Diaphragm
What It Is
The diaphragm is a round piece of soft, thin latex rubber with a firm, flexible ring that fits comfortably in the vagina. Because every woman is different, diaphragms come in many sizes. You can only get a diaphragm from a clinician or doctor who will fit you with the right size.
The diaphragm is put into the vagina so that it covers the opening to the uterus (the cervix). Once it is in place, the diaphragm should not be bother the woman or her partner during intercourse. The woman should be able to walk around with the diaphragm in place for several hours and not feel it.
The diaphragm does not protect against HIV or other STDs. If you are having sex with someone who might give you a sexually transmitted infection, use a condom. TOP
Effectiveness
Perfect user: A person that uses their method of pregnancy prevention correctly all of the time.
Typical user: A person who does not use their method of pregnancy prevention correctly.
With perfect use, the diaphragm is 94% effective.
That means that if 100 women use the diaphragm exactly the right way every time they have sex, 6 of them may get pregnant in a year.
With typical use, the diaphragm is 84% effective.
For women who don't use the diaphragm the right way every time they have sex, 16 women out of 100 may get pregnant in a year. TOP
Advantages
- Diaphragms cause few health problems.
- Diaphragms work well to prevent pregnancy.
- Diaphragms can be put in up to 6 hours before sex.
- You only need to use the diaphragm when you have sex.
- Most men will not feel the diaphragm when having sex.
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Possible Side Effects
- Allergy to the latex rubber or to the birth control cream or jelly
- Vaginal infection: This can happen if the diaphragm is left in too long or if it is not cleaned and dried well.
- Toxic Shock Syndrome (See Possible Warning Signs below)
Women may have the following side effects if their diaphragm doesn't fit well. If you have any of these side effects, go to your clinician/doctor:
- Bladder infection
- Pelvic cramps or discomfort
- Irritation of the vagina
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Possible Warning Signs
Toxic Shock Syndrome can be a serious health problem that comes from a bacteria that grows in the diaphragm if it is kept in place for more than 24 hours. This is why it is important to remember to remove it within 24 horuse.
Rarely does a woman get TSS if she wears the diaphragm for 8 hours, but it is possible. If you ever experience the warning signs of TSS listed below, take out the diaphragm right away and go to your clinician or an emergency room.
Toxic Shock Syndrome Warning Signs
- Sudden high fever
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Feeling dizzy, faint or weak
- Sore throat
- Aching muscles and joints
- A rash that looks like a sunburn
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Important Warning
Though the diaphram is very safe, the spermicide used along with a diaphram may not be safe for people who have sex with multiple partners.
Spermicide may cause changes in the vagina and anal area that make it easier to get HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. If you have more than one partner, or your partner has more than one partner, it is better not to use spermicide. TOP
To Learn More
To learn more about the diaphragm, go to:
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