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Diaphragms used for birth control are unique because they offer an inexpensive, low-maintenance, and long-lasting solution that you can’t get from other types of contraceptives. If you’ve been using a diaphragm for a while now, you may be wondering how long it should last and when you should replace it. Let’s talk about the lifespan of a diaphragm.
The longevity of your diaphragm’s usability varies depending on which type of diaphragm you are using. Traditional-style diaphragms available today—such as the silicone Milex Omniflex or Arcing styles—have a useful life of up to two years. Other latex diaphragms have boasted up to a 10-year lifespan. The new one-size-fits-most Caya diaphragm has a lifecycle of up to two years. Always read the instructions that come with your diaphragm to confirm how long your device is designed to last.
Just because your diaphragm’s box says that it can last up to ten years, doesn’t guarantee that you won’t have to replace it before then. Here are some reasons that you should consider replacing your diaphragm before the expiration date:
With childbirth, everything changes. Your body, cervix, and vaginal canal will change from your birthing experience. Avoid using a diaphragm for six weeks after childbirth because it takes that long for your cervix to return to its normal size. And your new normal may be different from your size before you got pregnant. That’s why you should consult with your doctor about getting a new diaphragm after giving birth, particularly if it’s not the one-size-fits-all style (Caya).
Whether you’ve gained or lost weight since you were initially prescribed your diaphragm, a drastic change in weight might affect the fit. While it may be on the traditional package insert to get re-fitted when your weight fluctuates more than ten pounds, it may not be true for everyone. At least one study has shown that there is no correlation between weight and diaphragm size change. It never hurts to consult your doctor after a major change in body weight to verify that the diaphragm is still working properly.
Pelvic surgery is sometimes done to correct the following conditions and can affect the fit of your diaphragm:
Be sure to discuss your birth control options with your surgeon to set up a contraceptive plan that works for you and that will be compatible with your body.
Trust your gut. If you feel like your diaphragm is no longer fitting tightly and securely as it did when you first received it, then it’s probably time to replace it. Signs of this include being able to feel the diaphragm after insertion, pain during intercourse, and the diaphragm moving or coming out when you walk, sit, lay down, or have sex. Talk to your doctor if you want to replace your diaphragm or check its fit.
Related: 5 Tips to Supercharge Your Contraceptive Diaphragm’s Effectiveness
Changes to your body are not the only reasons that you may want to replace your diaphragm before its expiration date. Check your diaphragm every time you use it for signs of wear. This includes:
At the first sign of the above, discontinue using your diaphragm and consult with your doctor about getting a new one ordered. In the meantime, be sure to use another contraceptive method.
If you’ve just realized that it’s time to replace your diaphragm, you may be wondering if you should switch from a traditional diaphragm, which requires in-person fittings, to the Caya Diaphragm. Caya is a one-size-fits-most diaphragm that doesn’t require a fitting and works for most women.
Here are a few reasons that some women prefer Caya over traditional diaphragms:
If you’re ready to upgrade to the no-fitting-required diaphragm, we can facilitate that. My Virtual Physician has partnered with Caya to provide this hassle-free birth control option to our patients who desire it.
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Two out of three women aged 15 to 49 use some form of birth control. But not every type of birth control is compatible with every woman’s body. Luckily, there are a lot of contraceptive options out there to pick from. You’ve probably heard of the pill…the shot… the ring... those are all common hormonal contraceptives.
When it comes to non-hormonal birth control, what comes to mind? Most people think of condoms, or maybe even surgical sterilization. But if you’re looking for an alternative that provides you with more control over your own body and your fertility, you may be considering a lesser-known contraceptive option: the diaphragm.
But what is a diaphragm even? If you want to know more–we’re covering some basics here, along with what it's like to use a diaphragm.
A diaphragm is a rubbery-feeling, bendable device that women can insert into their vagina before sex. It acts as a physical barrier that prevents sperm from passing through the cervix.
A single prescription can last several years since you can wash and re-use the same diaphragm over and over again. The Caya diaphragm, for example, can be used for up to two years. This makes diaphragms an affordable and convenient contraceptive option.
A diaphragm gives a woman complete control over her contraceptive. It’s only used as needed and you choose when to use it. When you decide to have sex, you insert the diaphragm beforehand, up to 2 hours prior to sex. That means there are no awkward pauses or having to remember to take medication every day.
When you insert the diaphragm, you will follow these basic steps:
Depending on the user instructions, you can usually leave the diaphragm in place for up to 24 hours. If you have sex, wait at least 6 hours to remove it in order for the spermicide to deactivate all sperm.
The first few times that you use a diaphragm, the insertion and removal process may feel a bit uncomfortable. It may take several tries to get it into the correct position. As you become more familiar with the most comfortable techniques for your body during insertion, you will find that it becomes simple and easy–similar to how a woman “gets used to” inserting a tampon.
When a diaphragm is properly fitted and in place, you should not be able to feel it. Again, the experience is very similar to how a tampon seems to escape our minds once inserted. Having sex with a diaphragm feels the same as sex without a diaphragm.
The best thing about a diaphragm is that it doesn’t alter your body’s hormones and has very few side effects, if any at all. A diaphragm can put a woman back in control over her own body when it comes to contraceptives, fertility, and family planning.
Are you interested in trying a diaphragm? My Virtual Physician is here to support you and give you the tools you need. Schedule your online appointment now to discuss your contraceptive options with your gynecologist to get your prescription today.
