Using Your Diaphragm

Diaphragms may seem like an old fashioned idea, but they protect against pregnancy without interfering with the body's natural hormonal balance. Some women find the diaphragm a much more natural form of birth control than hormone-based alternatives such as the pill. The diaphragm, when used in combination with spermicide creams provides good protection against pregnancy.

Side Effects?

Most women find they have no side effects while using a diaphragm. A few women do report vaginal irritation caused by the latex rubber of the device or from the spermicide creams that are used with diaphragms. In rare cases, other health risks have been associated with diaphragms including:

Urinary tract infection

Vaginal infection

Toxic shock syndrome (with prolonged use)

You will need to see your doctor to be fitted for the diaphragm. A diaphragm lasts for about two years before it needs to be replaced, but you may need to be refitted for a new diaphragm during this time. Factors such as weight gain or loss, and changes in vaginal tone affect the fit of your diaphragm. The best time to check the fit of your diaphragm is at your annual pelvic exam.

Always use your diaphragm with spermicide, since the diaphragm does not protect against pregnancy without this additional product. Once you insert the diaphragm, it protects you against pregnancy for up to six hours. If you have intercourse a second time, don't remove the diaphragm. Instead, use the plastic applicator that comes with the spermicide to insert more spermicide cream.

Practice Makes Perfect

Inserting the diaphragm is tricky at first. Practice with your gynecologist until you feel you've got the hand of things. Here are some tips for diaphragm insertion:

Hold the diaphragm dome side down. Squeeze a teaspoon of spermicide cream into the center of the diaphragm and spread a bit of the cream around the rim with your finger.

Squeeze the diaphragm so that it's boat-shaped. Insert the folded device into your vagina. Use whatever position you use when inserting a tampon (standing with one foot propped up, squatting, or while lying on your back in bed).

Push the diaphragm as far as it goes and tuck it behind your cervix. Check to see if you can feel the latex covering the cervix, the dome shaped protrusion that is the entry to your uterus. You shouldn't be able to sense or feel the diaphragm unless you reach into your vagina to touch the device.

The diaphragm should remain in place for a minimum of six hours after intercourse but shouldn't stay in longer than 24 hours. To take out the diaphragm, hook your finger into the back rim of the device and pull it out of your vagina.

Wash the diaphragm with soap and water and let it air dry.

Make sure to use only water-based lubricants with the diaphragm, as petroleum jelly can destroy the latex, making for baby-producing holes and tears.