- The diaphragm is a barrier device placed in front of the cervix to prevent pregnancy. It is shaped like a dome and made of soft latex or silicone with a spring molded into the rim. The spring in the diaphragm acts as a seal against the walls of the vagina at the opening of the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the uterus.
- Before inserting a diaphragm, one should first wash their hands to prevent any harmful bacteria from entering the vagina. The rim of the diaphragm is squeezed into an oval or arch before insertion. A water-based lubricant, such as Astroglide or K-Y Jelly is applied around the rim of the diaphragm and about a teaspoon can be placed in the center of the dome. The diaphragm is then inserted much like a tampon as far up the vaginal canal as possible and allowed to spring open in front of the cervix.
- A diaphragm can be inserted any time before sexual intercourse has begun, and must remain in the vagina for six to eight hours after the last act of intercourse. For multiple acts of intercourse, the diaphragm can remain in the vagina, but it is recommended to insert another teaspoon of spermicidal lubricant into the vagina before each act. It is not recommended to leave a diaphragm in place for longer than 24 hours, for this increases the risk of infection and Toxic Shock Syndrome.
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Many women find a diaphragm convenient because:
-The diaphragm only has to be used during intercourse and this can be more desirable for women who do not want a method that requires action every day, such as the birth control pill.
-Diaphragms can be inserted hours before use, which means that intercourse will be uninterrupted, as opposed to a condom which has to be put on immediately before sex.
-Most partners report that neither can feel the diaphragm during intercourse when it is in place properly.
-Diaphragms are less expensive than many other forms of contraception.
-The diaphragm can also be used as a reusable menstrual device, which catches the menstrual blood and can be washed and re-inserted. -
There are a few precautions to consider when using a diaphragm as a form of contraception.
-A diaphragm does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
-Women or men who are allergic to latex should not use a latex diaphragm.
-There is an increased risk of urinary tract infection associated with using a diaphragm. To decrease this risk, be sure to urinate before and after intercourse.
-Toxic Shock Syndrome occurs in approximately 2 1/2 cases per 100,000 women using a diaphragm, almost entirely in cases where the diaphragm has been left in place for longer than 24 hours. Be sure to remove the diaphragm six to eight hours after intercourse to avoid this risk.
