HowUKnow - Diaphragm

REGIMEN

Less than 24 hours

EFFICACY TYPICAL USE

The diaphragm is flexible dome-shaped disc made from latex rubber or silicone. It is inserted into the vagina to form a barrier between the sperm and the entrance of the womb. Your healthcare provider will need to do an initial fitting to find the right size of diaphragm for you. Note that the diaphragm doesn't get its efficacy rate alone; it is highly recommended to combine it with spermicide for optimum effectiveness.

How To

The diaphragm needs to be inserted into the vagina prior to sex. Start by washing your hands. Fill the diaphragm up with spermicide and spread some around the edges too, as a precautionary measure. Fold the diaphragm in half and, as you would a tampon slide it up into your vagina and then push it right up until it's covering your cervix. The diaphragm must be left in the vagina for at least 6 hours after sex and not more than 24 hours in total. If you have sex more than once you need to use more spermicide every time you have intercourse. From time to time, check the diaphragm for any damages and replace it if necessary.

Reference: http://www.fpa.org.uk/contraception-help/your-guide-contraception
Accessed on September 6, 2016

PROS

Can be used on demand
Can easily be carried with you
Not affected by other medications
Can be used when breastfeeding
Hormone-free

CONS

Using it may take practice
Requires keeping track of the hours inserted
Not always suitable for women who have given birth
Needs spermicide to be fully effective
Can interfere with sexual spontaneity
Requires initial fitting by healthcare provider
May cause irritation, allergic reactions and urinary tract infection (UTI)
If kept in place longer than 24 hours, there is a risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but serious infection
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)