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Diaphragm
vs
Pill

A side-by-side comparison of two birth control methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method
Diaphragm

Diaphragm

A reusable silicone dome that covers the cervix to block sperm, used with spermicide each time you have sex.

Pill

Pill

No non-hormonal birth control pill is FDA-approved in the US. Ormeloxifene (centchroman) is approved and used in India.

Efficacy83% typical use

Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

Limited evidence see details

Limited evidence: no verifiable efficacy data available.

Cost$80–$200

Insurance: Usually

Contact provider

Insurance: Varies

DurationReusable for 1-2 years (replace every 1-2 years or sooner if damaged)Weekly pill (ongoing)
ReversibilityReversibleReversible
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

A reusable silicone dome covers the cervix to block sperm from entering the uterus. Used with spermicide for added effectiveness.

Ormeloxifene (centchroman) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that prevents pregnancy by inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg in the endometrium. It does not suppress ovulation and does not contain estrogen or progestin. It is not FDA-approved in the US.

PrescriptionRequired Prescription requiredRequired Prescription required
Available Products2 products1 product
Side effects
  • Increased risk of urinary tract infection
  • Vaginal irritation from spermicide
  • Discomfort if not fitted correctly
  • Menstrual irregularities (delayed or altered periods; common, about 8-12% of users)
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Breast tenderness
Who shouldn't use this
  • Uterine or cervical anomaly preventing fit
  • Sensitivity to silicone or spermicide
  • Inability to insert or remove reliably
  • Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOS)
  • Recent history of jaundice or hepatic impairment
  • Renal impairment
  • Cervical hyperplasia or chronic cervicitis
  • Pregnancy
  • Hypersensitivity to ormeloxifene