/CONS
Pros
Doesn't affect your periods.
Does not temporarily affect your fertility so you can stop using and try for a baby at any time.
It doesn’t contain any hormones.
No hormonal side effects such as weight gain, mood swings and breast tenderness.
Self-administered. Can be used as and when you need.
Cons
Using it can take practice and it requires keeping track of the hours inserted. It needs to be left in for a minimum of 6 hours after sex.
Can come out during sex if not used properly.
Not as effective as other types of contraception such as long-acting contraceptives.
Needs to be used every time you have sex.
It can interfere with spontaneity.
Diaphragms should not be used until 6 weeks post-partum or 6 weeks after a second-trimester abortion.
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The pros and cons listed are not exhaustive. Talk to your doctor or nurse for more information.
SIDE EFFECTS
Diaphragm side effects
If you keep it in place longer than 24 hours, there is a risk of toxic shock syndrome. Toxic shock is a rare but serious infection.
PP-UN-WHC-GB-0081 September 2023
