What is a diaphragm?
The diaphragm is a soft latex rubber cup that should be used
with spermicidal jelly or cream. A woman inserts a diaphragm into her vagina, fitting it
over the cervix, shortly before sexual intercourse and leaves it in place for at least 6
hours after intercourse.
How does a diaphragm work? (Mechanism of action)
- The diaphragm blocks sperm from entering the uterine cavity
- Spermicides provide additional protection by damaging the
sperm
Who can use a diaphragm?
Women of any reproductive age and parity who:
- Want to use this method of contraception
- Have no contraindications
Who should not use a diaphragm?
(For more information see WHO eligibility criteria)
Women who have the following conditions (contraindications):
- Are less than 6 weeks postpartum
- Allergy to latex
- History of toxic shock syndrome
- Certain anatomical abnormalities of the cervix and vagina
Advantages
- Woman-controlled method
- Possible to use without a male partner's knowledge
- Offers contraception only when needed
- Effective if used correctly with every act of sexual
intercourse
- Has no systemic side effects
- No impact on lactation
- Can be stopped any time
- Can be inserted up to 6 hours before sex to avoid interrupting
sex
- Provides some protection from STDs
- Reduces risk of cervical neoplasia
- Contains menstrual flow when used during menses
Disadvantages
- Requires fitting by a family planning provider, involving a
pelvic examination
- A woman may need a different size diaphragm after childbirth
- Requires having the method on hand and taking correct action
before each act of sexual intercourse
- Less effective contraception than IUDs or systemic methods
- Interrupts sex if not inserted beforehand
- May be messy to use
- Possible side effects (usually local irritation) or allergic
reaction to latex (rare)
- Should be washed with soap and clean water after each use
- Needs careful storage to avoid developing holes
- Requires a steady supply of spermicide
Possible side effects
- Can cause local irritation, itching, vaginal wall lesions if
ill-fitting
- Increases risk of urinary tract infections
Provide follow-up and counseling for:
- Any client concern
- Possible side effects
- Importance of correct and consistent use
powered by www.fhi.org
