Diaphragm

What is a diaphragm?

A diaphragm is a form of birth control. You put it into your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it to try not to get pregnant.

A diaphragm is a shallow cup made of rubber. It’s shaped like a dome and is flexible. A healthcare worker can tell you what size of diaphragm you need. They will also show you how to use it. A diaphragm is placed deep in the vagina. Once it is in, it should feel comfortable. A diaphragm has to be used with spermicidal jelly or cream. Spermicidal jelly and cream kill sperm. When the sperm is killed, your chances of getting pregnant are lower.

How does a diaphragm work?

The diaphragm works in two ways:

  1. It holds the spermicidal jelly or cream that kills sperm close to the cervix. The cervix is the opening to the uterus.

  2. It works as a barrier. It covers the cervix. It stops sperm from going into the cervix.

How effective is a diaphragm?

Out of 100 women who use a diaphragm, about 85 will not get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower when you use the diaphragm correctly and every time you have vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant when you use the diaphragm with a condom or another method of birth control.

How do you use a diaphragm?

  • Read the instructions that come with the diaphragm.

  • Before putting the diaphragm in, fill with water to make sure there are no leaks.

  • Put the diaphragm in up to six hours before you have vaginal sex. If you plan to have vaginal sex more than six hours after you put the diaphragm in, you need to add more spermicide.

  • If you have sex again, leave the diaphragm in. Put more jelly or cream into your vagina, using an applicator, before you have sex. Do this each time you have sex again.

  • Leave the diaphragm in for six to eight hours after you last had sex. This is so that the spermicide can kill the sperm.

  • After you take the diaphragm out, clean with warm water (do not use chemical soap) and make sure it is dry before storing it.

  • If you want, you can use a special introducer to help you put the diaphragm in and take it out. You should go to your healthcare worker to have your diaphragm checked if you have given birth, have had a miscarriage, have had an abortion, have gained or lost 10 pounds or more, have had surgery in your pelvic area, or if your diaphragm feels uncomfortable, because you may need a new size.

What are the advantages of a diaphragm?

  • You only have to use it when you need it.

  • It may protect you from some sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

  • You don’t feel it. Your partner doesn’t feel it.

  • You don’t have to interrupt sex to put it in.

  • Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.

  • It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.

  • You usually need to get a new one only every year or two.

What are the disadvantages of a diaphragm?

  • Some women find it hard to put in or take out.

  • The spermicide cream or jelly might irritate you.

  • A healthcare worker has to fit it.

  • The diaphragm does not fit all women.

  • You have to clean it and take care of it each time you use it.

  • You need to use extra jelly or cream if you have sex again.

  • You need to feel comfortable with putting it into your vagina.

  • You may have more risk of getting urinary tract infections.

  • You may be at more risk of getting toxic shock syndrome.

  • The diaphragm does not prevent the transmission of HIV.

Where can you get a diaphragm?

You need to go to a healthcare worker to find out the right size of diaphragm for you. However, you don’t need a prescription to buy one. You can buy a diaphragm and spermicidal jelly or cream at any drug store or birth control clinic.