Inserting a diaphragm might seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. About 80% of Caya users correctly inserted and confirmed correct position of their diaphragm in the vagina after just reading the instructions.
A Step-by-Step Guide for How to Use Caya.
A Step-by-Step Guide for How to Use Caya. This slide show covers the steps for using Caya. Use the right and left arrows to scroll through the steps. Contact your provider if you are having difficulty with the steps.
Before You Begin
Remove Caya from the case. Before Caya is first used it should be rinsed. Ensure that you have a contraceptive gel for insertion.
1. Locate Your Cervix
If you’re using Caya for the first time, it will help to understand where your cervix is located (which is what your diaphragm will cover). You can find your cervix by using your index finger to feel inside your vagina. The cervix feels like the tip of your nose.
2. Find your Pubic Bone
Next, you’ll need to find your pubic bone, just in front of your cervix. The narrowest end of the Caya diaphragm—the arrow/finger pull—will rest here.
3. Apply Gel to Caya
Before insertion, fold Caya using the grip dimples on each side and squeeze about one teaspoon of contraceptive gel into each of the folds.
4. Spread Gel Evenly
With your finger, spread the gel around the rim of the Caya diaphragm. This helps make insertion into the vagina easier, and creates a barrier along the edges.
5. Squeeze Grip Dimples
Hold the Caya diaphragm with one hand. Place the thumb and index finger on the grip dimples along the rim, squeezing it lightly for insertion. Make sure the arrow is pointing toward your body.
6. Insert Caya
Using your free hand, spread the labia at the opening to the vagina. Push Caya deeply along the back vaginal wall (towards your back) until the cervix rests inside the cup.
7. Verify Coverage
Using your finger, verify your cervix is covered by the membrane of the Caya diaphragm. If you can feel the cervix through the cup, then it is in the correct position. If not, remove the diaphragm and try inserting it again.
8. Get Sexy…
9. Leave in 6 hours
The Caya diaphragm must remain in the vagina at least 6 hours after sex before it is removed. This allows enough time for the sperm to become ineffective. The diaphragm should never remain in the vagina for more than 24 hours.
10. Remove Caya
Six hours after the last ejaculation, remove the diaphragm. Insert one finger into the vagina and pull out the Caya diaphragm using the removal dome.
11. Wash Caya
After use, wash Caya with mild soap and water. Dry gently with a soft clean cloth, or let it air dry. Store it in the Caya clamshell case.
12. Examine Caya
Be sure to check Caya carefully each time you use it (before and after). If there are pin-holes or thin spots or the spring rim is not fully enclosed by silicone rubber, you should replace Caya.
Basic Caya Care and Insertion Tips
Nearly 85% of patients found Caya easy to use. However, if you are at all concerned with how to use Caya, it is best to contact your provider for guidance.
CAYA INSERTION TIPS
- Can be inserted anytime before sex
- Raising one leg can make insertion easier
- Do not remove between repeated sex
- Insert more gel for each sex act
CAYA DIAPHRAGM CARE
- Check before use for tears or holes
- Check that it covers the cervix each time
- Gently wash with mild soap & air dry
- Keep Caya in the protective case
6 HOURS
Caya must be left inserted for at least six hours after sex
24 HOURS
Do not leave Caya inserted for more than 24 hours
2 YEARS
Caya can be used for up to two years
Video Guide
Proper use* helps to increase the effectiveness of the Caya diaphragm in preventing pregnancy.
For details about using Caya, this 7-minute video covers:
- Benefits of Caya
- What a diaphragm is
- Proper insertion & usage
- How it works
- Cleaning & care
*Proper use includes using the diaphragm with a water-based contraceptive gel. For information about where to get the gel, see our FAQ.
Use Caya with a Contraceptive Gel
Two different water-based gels have been tested as compatible with Caya for the US market:
- VCF gel, which can be found at most pharmacies as well as on Amazon, and comes with 10 applicators. VCF Spermicide gel contains nonoxynol-9, which kills sperm upon contact. Sometimes the nonoxynol-9 causes a reaction, and if so, ask your provider about trying Phexxi.
- Phexxi contraceptive gel immobilizes sperm until they die. It comes in a tube, as a single application, but it requires a prescription. Please see your provider.
Usage Instructions
