DIAPHRAGM
History:
The
diaphragm has been used for contraception since the early
1900s in Europe, and shortly thereafter in the United States.
Design and comfort improvements have been made in the past
century, but the basic concept remains the same.
How
it works:
The diaphragm is a dome-shaped rubber cup with a flexible
rim. The woman applies spermicide cream or gel on the inside
of the cup and inserts it into her vagina with her fingers
so that it fits snugly over her cervix. After intercourse,
the diaphragm MUST be left in place for at least 6 hours.
It should not be worn for more than 24 hours, however, because
of the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome.
A
diaphragm provides effective contraception for 6 hours at
a timeÑafter that, the diaphragm must be removed and cleaned.
It can then be prepared with spermicide and reinserted before
having intercourse again.
When
not in use the diaphragm is stored in a plastic carrying
case. Diaphragms are reusable and are not disposable. It
is recommended that they be replaced every two years or
so. Like other contraceptive methods, the diaphragm can
be used during a womanÕs period.
A
diaphragm must be prescribed by a doctor as it must be fitted
to each individual womanÕs unique anatomical size and needs.
There are four types of diaphragms, and they come in a variety
of sizes. Precise fitting is importantÑtoo tight a fit may
cause discomfort; too loose may allow sperm to enter the
cervix and result in pregnancy.
Who
Should and Should Not Use It:
A diaphragm requires the presence of mind and commitment
to remember to use it before sex. Women who have frequent
"unplanned" sex, who have sex three or more times per week,
who are younger than 30 and who have had contraceptive failure
in the past are more likely to get pregnant with this method.
You must also be comfortable with inserting your fingers
and the device deep into your vagina in order to properly
use this device.
Summary of the Diaphragm
| Effectiveness
(Failure Rate) |
Typical
Use: 20 pregnancies/100 women/year (80% effective)
Perfect
Use: 6 pregnancies/100 women/year (94% effective)
|
| Benefits |
No
side effects (unless allergic to all spermicides)
Does
not affect hormones
DonÕt
have to rely on male partner
Possible
lower risk of cervical cancer (controversial
|
| Risks |
Still
no real protection against STDs (spermicides may prevent
some STD transmission)
If
you donÕt remember to use it on or bring it with you,
itÕs useless
Latex-allergic
people should use non-latex diaphragms
Small
risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (2 - 3 per 100,000) for
all women using vaginal barrier methods (diaphragm,
cervical cap, sponge, female condom)
|
|
STD
Protection
|
Poor
to none though spermicide may kill some STDs |
| How
to Get It |
Your
doctor must do a fitting and then prescribes it. |
| Cost |
Initial
Cost: $50 to $150, depending on ones health insurance
coverage
Ongoing
cost: spermicide (averages to about 25 cents per coital
act)
|
