Diaphragm

The diaphragm is a soft, thin rubber cup with a flexible ring around the outer edge. It is designed to hold contraceptive jelly or cream and is placed over the cervix inside the vagina to prevent pregnancy.  The diaphragm works by keeping a contraceptive jelly or cream in place around the cervix and acting as a physical barrier to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg.

If used properly, the diaphragm has a theoretical failure rate of 3%. In actual use, it has a 13 to 17% failure rate. 

How is the diaphragm used?

  1. Hold the diaphragm up to a light to see if there are any holes.

  2. Put at least two teaspoons of contraceptive cream or jelly into the dome of the diaphragm.  Using a finger, coat the rim and the outside with jelly.

  3. Before any sexual contact, place the diaphragm into the vagina as instructed.

  4. Check to make sure that the cervix is covered by running index and middle fingers over the surface of the diaphragm.  Also check to see that the rim is properly positioned behind the pubic bone.

  5. If the diaphragm is inserted more than one hour before having intercourse, insert an applicator full of contraceptive jelly or cream into the vagina before intercourse.

  6. Insert an applicator full of contraceptive jelly or cream into the vagina each time intercourse is repeated.

  7. The diaphragm must remain in place for at least 8 hours after the last intercourse. Do not douche during this period.

  8. Remove the diaphragm by grasping the rim and pulling downward.  Wash it with mild soap and water, rinse in clean water, and dry thoroughly.  Store in cool, dry place. Do not expose the diaphragm to sunlight; it will cause disintegration of the rubber.

Possible side effects

Occasionally an allergic reaction to the jelly or cream occurs; try changing to another brand of cream or jelly.  If the diaphragm is left in place more than 24 hours, malodorous discharge and vaginitis (vaginal itching and pain) may occur. Bladder infections that keep returning may be due to pressure of the diaphragm rim.

Important information and precautions

  1. To be effective, the diaphragm must be used EVERY TIME you have intercourse.  Insert the diaphragm before any type of intimate contact.

  2. The diaphragm must not be left in place for more than 24 hours.

  3. The diaphragm may be more comfortable if the bowel is emptied before insertion.

  4. Use ONLY contraceptive cream or jelly with the diaphragm. Other products such as Vaseline are not contraceptives and may destroy the rubber.

To learn more or to determine if this is the right birth control option for you, talk with your Oakdale ObGyn doctor or nurse practitioner.