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Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a dome–shaped rubber cup with a firm rim that fits snugly over the cervix and is held in place by suction and support of the vaginal wall. A diaphragm prevents pregnancy by stopping the sperm from passing through the cervical opening and should always be used with a sperm killing cream or jelly. Your doctor will fit you with the correct size diaphragm for your body, but you will have to learn how to put it in and take it out yourself.

Perfect Use: 94% effective with Spermicide Typical Use: 84% effective with Spermicide

How to Use the Diaphragm:

  • Put a teaspoon of spermicidal cream or spermicidal jelly into the cup of the diaphragm.
  • Spread a small amount of spermicide around the edge with your fingertip.
  • Find a position that is comfortable for you to insert the diaphragm; standing with one leg up, squatting, or lying down.
  • Hold the diaphragm with the dome facing down (the spermicide up) and press the opposite sides of the rim together between your thumb and third finger.
  • Push the compressed diaphragm gently inward (towards your backbone, not straight in) as far as it can go.
  • Use your pointer finger to push the front rim of the diaphragm up until it is firmly in place just behind the pubic bone. Use your pointer finger to check that the diaphragm is in place over the cervix. When it is in correctly, you should not be aware that it is there.
  • The diaphragm should be removed six hours after having sex.
  • If you wish to have sex again (before removing the diaphragm) you should insert more spermicidal jelly or cream. Simply fill and insert the applicator, then apply spermicide into the upper part of the vagina. Wait six hours from time of last sex to remove the diaphragm.
  • To remove: hook your pointer finger behind the front rim of the diaphragm and pull out.
  • After use, wash your diaphragm with mild soap and warm water. Store in a cool dry place. Don’t use the diaphragm if it looks dry, cracked, or if it has a hole or tear.

Advantages:

  • Reusable
  • Can be put in up to 6 hours before having sex
  • Can be used with or without partner knowing
  • Reversible
  • Does not change hormone levels

Disadvantages:

  • Does NOT protect against STIs, including HIV/AIDS
  • May be difficult for some women to learn how to insert it
  • May increase risk for vaginal and urinary tract infections
  • Some women may be allergic to the rubber or spermicide