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Diaphragm
What is Diaphragm?
This is another
barrier birth control method used by women to prevent sperm entering into uterus
via vagina. Diaphragm is made of thin flexible rubber and looks similar to dome
or cup having the flexible ring on the top. Diaphragm should be covered on both
the sides and must be used along with spermicidal cream jelly or foam for greater
protection against sperm.
How to use diaphragm?
The diaphragm with
spermcide is put into the vagina to cover the cervix or the neck of the womb to
prevent sperm entering into. It must be inserted atleast 4 hours prior to have
intercourse along with spermicide. Before inserting your diaphragm, you will need
to place spermicide jelly or cream inside of the cup of the diaphragm and its
edges. However you will need to use spermicide inside of your vagina every two
hours or each time you plan to have intercourse.
You should not remove
it for atleast 6 hours after the sexual activity. Do not leave the diaphragm inside
the vagina for more than 24 hours after having had the sex.
Advantages of
diaphragm :
- it is available on drugstore without prescription
- it
is easy to use and can be easily inserted and removed
- it is inexpensive
and can be re-used many times.
- it does not effect menstrual cycle or future
fertility
- it is reversible. It does not affect male or female's reproductive
orgasm.
- convenient to use only when desire to have intercourse, hence it
is completely in the control
- Diaphragm used with spermicidal jelly or cream
is 91% effective. But chances may vary depending upon how you use it and take
precautions
Disadvantages of diaphragm :
- if left for more than
24 hours after the sexual activity, it may increase the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome
(TSS)
- chances of bladder infection may increase due to prolong use
-
if diaphragm left for long hours, strong odors or vaginal discharge could be experienced
- some women may feel irritation due to spermicides used with diaphragm but
it should go away with the change in the brands
- does not guarantee of protection
against STDs, however, spermicides may provide some protection against diseases
like chlamydia. against gonorrhea
Unlike other barrier birth control, it
is to be suggested by the healthcare practitioner or doctor because it comes in
different sizes. It must also be periodically checked, atleast twice a year, to
see it comes fit well, specially when you gain or lose weight or you become pregnant
or given the baby birth. It may not fit properly if the girl used it when she
was virgin and now she is having intercourse. Not every woman can use it comfortably
as it requires knowledge and instruction. Your health practitioner or doctor will
instruct how to insert or remove it properly. It is to be carefully removed with
the fingers without breaking the diaphragm rubber with your fingernails. Wash
it with warm water and mild soap. Do not use talcum powder or any other oil-based
liquid for cleansing purpose or else it may harm the diaphragm rubber wall to
crack.
Next : Cervical
Cap
