How can I obtain a diaphragm?

• Introduction
• Abortion
• Amenorrhoea
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• Rhythm Method
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• Diaphragm
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Diaphragm

These can be obtained either from your local general practitioner or a family planning clinic. The correct size of diaphragm is determined by a doctor trained in family planning. The caps are measured across the external diameter and there is a range from 50 to 100 mm in 5mm steps. The doctor will check at a follow up visit that you have learned to introduce the diaphragm correctly.

During intercourse the vagina enlarges so that unlike male or female sheaths the diaphragm cannot provide a complete barrier to sperm. The objective of the diaphragm is to retain spermicide in the area of the cervix and prevent motile sperm from entering the cervical mucus. The cervical cap should stay attached to the cervix by suction and it is a more effective barrier method than the diaphragm. The diaphragm should remain in place for at least six hours after intercourse and it is then removed and washed in soapy water.

It is wise to check the diaphragm from time to time to ensure that there is no damage. It should be held up to the light to see that there are no holes and the outer ring should quickly return to its round shape after squeezing. A diaphragm will usually last for about two years. If it is lost, a replacement of the correct size can be purchased at a chemist.

Pregnancy rates vary between 2-15 per 100 women years (Pearl Index).

The advantages and disadvantages of vaginal methods of birth control are summarised in Table 13.3.

Table 13. 3

Advantages and Disadvantages of Vaginal Methods of birth control

Advantages	Disadvantages
Vaginal methods are effective if used correctly.	You may not be happy with introducing and removing the diaphragm.
They are cheap	requires a doctor to fit and check it.
Female partner takes responsibility.	requires preparation and is not, therefore, totally spontaneous.
No interruption during intercourse.	Some male partners are aware of the cap and may not like it.
No loss of sensation for either partner.	No protection against viral conditions such as herpes simplex (3) or HIV(HIV / AIDS).
Reduced incidence of bacteria related sexually transmitted diseases (Q 20.2),	Occasionally, there may be allergy to the rubber or spermicide.
Couples may feel less inhibited when the woman is menstruating.	Cannot be fitted before first intercourse (virgo intacta), if there is a vaginal septum (Q3.3) or utero-vaginal prolapse ( 1).
Cervical dysplasia (pre-malignancy      (Q17.18) and cervical malignancy are reduced.

 

Please click on the required question.

• 1 How important is effective contraception for the world's population?
• 2 How long can my partner's sperm survive in me?
•  3 How long are my eggs capable of fertilisation?
• 4 How long does my fertile phase last?
• 5 What is an ideal contraceptive?
• 6 How can the effectiveness of a contraceptive method be measured?
• 7 Can knowledge of the fertile phase be used for effective contraception?
• 8 I am breast-feeding my baby. Do I need contraception?
• 9 How effective is coitus interruptus?
• 10 How effective are condoms (sheaths)
• 11 What are the advantages and disadvantages of condoms?
• 12 How long have vaginal methods of contraception been available?
• 13 How can I get a diaphragm (cap)
• 14 How can the cap be checked?
• 15 How effective are diaphragms and caps?
• 16 What are the advantages and disadvantages of vaginal methods?
• 17 What is the contraceptive sponge?
• 18 How effective is the contraceptive sponge?
• 19 What is the female condom?
• 20 What are the advantages and disadvantages of female condoms?
• 21 How effective are spermicides?
• 22 What are the advantages and disadvantages of spermicides?
• 23 Which contraceptives are appropriate for an adolescent?
• 24 Which contraceptives are appropriate for a woman in her forties?
• 25 If I am taking the combined oral contraceptive pill or cyclical HRT, how can I tell when I have reached my menopause?
• 26 How effective is the Persona Unipath Personal Contraceptive System?
• 27 Where can I obtain further information about contraception?
• 28 Support Groups.

Thank you for choosing to visit us.

This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.

I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.