Caya contoured diaphragm is first new design in 50 years

SEATTLE, June 25 (UPI) -- A newly designed single-size diaphragm made with a contoured nylon spring and silicone cup may attract more women to the contraceptive option, researchers said.

The first redesign of the diaphragm in 50 years, shown to be easier to use, especially for new users, is a non-hormonal birth control option that can be used for up to two years.

The diaphragm, called the Caya, is inserted into the vagina before sex and prevents sperm from entering the uterus by covering the cervix, the same as a traditional diaphragm. Women don't need to be fitted for the Caya, however, because of its one-size-fits-all design.

Researchers said that diaphragms that come in multiple sizes can be difficult to supply, provide, and use, making a simple, universal diaphragm a significant improvement.

"Clinical studies confirm the single-size design fits most women who could wear a traditional diaphragm," said Gustavo Doncel, M.D., Ph.D., scientific and executive director of CONRAD, a division of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Eastern Virginia Medical School, said in a press release. "In the recently published contraceptive effectiveness study, 76 percent of women were able to insert and correctly position the diaphragm simply using instructions. With coaching, 94 percent of women were able to insert, correctly position, and remove the diaphragm. This should make it easier to provide and use consistently."

Contraceptiveness studies showed the Caya successfully prevents pregnancy when used with contraceptive gel at the same rates that traditional diaphragms do.