Diaphragm and cervical cap effectiveness

It?s common for people to try a few different methods of birth control before finding one that fits their lifestyle and has few, if any, undesirable side effects. The good news is for people with vaginas, both cervical caps and diaphragms can provide effective alternatives for pregnancy prevention without the use of hormones. The effectiveness rates of diaphragms range from 88 to 94 percent effective, while cervical cap effectiveness rates range from 71 to 86 percent effective (more on this in a bit). Either option can be inserted up to six hours before sex, allowing for more spontaneity than other barrier methods but requiring more preparation than the pill. Both barrier methods of contraception work by physically blocking sperm from entering the cervical opening, thereby preventing it from reaching and fusing with an egg. The diaphragm is the larger of the two methods (though designed to fit comfortably in the vagina) and is shaped like a shallow dome or cup. The cervical cap is a bit smaller and looks more like a small sailor hat. Since they?re designed to be used with spermicidal jelly or creams, each method acts in two different ways ? physical and chemical. Curious to know if one of these methods may be right for you? Keep on reading!