Meet Caya, a new and improved version of the diaphragm birth control option. For those unfamiliar to what a diaphragm is, the idea is simple: a flexible, dome shaped cup is vaginally inserted to block the cervix, thus preventing sperm from entering.
This is awesome news for women looking for a non-hormonal option of birth control due to either medical conditions or personal choices. Its process of creation took 10 years and involved user feedback to make this a modern, easy-to-use device.
Caya is different from other diaphragms because it comes in one size – cutting out the need for adjustment after losing weight or having a child. Other modernizations include a coiled, nylon spring and removal tab. The tab makes it easier for women to remove the device after sex (thank goodness).
In recent years, the diaphragm has essentially become non-existent in the world of birth control. A study in 2010 showed only 3.1 percent of women were using the device. Caya creators are hoping the redesign will bring back the diaphragm as a stable form of birth control.
According to Bob Patane of HPS Rx (a wholesale pharmaceutical distributor), “In talking with family planning providers about this single-size diaphragm over the past few months, their eyes ‘light up’ when they hear that a new diaphragm is coming to market and no fitting exam is required.”
No fitting exam? Caya definitely sounds like a winner, so what’s the catch? With incorrect to typical use, the diaphragm is only 88 percent effective compared to the IUD’s 99 percent and the pill’s 94 percent. Still yet, Caya studies have shown that using the modernized diaphragm required little instruction and that placing the diaphragm perfectly was easier than older versions. If Caya is used properly, it is a 94 percent effective birth control method.
If you haven’t been able to use hormonal birth control methods or you simply want a new alternative, Caya seems like a great first step. You can definitely sign me up!
Photo via Caya, Original article via RH Reality Check
