Diaphragm

The diaphragm is a barrier method of birth control. It is a rubber dome shaped cup that fits over the cervix and that is used with a spermicidal cream or jelly. The diaphragm creates a barrier so that sperm do not reach the egg. The spermicide kills sperm before they are able to get around the diaphragm.

A healthcare professional must prescribe and fit a woman for a diaphragm. This adds to the overall cost of a diaphragm. Once the diaphragm is purchased there is only the expense of purchasing spermicide. The cost varies depending on the frequency of intercourse. A new exam and diaphragm is needed when the following occur:

· Weight gain

· Weight loss

· Change in vaginal tone (like after giving birth)

· Diaphragm damage

· Diaphragm over two years old

To use a diaphragm, spermicide is applied to the diaphragm and then the diaphragm is inserted in the vagina, covering the uterus. It can be put in place up to one hour before intercourse. It will provide contraception protection for up to six hours after insertion. The diaphragm will need remain inserted for at least 6 hours after intercourse and should not be left inserted for longer than 24 hours.

For women who do not have intercourse regularly, it can be used only when sexually active, which makes it convenient in that respect. The diaphragm is easy to care for. It will need to be washed after each use with mild soap and water and allowed to air dry before being put in its storage container.

Women rarely if ever have side affects from using a diaphragm. The side affects include:

· Urinary tract infection

· Vaginal infection

· Toxic shock syndrome with prolonged use

The diaphragm cannot be used if there is any vaginal bleeding including menstruation. Women with poor vaginal muscle tone or who are prone to frequent urinary tract infections may not be able to use a diaphragm for birth control.

A diaphragm can be inconvenient for some women. If a woman isn’t at home when she is having intercourse, remembering and bringing the diaphragm and spermicide can be problematic. Intercourse must be planned and diaphragm use doesn’t match sexually spontaneous and sexually adventurous women. For women who are in a committed relationship and live with their partner, a diaphragm is a better match.

The diaphragm is moderately highly effective (about 84%) in preventing pregnancy. It is more affective when combined with other forms of birth control like a condom.

The diaphragm is a good choice for women who want minimal or no side affects from a birth control method. For women who have frequent intercourse it may be too inconvenient.