Diaphragm

The diaphragm is a flexible rubber dome that is inserted into the woman's vagina to cover the cervix.

The diaphragm can come is various types and various sizes, each woman has a different body, so it is the gynecologist job to measure each woman with a special vagina instrument to make sure the diaphragm is the right fit.

It is always advisable to use the diaphragm with spermicide cream to make it more effective. Before inserting the diaphragm into the vagina it should be washed with soap and water, then cover it in spermicide both outside and inside.

One of the most comfortable positions to insert the diaphragm correctly is supporting one leg on a chair or on the toilet, you can lie on a bed and open your legs, etc..

To insert the diaphragm into your vagina you take it with one hand and fold it, while with the other hand you are helping spread your lips, you push it into the bottom of your vagina to cover the cervix properly.

The diaphragm should be used whenever there is penetration. It should be inserted at least ten minutes before intercourse (no more than 4 hours before) and stay in place at least 8 hours after having sex,  but no longer than 24 hours.

After use it must be washed with soap and water, dried and stored in its corresponding container, avoiding leaving it near heat, store it in a cool, dry place. Check from time to time that the rubber is in good condition, be careful not to pierce it with your nails when removing and storing it in it’s container.

A diaphragm should be replaced every year or two years aproximately, it all depends on if you find any abnormalities or if a woman has a sudden change in weight, either loss or gain.

Diaphragm: effectiveness

The diaphragm is a contraceptive with an effectiveness of 82% to 94%.

Being a non-hormonal contraceptive it has low effectiveness, its effectiveness is also compromised by incorrect placement or because it is damaged. This would be a clear path for the sperm to pass into the vagina to fertilize the egg.

Diaphragm: advantages

Here are some of the advantages of using the diaphragm:

- The diaphragm has fewer side effects than other contraceptives.

- Cannot be felt whilst having sexual relations.

- The diaphragm not having hormones produces no hormonal changes.

- Can be inserted into the vagina up to 4 hours before any sexual intercourse, so it does not influence the spontaneity in relationship.

- Can be used during lactation (after the vagina and cervix have returned to normal after pregnancy)

- No negative effects on fertility.

Diaphragm: disadvantages

Below are some of the disadvantages of using the diaphragm:

- The diaphragm provides little protection against sexually transmitted diseases and infections, especially against HIV which is the cause of AIDS.

- Is a contraceptive method that has low effectiveness.

- The diaphragm produces an increase of suffering from urinary tract infections and sensitivity to spermicide.

- The placement of the diaphragm, can be uncomfortable.

- It needs to be placed before sex.

- Severe obesity can prevent a good fit.

- Not recommended for people allergic to the latex or spermicides that are used.

- Sometimes can cause painful urination or bladder discomfort if you think you suffer from either of these symptoms please consult your doctor.

- If you want to have intercourse another time, spermicide must be put onto the diaphragm being careful when removing it to prevent semen already inside the diaphragm from coming out.

- The diaphragm can not be used while the woman is menstruating and less still when you have an infection.