What is The Diaphragm?
A diaphragm is a rubber dome-shaped device which the woman places over her cervix (opening to the uterus). A diaphragm is held in place by a woman's vaginal muscles. When combined with use of a spermicide (a gel which kills sperm), a diaphragm can provide a successful barrier to prevent sperm from entering the uterus (womb). The recommended diaphragm size is determined by your physician, at a custom clinic fitting. Diaphragms are generally considered to be between 86-94% effective. Among typical couples who use a diaphragm, about 16% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year of use. If the diaphragm is used consistently and correctly, about 6% will become pregnant. Diaphragm refittings should occur every one to two years, and after a significant loss or gain of weight, or pregnancy.
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What are the advantages of The Diaphragm?
- When used perfectly, only 6 couples in 100 become pregnant the first year using a diaphragm.
- The diaphragm gives the woman control.
- The diaphragm often comes in a discreet portable container.
- The diaphragm can be put in within 6 hours of initiation of sexual intimacy, but spermicide should be inserted every two hours.
- The diaphragm can be left in place and used for multiple sexual acts within a 48 hour period.
- Your partner can insert the diaphragm as part of lovemaking.
- There are no hormones involved, and thus, there are no hormonal side effects.
- The use of the diaphragm does not affect future fertility.
- Provides an opportunity for women to better know their bodies.
- The male partner does not have to 'pull out' immediately after ejaculating.
- Intercourse during a woman's period is less messy. The diaphragm holds back menstrual blood. Women who have had Toxic Shock Syndrome are recommended against using a diaphragm during menstration
- The diaphragm may slightly reduce the risk for Sexually transmitted infections including; cervical infections, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, human papilloma virus (HPV), and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- It may be used during breastfeeding after a woman's vagina and cervix have returned to non-pregnant shape.
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What are the disadvantages of The Diaphragm?
- You must be fitted for a diaphragm by a clinician.
- Insertion of the diaphragm may interrupt sex.
- Using the diaphragm increases your risk for urinary tract and yeast infections.
- If left in too long, the diaphragm slightly increases your risk for a serious infection called toxic shock syndrome. Don't leave your diaphragm in for more than 48 hours.
- Some women find the diaphragm unattractive.
- If you do not like touching your vagina, the diaphragm may not be a good method for you.
- It is difficult for some women to insert a diaphragm correctly.
- The diaphragm may slip out of place during sex. If you change positions, you may want to check to see that the diaphragm is still covering the cervix.
- A new fitting may be necessary after having a baby, an abortion, miscarriage, or gaining or losing 15 pounds.
- The diaphragm must be left in place at least 6 hours after the last act of intercourse.
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Where can I purchase The Diaphragm?
You must be fitted for a diaphram in a clinician's office. Be sure you are shown how to insert and remove the diaphragm. You should also walk around your clinician's office to test its long-term comfort. You will be given a prescription for the specific type of diaphragm you will use. You must go to a drugstore to get the actual diaphragm and the spermicide to use with the diaphragm.
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