Diaphragms as Birth Control: A Couple’s Perspective on Barrier Methods

As a woman, I have tried what seemed like nearly every birth control method out there, from several versions of the pill–to the vaginal ring–to an IUD–to barrier methods like male condoms and the diaphragm. The problem I had was that the chemicals in many of these methods were negatively impacting my health. My main complaint was migraines, which I believed to be hormone-related. So, I saw non-hormonal birth control as my only option for pregnancy prevention.

When you think about contraceptives in a monogamous relationship, it seems like guys are responsible for condoms, and women are responsible for staying on the pill. Ultimately, couples get to decide together how they want to have safe sex. So whether it’s the fertility awareness method, barrier methods, or relying on birth control pills, you have options.

One of those options is for the female partner to use a barrier method called the diaphragm. And this blog is about a couple’s perspective on the contraceptive diaphragm, which means we’ll take a look at what men have to say about it, too. Let’s cover five reasons that we love this handy little thing called the diaphragm when compared to other non-hormonal pregnancy prevention options, particularly the condom.

Related: 4 Things You Need to Know About Using a Diaphragm for Birth Control

1. Diaphragms are More Effective at Pregnancy Prevention than Condoms

Male condoms have a failure rate of 18 pregnancies in 100 couples using the method, while traditional diaphragms with spermicide hover around 12 to 14 per 100 women. Condoms are made of a thinner material that is more prone to breaking and malformities than diaphragms, which are considered a long-term, reusable barrier method. Some couples may choose to use one or the other, while other couples decide to double up. By using both male condoms and diaphragms, you can drastically reduce the failure rate.

2. Diaphragms Provide an Unhindered Sensory Experience

Diaphragms are made of a soft, rubberized material, either latex or silicone. This material only covers the cervical opening, meaning that a couple’s sexual pleasure is unaffected by the diaphragm being in place. Unlike condoms, which cover the male sexual organ completely and can dull sensations, couples who choose to use diaphragms have no physical barrier to interfere with the physical connection. In fact, men report that they cannot feel the diaphragm at all.

Related: Diaphragms as a Contraceptive: What’s It Like to Use One?

3. Diaphragms Are Inexpensive Over the Long Term

Condoms are expensive. At an average cost of around $20.00 for a 36 pack, the cost adds up over time. Over a two-year period, many couples who rely on condoms alone will have spent hundreds of dollars on rubbers. The contraceptive diaphragm, on the other hand, is often covered by insurance. If insurance doesn’t cover the cost, you’ll pay around $100 for a diaphragm that will last for years. The Caya diaphragm can last two years, and traditional diaphragms have a lifespan of up to ten years.

4. With Diaphragms, Couples Enjoy an Uninterrupted Sex-Life

Pausing during the heat of the moment when you’re about to have sex with your partner can be so awkward. Sometimes it can be a major turnoff if there are any struggles to find a condom or get it put on fast enough. With diaphragms, all the legwork is done minutes or even hours before you’re in the bedroom. That means when you’re ready to go, you can proceed without that unnatural delay that comes with condoms.

5. Diaphragms Eliminate Discomfort Caused by Condoms

Couples who choose non-hormonal birth control face a struggle if the material used in barrier methods is irritating to the skin. Some common complaints from men about condoms are:

• “Condoms make the base of my penis hurt”
• “Condoms don’t fit me right”
• “Condoms make me itchy”
• “Condoms irritate my skin”
• “Condoms squeeze my penis too tightly”

Sex should be pleasurable and definitely should not cause skin irritation or pain. So what’s a couple to do? A diaphragm is an alternative solution that solves the above complaints. There are even silicone-based diaphragms available, like the Caya contoured diaphragm, in case of a latex allergy.

Related: Why You Might Want to Ask Your Online OBGYN about Diaphragms

The Final Verdict on Diaphragms

Diaphragms are making a comeback in the 21st century with one-size-fits-most options like Caya. For couples who want to keep their fertility unaffected and use barrier methods for birth control, diaphragms and condoms are the two main choices. From a couple’s perspective, a diaphragm can be a superior option for the reasons mentioned above.

So if now you’re wondering, where do I get one? We’ve got you covered. My Virtual Physician has partnered with Caya to provide our patients with a seamless prescription process without any vaginal exam or fitting required. Fill out the Caya prescription form and get yours ordered today!

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