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By Mayo Clinic staffThe diaphragm comes in different sizes. Your health care provider will fit you for the diaphragm and demonstrate how to insert and remove the diaphragm. He or she may confirm that the diaphragm is in the correct position by doing a pelvic exam.
Before you use the diaphragm for the first time, practice inserting the diaphragm until you're comfortable with it. You may want to use a backup method of contraception, such as a male condom, when you're first using the diaphragm.
Always use the diaphragm with spermicidal cream, foam or gel. Avoid use of body lotions near your vagina and vaginal medications when using the diaphragm. If you're using a diaphragm and douche, wait until at least six hours after sex to avoid washing away spermicide.
Make sure you regularly check your diaphragm for puncture marks or cracks. To search for holes, hold your diaphragm up to the light and gently stretch the rubber between your fingers or fill the diaphragm with water. Replace your diaphragm at least every two years. You may need to have your diaphragm checked and possibly refitted if:
- Your diaphragm no longer fits snugly or comfortably
- You've given birth or had an abortion
- You've had pelvic surgery
- You've gained or lost more than 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms)
- You have repeated urinary tract infections
- You or your partner feels pain or pressure during sex
- Barbieri RL. How to fit and use a diaphragm for contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 16, 2011.
- Choosing a method of birth control. The Association of Reproductive Health Professionals. http://www.arhp.org/Publications-and-Resources/Quick-Reference-Guide-for-Clinicians/choosing/Cervical-Cap. Accessed Nov. 14, 2011.
- Birth control methods fact sheet. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/birth-control-methods.cfm. Accessed Nov. 16, 2011.
- Barrier methods of contraception. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/faq/faq022.cfm. Accessed Nov. 16, 2011.
- Diaphragm fact sheet. Office of Population Affairs. http://www.hhs.gov/opa/reproductive-health/contraception/diaphragm/. Accessed Nov. 16, 2011.
- Cates W, et al. Vaginal barriers and spermicides. In: Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 20th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media, Inc.; 2011:391.
- Ortho all-flex diaphragm fitting set. Titusville, N.J.: Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceutical Inc.; 2008. http://www.janssenpharmaceuticalsinc.com/our-products/product-list. Accessed Nov. 17, 2011.
- Female-controlled barrier methods. In: Zieman M, et al. A Pocket Guide to Managing Contraception. Tiger, Ga.: Bridging the Gap Communications; 2010:63.
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