Diaphragm for Birth Control

The diaphragm is used to prevent pregnancy. It is called a barrier method because it keeps the sperm and eggs apart. It is usually made of silicone and shaped like a dome, and it has a firm, flexible rim. It fits inside your vagina and covers the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus.

You use the diaphragm each time you have vaginal sex. You must use spermicide with it.

Before vaginal sex, apply spermicide to the diaphragm and place it in your vagina. If you have sex more than 1 to 2 hours after placement, apply more spermicide to your vagina. If you have sex more than one time when the diaphragm is in place, apply more spermicide each time. Leave the diaphragm in place for at least 6 hours after sex. Do not leave it in for more than 24 hours.

You need a prescription from your doctor for a diaphragm. Depending on the type of diaphragm, you may need to be fitted for the right size by your doctor. A diaphragm will last for 1 to 2 years.

How well does it work?

• When the diaphragm with spermicide is used exactly as directed, it is about 84% effective for preventing pregnancy. This means that about 16 out of 100 people who use it will have an unplanned pregnancy.
• When it is not used exactly as directed, it is about 83% effective. This means that about 17 out of 100 people who use it will have an unplanned pregnancy.

There is less chance of getting pregnant if you and your partner use an external (male) condom with the diaphragm.

What should you think about when using the diaphragm for birth control?

Some pros of using the diaphragm

• The diaphragm doesn't use hormones. So you can use the diaphragm if you don't want to take hormones or can't take hormones because you have certain health problems or concerns.
• The diaphragm is safe to use while breastfeeding.
• It doesn't affect your menstrual cycle.
• It costs less than hormonal types of birth control.
• The diaphragm can be inserted up to 6 hours ahead of time so you don't have to interrupt sex.
• The diaphragm can't be felt by you or your partner.

Some cons of using the diaphragm

• The diaphragm doesn't prevent pregnancy as well as IUDs or hormonal forms of birth control.
• It prevents pregnancy only if you use it every time you have vaginal sex.
• The diaphragm doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes or HIV. If you're not sure whether your partner might have an STI, use an external (male) condom to protect against infection.
• You may have to interrupt sex to insert the diaphragm. You also have to put spermicide in it every time you use it.
• Spermicide used with the diaphragm can cause irritation to the vagina or penis and can increase your risk for urinary tract infections.
• You may not be comfortable with inserting the diaphragm each time you have vaginal sex.