Diaphragm (A Female Contraceptive Device)

Diaphragm is a barrier method of contraception. It is highly effective if used along with a Spermicide. A health care practitioner is consulted to determine the size of Diaphragm that fits a woman. Diaphragm is a preferred choice of contraception as it is an easy barrier method of contraception for women. Read on to know more about the advantages and side effects of Diaphragm.

The Diaphragm is a soft rubber device that has a flexible spring attached to its outside edge. The Diaphragm is a shallow rubber disk that is dome-shaped. And its flexible ring is inserted in a way that it perfectly fits inside the vagina.

How Does Diaphragm Work?

Diaphragms are highly effective when used conjointly with Spermicides wither in the form of gels or cremes. The gel or creme acts as an indispensable contraceptive agent and stays close to the cervical area of the woman. As a result, the sperm is effectively prevented from entering the uterus. Chances of pregnancy thus get alleviated.

The Diaphragm is said to be highly effective with a score of a high 94%. But it is extremely important to ensure that the spermicidal gel or creme is used properly as otherwise, the effectiveness can fall drastically.

A Diaphragm can be effective even when continually used for two to three years. But before each usage it is very necessary to observe and check minutely for the presence of tiny rips or holes on the surface. This can be easily ascertained if the Diaphragm is stretched and held up against a source of light.

The proper size of the Diaphragm can be determined only by a physician. The woman needs to visit a health care practitioner in order to find which size exactly fits her body.

The Diaphragm must be inserted before sex and should be removed within 6-8 hours after intercourse takes place. Spermicide must be applied every two hours or before each intercourse.

The Diaphragm does not interfere with the sexual actions and can hold its place during urination and bowel movements. The woman can also go under the shower while wearing Diaphragm.


Size of Diaphragm

In order to ensure its high effectiveness, the size of the Diaphragm needs to be regularly checked.

Especially under the following conditions:

The woman has just begun an active sex life
Experiences fluctuating body weight. The situation must be carefully monitored if there is a recent weight gain or twenty pounds or more.
If the woman has become pregnant recently
If any variant of pelvic surgery is carried out on the woman.

Advantages of Diaphragm

Following are the advantages of using Diaphragm for contraception.

Women and couples are found to prefer Diaphragms due to the fact that its presence is not felt by either partner during sexual intercourse.
Compared to the other barrier method contraceptive devices like the cervical cap, the Diaphragm is easier to insert and this makes women feel more comfortable in using it.

Side Effects of Diaphragm

Have a quick look at the side effects of Diaphragm.

TSS or Toxic Shock Syndrome can happen in women if the Diaphragm is left for over a day after the sexual intercourse. This is a rare medical condition.
The woman is likely to experience bacterial infections in some cases.
Some women are allergic to rubber which is the base constituent of the Diaphragm and therefore experience irritation or allergy due to it.
The Spermicide can also cause mild to serious irritation or allergies in some women.
It is important to note that the Diaphragm merely is a contraceptive that prevents pregnancy and does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted diseases and infections. The most common diseases and infections like gonorrhea, Chlamydia, herpes or HIV are not prevented with a Diaphragm. It is therefore advisable to use the Diaphragm along with the male condom to experience safe sex for both the partners.