Health Services
Self Care

Diaphragm

Instructions
Practice inserting and removing your diaphragm until you can do so easily, and feel confident with checking its position. If you are not confident and/or comfortable with the diaphragm and need contraceptive protection, use an additional contraceptive method.

Inspect the diaphragm each time you use it for defects or holes. Avoid using Vaseline with your diaphragm because it can cause deterioration of the latex. K-Y jelly can be used as a lubricant without harming the diaphragm.

Use the diaphragm with contraceptive jelly or cream whenever you have intercourse. Leave the diaphragm in place for a minimum of six hours after the last act of intercourse. Remember to insert an additional application of spermicidal foam or jelly if your diaphragm has been in place for more than two hours before sexual activity, or if you have intercourse more than one time.

Return to your physician if:

You lose of gain more than 10 or 20 pounds.

The diaphragm causes you discomfort or pain or if you have difficulty urinating with the diaphragm in place (try to reinsert it first).

You have concerns regarding fit or positioning of your diaphragm.

You have a baby.

You have any kind of pelvic surgery.

Your diaphragm should also be checked during your annual gynecological examination.

Care of Diaphragm
After use, your diaphragm should be washed with soap and water, thoroughly rinsed, and dried with a towel. Store it away from heat in its plastic container. You may dust it with cornstarch if you wish, but DO NOT use talcum or perfumed powder as these can cause the diaphragm to deteriorate. The latex material will normally discolor (become darker brown) over a period of time. Student Health recommends that you replace your diaphragm every two years.

Advantages
Many clinicians believe that the diaphragm and the spermicidal agent provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases. When used during menstrual flow, a diaphragm provides a barrier to vaginal flow of blood during intercourse, which may offer an aesthetic benefit for some couples. Do not leave your diaphragm in place for more than 8-10 hours during your period.

Disdvantages
Occasionally, a user or partner may find the spermicidal cream or jelly irritating. Changing to another brand usually resolves this problem. If sensitivity is due to the spermicidal agents, however, the method may have to be abandoned. An allergy to latex, although rare, may also necessitate discontinuation.

Pelvic pain, cramps, urinary retention, bladder symptoms, or recurrent bladder infections may also occur with diaphragm use. If changes in size and/or rim type do not resolve these problems, discontinuation may be indicated.

Foul smelling, profuse vaginal discharge may occur if the diaphragm is forgotten or left in place too long. Removal for cleansing is recommended at least once every 24 hours. Some women prefer to have two diaphragms to permit time for each to dry after use. Risk of toxic shock could result if the diaphragm is left in place for prolonged periods of time.

Effectiveness
Theoretically, the diaphragm is 97% effective when used correctly with each act of intercourse. The actual use effectiveness is 83%, considering non-use, misuse, and human or mechanical error.

More Information/Questions
Messiah College students may call Student Health Service at (717) 691-6035 for more information