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Caya Diaphragm



  • Easy to use yourself.
  • Suitable for unplanned sex – can be put in up to 2 hours before sex.
  • No health risks.
  • Can be reused for up to a year.
  • No effect on periods.
  • Fertility returns to normal when removed.

Caya diaphragms are domes made of soft silicone. You insert them into your vagina before sex to cover the cervix, so that sperm cannot get into the womb. You need to use Caya gel with them, which kills the sperm. They are useful for women who do not want to use a hormonal or long lasting contraceptive.

The new Caya can be purchased from pharmacies. It comes in one size only and therefore does not need to be fitted by a healthcare professional. However, you may wish to visit your local sexual health clinic to discuss how you should fit it.

Effectiveness*
82%
Reuseable for
1 year
Effect on period
None
Side effects
Rare

*for typical use (effectiveness for perfect use 86-96%)


How it works

How to use it

With clean hands, put a small amount of Caya gel on each side of the diaphragm. Slide the Caya into your vagina, so it covers your cervix.

Why it works

The Caya will stop sperm from reaching an egg by covering your cervix while the Caya gel kills any sperm.


Things to consider

You have to leave your Caya in for 6 hours after you’ve finished having sex.

Some women find they get a bladder infection or some irritation from using a Caya, or from the Caya gel.

The Caya does not protect you against STIs, so you may need to use condoms as well.

Questions?


Where can I get it?
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You can buy a Caya from pharmacies and some online stores.


Who is the Caya not suitable for?
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The Caya may not be suitable if you:

  • Have an unusually shaped or positioned cervix (entrance to the womb), or if you cannot reach your cervix.
  • Have weakened vaginal muscles (possibly as a result of giving birth) that cannot hold a Caya in place.
  • Have a sensitivity or an allergy to the Caya gel.
  • Have ever had toxic shock syndrome (a rare, but life-threatening bacterial infection).
  • Have repeated urinary tract infections (an infection of the urinary system, such as the urethra, bladder or kidneys).
  • Currently have a vaginal infection (wait until your infection clears before using a Caya).
  • Are not comfortable touching your vagina.
  • Have a high risk of getting an STI – for example, if you have multiple sexual partners.

How do I use a Caya?
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It can take time to learn how to use them.

Before use, check your Caya regularly for tears or holes by holding it up to the light and having a good look at it. Be careful with your fingernails and jewellery. If your Caya goes out of shape, squeeze it gently back into its circular shape.

You can insert a Caya up to 2 hours before you have sex – after this time, you will need to take it out and put some more Caya gel on it, or use an applicator to apply more gel.

  • With clean hands, put a small amount of Caya gel on each side of the Caya (also putting a little gel on the rim may make the Caya easier to put in).
  • Before inserting the Caya into the vagina, fold the Caya by holding the grip dimples.
  • Slide the Caya into your vagina, upwards. This should ensure that the Caya covers your cervix.
  • Always check that your cervix is covered – it feels like a lump, a bit like the end of your nose.
  • If your cervix is not covered, remove the Caya by holding the removal dome which should be located safely behind the pubic bone, then try again.
  • You must leave it in for at least 6 hours after the last time you had sex. You can leave it in longer but do not exceed 24 hours.

After use, you can wash your Caya with warm water and mild, unperfumed soap. Rinse it thoroughly, then leave to dry.


Where do I get Caya gel from?
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You can get Caya gel from a pharmacy or online.


What can make the Caya less effective?
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The Caya can become less effective at preventing pregnancy if:

  • It is damaged – for example, it is torn or has holes.
  • It is not the right size for you and does not cover your cervix.
  • You use it without Caya gel, or have sex 3 hours or more after you apply Caya gel.
  • You do not use extra Caya gel with your Caya every time you have more sex.
  • You remove it too soon (less than 6 hours after the last time you had sex).
  • You use oil-based products, such as baby lotion, bath oils, moisturiser or some vaginal medicines (for example, pessaries).

If any of these things happen, or you have had sex without contraception, you may need emergency contraception.

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, you can take preventative medication (PEP) to reduce the chance of becoming infected.


Unfortunately we have a wave of sickness within our sexual health team, which includes Doctors, Nurses and Administrative staff. Due to this, some patients may have their appointments cancelled and moved to another day due to low capacity in the team. For STI screening, you can order an online kit via this link. We are hoping this disruption will be for a limited period of time. Thank you for your patience.