HEALTH SERVICES

Diaphragms, caps and shields

What is it?
Diaphragms, caps, and shields are soft latex or silicone barriers that cover the cervix.

• The diaphragm is a shallow, dome shaped cup with a flexible rim. It fits securely in the vagina to cover the cervix.

• FemCap is a silicone cup shaped like a sailor's hat. It fits securely in the vagina to cover the cervix.

• Lea's Shield is a silicone cup with an air valve and a loop to aid in removal. It fits snugly over the cervix.

Diaphragms, caps, and shields keep sperm from joining the egg by physically blocking the opening to the uterus. Each method must be used with spermicide cream or jelly.

How effective is it?
70-95%

Upside

• Easily carried in pocket or purse

• Generally cannot be felt by either partner

• Immediately effective and reversible

• No interruption of sex play — can be inserted hours ahead of time

Downside

• Cannot be used during menstruation

• May be difficult for some women to insert

• May be pushed out of place by some sexual positions, penis sizes, and thrusting techniques and angles

• Must be in place every time a woman has vaginal intercourse

• Diaphragms and caps may require refitting

• Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections

• Use of the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day by people at risk for HIV, or for anal sex, may irritate tissue and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.