Nowadays, women have a lot of contraception options available that are user friendly and effective. If you are looking for a convenient and temporary contraception method, the diaphragm birth control can be the perfect choice for you.

What is the Diaphragm?

The diaphragm is a rubber cup, like a dish, that is filled with a spermicidal gel or cream and inserted into the vagina. This cup has a flexible rim that fits within the vagina and covers the cervix. The diaphragm and the spermicidal prevent sperms to enter the uterus.

There are different sizes of diaphragms, so you have to ask your doctor to recommend you the appropriate size for your cervix.

How to use the Diaphragm for birth control?

You can put the diaphragm up to six hours before sex. Before insert it into the vagina you have to fill the diaphragm about two-thirds full of spermicidal, and smear a bit around the rim of the diaphragm.

You can insert easily the diaphragm in different positions: while you are lying down, squatting or standing with one leg up on a chair.

With one hand fold the diaphragm in half with the dome pointing down. With the other hand separate the lips of the vagina. Put the diaphragm into your vagina and push it as far as it will go. Use one finger to push the front rim of the diaphragm up behind your pubic bone.

You may have to practice how to insert it twice or three times before feeling comfortable.

After having sex, leave the diaphragm for about 6 hours and then take it out. If you have sex again before 6 hours, put more spermicidal into your vagina, but do not pull out the diaphragm. Do not leave the diaphragm more than 24 hours; it can cause some infection or irritation.

After taking the diaphragm out, wash it with mild soap and store it in its container. The diaphragm can last even until two years. You have to check regularly with your doctor in order to make sure the diaphragm still makes a perfect fit into your vagina.

How effective is the Diaphragm for birth control?

The diaphragm is 91 % effective if it is inserted correctly. Otherwise there could be 20% chances of getting pregnant.

What are the benefits of using the Diaphragm for birth control?

• The diaphragm has almost no health risks.

• The diaphragm is one of the best types of birth control and it is as effective as the contraception pill.

• There is no interruption during sex because it can be inserted up to 6 hours before intercourse.

What are the disadvantages of using the Diaphragm for birth control?

• Some women may have mild allergic reactions to rubber and spermicidal.

• Some women do not feel comfortable to insert objects into their vagina.