Have you wondered how the Caya Diaphragm works? A contraceptive or female diaphragm, like our Caya^® contoured diaphragm, is a birth control device inserted into the vagina before sex that creates a protective barrier to reduce the possibility of pregnancy. 

What’s the science behind the diaphragm? And are there specific instructions for using a diaphragm to reduce the risk of pregnancy, you ask? Yes!

Let’s talk about the facts behind Caya and reproductive health. First, although you might already know the process, let’s revisit how and when pregnancy happens and the role of the cervix. 

How does the cervix reduce or aid in pregnancy? 

During the act of sex, sperm are released into the vagina. How many sperm? According to WebMD, each ejaculation releases about 100 million sperm. All 100 million are swimming toward the goal of fertilizing the woman’s egg. 

Each month, a woman typically releases a single egg into the womb or uterus, which is behind a wall known as the cervix. 

The cervix is located in the upper part of the vagina, between the pubic bone and the vaginal walls. You can find your cervix by using your index finger to feel inside your vagina. The cervix feels like the tip of your nose.

For a few days each month, when a woman is ovulating—or most likely to become pregnant—the cervix is a more hospitable place for sperm. (Although a woman may become pregnant throughout the month.)

During those ovulation days, the wall of the cervix becomes thinner and the fluid around it less acidic. This environment enables the sperm to move more freely and to pass into the uterus to reach the egg. 

How does a diaphragm prevent pregnancy? 

To help prevent pregnancy during ovulation and throughout the month, a diaphragm like Caya essentially builds a second wall in front of the cervix. Inserted before you have sex (even several hours beforehand), it is a second barrier so sperm can’t reach the egg in your womb (uterus).

Diaphragms are most effective at preventing pregnancy when you add a spermicide to the diaphragm before you insert it, which further disables the sperm. It also provides lubrication for ease of insertion and comfort. 

Which leads to the instructions for using and inserting the Caya diaphragm to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy…

How do you use the Caya diaphragm?

We have detailed instructions on our website under How to Use Caya, but essentially:

After sex, it is important to leave the Caya diaphragm in for at least six hours to reduce the risk of becoming pregnant. Sperm usually become inactive or stop “swimming” after 6 hours.

Some women, who are especially concerned with avoiding pregnancy, use Caya in combination with monitoring their monthly cycle, so they know when those ovulation days might be occurring. 

What are other contraceptive diaphragm benefits?

Woman-controlled: A diaphragm does not stay in your body all the time, unlike birth control pills or the IUD. You insert it before you decide to have sex. 

Hormone-free: For women with medical conditions, undergoing cancer treatments, or for mothers who are breastfeeding, the diaphragm is especially great.

Durable and One-size-fits most: Our Caya diaphragm has been designed with input by women, is made from more durable silicone, and it lasts for up to two years. It’s contoured and sized to fit most women, which means women no longer require a fitting or a doctor’s appointment before they can get Caya. Although you do need a prescription.

Reusable and portable: The Caya diaphragm is small and kept in a clamshell container so it easily fits in a purse or backpack.

How do you get a Caya diaphragm?

Caya is contoured and sized to fit most women, which means you do not require a fitting before you can get a Caya diaphragm. However, in the United States, you do need a prescription and there are two ways to get the Caya diaphragm prescription.

You can get Caya by visiting your provider, or the easiest method is via telehealth. Visit our Get Caya page on our website for more details.

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Want more information about Caya diaphragm birth control?

At Caya, we’re here to answer questions you might have. Check out our FAQ on our website. If you still have questions, contact us via phone or chat with a customer service representative, or sign up for our newsletter. We’re reshaping your options for contraception.