Using a diaphragm is a form of birth control. It prevents pregnancy by creating a barrier between a woman’s uterus and a man’s sperm. The diaphragm is a reusable dome cup. It is suitable for opening the cervix. People often use diaphragms with spermicide. This is a gel, cream, or foam that kills sperm.
There are 4 types of diaphragms. They are made of latex or silicone. The most common type is spring arch. It has the strongest rim and is the easiest to fit. It works best for women with weak vaginal muscles. The coil spring membrane flexible rim. It works best for women with average vaginal muscles. The flat spring membrane similar but with thin bezels. It works best for women with strong vaginal muscles. You can use the diaphragm introduction tool to insert both coil springs and flat springs. The wide rim diaphragm is a silicone option. It is best for women who are allergic or sensitive to latex. It comes in the form of a dome spring or a coil spring.
See your primary care doctor or gynecologist to have your diaphragm removed. They will help you decide which diaphragm is best and prescribe it for you. They will do a test to measure you and find the correct size. If it is too small, it may fall out or not block the sperm. If it is too big, it will cause discomfort. The most common size is 75 millimeters (mm). It is important that your diaphragm fits properly. Your doctor will teach you how to properly insert and help you practice. It will be located just behind your pubic bone.
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Once your doctor is right for you and you’ve practiced placing your diaphragm, you’re ready to use it.
Prepare your diaphragm
Before inserting the diaphragm, you should put spermicide on it. Pour about 1 teaspoon into the cup or dome. Spread it around the rim of the diaphragm. Do not use petroleum jelly or oil-based vaginal creams, such as Monistat. These can create small holes in the diaphragm. You can also put some spermicide in your vagina.
Insert your diaphragm
You can insert your diaphragm from a number of positions. It is best to lie down, squat or stand with one leg up. Your legs need to be extended. Bending your knees can help. Once you’re in place, follow these steps:
- Use one hand to fold the diaphragm in half with the dome facing down. Hold the vagina open with the other hand.
- Insert the diaphragm into your vagina and aim at your tailbone. Push the diaphragm as deep into the vagina as possible.
- Use one finger to push the front rim of your diaphragm up behind your pubic bone. Aim at your navel.
Check the position of the diaphragm
Use your finger to feel the cervix through the dome of the diaphragm. The cervix will feel firm, but boneless. It feels a bit like the tip of your nose. If you can’t feel your cervix or if it’s not covered, the diaphragm is misaligned. You need to remove the diaphragm, apply more spermicide, and put it back on. The diaphragm should not fall out when you cough, squat, sit down, or walk. The diaphragm is in the correct position if it is above your pubic bone.
Use your diaphragm
You must use the diaphragm correctly every time you have sex. With spermicide, this method can prevent pregnancy. You should never use a diaphragm during your period. You will need to use another form of birth control at this time. Do not douche while you use the diaphragm. Do not leave the diaphragm in the vagina for more than 24 hours. This can cause irritation, infection, or a medical condition called toxic shock syndrome.
After you have sex
You need to apply more spermicide if you have sex more than once. Put some in your vagina, but do not remove your diaphragm. After sex, leave the diaphragm in place for at least 6 hours. To remove the diaphragm, hook your finger to the front rim. Gently pull it down and out. Try not to poke a hole in it with your fingernails.
Take care of your diaphragm
Wash the diaphragm with mild soap and water after each use. Rinse and let dry naturally. Store the film in a cool and dry container. Regularly check your diaphragm for holes, tears, or leaks. To do this, fill the dome with water and look for damage. If you find any, do not reuse the diaphragm. Get a new one from your doctor. If you continue to use it, you increase your risk of pregnancy.
Things to consider
Once a year, your doctor should check the fit of your diaphragm. It should be replaced about every 2 years. You’ll need a new one if you have had a baby, had pelvic surgery, or gained or lost more than 15 pounds.
When you use the diaphragm and spermicide together, the prevention rate ranges from 70% to 99%. The large range leaves room for misuse. Diaphragms do not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They can also cause urinary tract infections (UTIs).
When to see a doctor?
Call your doctor if you have any of the following problems:
- Vaginal pain.
- Trouble urinating.
- Painful or frequent urination.
- Vaginal itching.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge.
- Fever. This could be a sign of toxic shock syndrome.