Diaphragm
Barrier Method
The diaphragm is a circular dome made of thin, soft silicone that’s inserted into the vagina before sex.
DETAILS
The diaphragm is a circular dome made of thin, soft silicone that’s inserted into the vagina before sex.
The rim has a flexible spring that keeps it in place. It covers the cervix, preventing sperm from getting into the uterus to fertilise an egg. It needs to be used with a spermicide (a gel that kills sperm).
As diaphragms come in different sizes, your diaphragm will need to be fitted by a healthcare provider, who will also show you how to put it in.
HOW TO
You need to insert the diaphragm before you have sex. With clean hands, start by spreading spermicide in the diaphragm and along the rim.
Squeeze the diaphragm in half and insert it in the vagina as you would a tampon, making sure that it covers your cervix. If you have sex more than once, make sure that the diaphragm is still in place and insert more spermicide.
You must leave your diaphragm in for at least 6 hours after the last time you had sex.
After using it, rinse your diaphragm thoroughly with warm water and mild unperfumed soap. Always check it for any signs of damage before using it.
PROS
- It can be inserted before sex
- Does not contain hormones
- Is not affected by other medications
CONS
- It is not as effective as other types of contraception
- It must be used with spermicide every time you have sex
- It does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections
- It needs to be fitted by a trained healthcare provider
- It requires practice to insert it correctly
- Some women may develop bladder infections when using the diaphragm
SIDE EFFECTS
Some people may experience irritation in or around the vagina or penis.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A contraceptive diaphragm or cap is a circular dome of thin, soft silicone inserted into the vagina before sex.
It covers the cervix so sperm cannot get into the womb (uterus) to fertilise an egg.
For fitting contraceptive diaphragms or caps, pelvic examination by a physician or a skilled healthcare provider is necessary. Diaphragm Manufacturers produce fitting rings and different rim types in various sizes. Sizes range from 50 to 105 mm. They are most commonly available in flat spring or coil spring rim types. Diaphragms between 60 -85 mm in diameter will provide the correct fit for most women. A clinical assessment of the vaginal length approximates the fitting ring size. To find the perfect diaphragm the clinician tests a range of sizes. Each diaphragm is fitted with the correct rim to suit the woman as rim type can affect the fit and ease of insertion. It should fit snugly into the upper half of the vagina. The user should practice insertion under supervision. Placement is assessed to ensure that the fitting ring is correctly positioned in the vagina. Fitting is done when the bladder is not empty so the user can test to ensure ease of urination with the fitting ring. The diaphragm may require resizing following a full-term pregnancy, pelvic surgery, or abortion, or if there is a significant weight change.
A diaphragm should be removed no sooner than 6 hours after intercourse and can remain in place for up to 24 hours after intercourse. Additional spermicide should be applied before more intercourse. If more spermicide is required it should be placed in the vagina and the diaphragm should be left in place.
A diaphragm should be removed no sooner than 6 hours after intercourse and can remain in place for up to 24 hours after intercourse. Additional spermicide should be applied before more intercourse. If more spermicide is required it should be placed in the vagina and the diaphragm should be left in place.
Spermicides contain substances that kill sperm. Some products also form a thick foam or mucus which blocks the cervix and acts as a barrier against the sperm. They can come in the form of foam, foaming tablets, pessaries, creams, jellies and sponges. Spermicides are not effective enough when used alone, and should be used in combination with barrier methods such as the diaphragm or cap.
Most spermicides have an unpleasant taste but will not usually harm you or make you feel ill. However, it is advisable to avoid swallowing excessive amounts. If you have ingested spermicide and feel unwell, you should seek the advice of a healthcare provider.
Contraception Methods
CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT
CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT
CONTRACEPTIVE INJECTION
CONTRACEPTIVE INJECTION
CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH
CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH
CONTRACEPTIVE RING
CONTRACEPTIVE RING
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES
FEMALE CONDOM
FEMALE CONDOM
FERTILITY AWARENESS
FERTILITY AWARENESS
INTRAUTERINE DEVICE
INTRAUTERINE DEVICE
INTRAUTERINE SYSTEM-IUS
INTRAUTERINE SYSTEM-IUS
MALE CONDOM
MALE CONDOM
PULL-OUT METHOD
PULL-OUT METHOD
SPERMICIDES
SPERMICIDES
SPONGE
SPONGE
STERILISATION
STERILISATION
THE PILL
THE PILL
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