Diaphragm and Me
... Back to the top of the page How does a diaphragm or cap work? A diaphragm or cap stops sperm reaching an egg. ... Can anything make a diaphragm or cap less effective? A diaphragm or cap will be less effective if: · you dont use it every time you have sex · it doesnt cover your cervix · you use it without spermicide · you have sex three hours or more after you put a rubber diaphragm or cap in and you dont use extra spermicide · you dont use extra spermicide every time you have more sex with rubber diaphragms or caps · you dont leave it in for six hours after the last time you had sex · you use oil-based products with rubber diaphragms or caps. Back to the top of the page What are the different types of diaphragm and cap? There are three types of vaginal diaphragm: flat, coil, or arcing spring. ... What are the advantages of a diaphragm or cap? ... Back to the top of the page What are the disadvantages of a diaphragm or cap? ... · Cystitis can be a problem for some women who use a diaphragm. Ask the doctor or nurse to check the size of your diaphragm if you suffer from cystitis. Changing to a slightly smaller or softer-rimmed (coil spring) diaphragm or to a cervical cap may help. ... Can anyone use a diaphragm or cap? Most women can use a diaphragm or cap. There are however some conditions which may mean you should not use a diaphragm or cap, eg if you: · have vaginal muscles which cant hold a diaphragm · have a cervix of an unusual shape or in an awkward position or you cannot reach it · are sensitive to rubber or spermicide · have repeated urinary infections · have a vaginal infection (wait until after the infection has cleared) · have ever had toxic shock syndrome · do not feel comfortable touching your vagina. Back to the top of the page How do I put a diaphragm in? A doctor or nurse will show you how to put your diaphragm in, by following these steps: · With clean hands, put two strips of spermicide cream or jelly on each side of the diaphragm. ... Some women find that putting a little spermicide on the rim makes the diaphragm easier to put in. · Put your index finger on top of the diaphragm and squeeze the diaphragm between your thumb and other fingers. · Slide the diaphragm into your vagina downwards and backwards. This will make sure that the diaphragm covers your cervix. The diaphragm can be inserted dome up or dome down - whichever you find easier. ... If it is not covered, take the diaphragm out by hooking your finger under the rim or loop and pulling downwards and try again. Some women squat while they put their diaphragm in. ... Back to the top of the page How do I take my diaphragm or cap out? ... You can leave it for longer, but dont leave a rubber cap or diaphragm in for more than 30 hours.