1. An Alternative to the Pill
The diaphragm is a dome shaped rubber shield used to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from entering during sexual intercourse. This method has declined in popularity due to advances in hormonal birth control pills and patches. Many women, however, can’t or won’t use oral contraceptives because of their side effects, like increased risk of strokes and high blood pressure. The diaphragm fulfills the birth control needs of these women, albeit with a lower effectiveness rate–16% of women using the diaphragm each year will get pregnant.
2. Long Nails Hamper Insertion
Placing the diaphragm in the vagina properly increases the chances of preventing pregnancy. Before deciding on a diaphragm as your main birth control method, consider that you’ll need to spread spermicide around the rim before inserting. Squeeze the diaphragm until it’s folded and then insert it into the vagina. You can squat, lie on your back or sit with your back against the toilet to insert a diaphragm. Push it back slowly as far as it can go, until the back rim is below the cervix. If you’ve placed it properly, you won’t feel it unless you touch it with your fingers. If you have long fingernails or wear fake tips, you may need to cut them, as they can scratch the cervix or vagina or damage the diaphragm during insertion.
3. Remember These Rules
The latex in diaphragms can cause infections in certain women. Always insert the diaphragm no more than an hour before sex and remove it 6 hours afterwards. If you remove it sooner, your chance of getting pregnant increases. You can wait longer, but don’t exceed 24 hours. They need to be used every time you have sex, and spermicide must be applied each time for it to be effective. If you’re the spontaneous type, the diaphragm may not be for you. Leaving it in for too long (24 hours or more) may cause Toxic Shock Syndrome. Don’t use a diaphragm during your period.
4. Keep It Clean
You’ll need to clean your diaphragm after every use. Wash it with soap and water and let it air dry. Check it for holes, scratches and tears, and see your gynecologist for another diaphragm fitting if you gain or lose more than 10 pounds. Choose a water-based lubricant during sex, as oil-based ones may wear down the latex. With the right care, a diaphragm lasts up to 2 years.
About this Author
Marianne Moro has spent the past 10 years writing health, nutrition, and yoga commentaries for publications such as Aquarius/Sign of the Time, New Age and Moondance. She also publishes online articles for a variety of health industry clients. Moro practices yoga daily and is an enthusiastic proponent of massage therapy.
