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By Mayo Clinic staff
To use the diaphragm:
- Apply spermicide. Fill the diaphragm's bowl with about 2 teaspoons (10 milliliters) of spermicide. Spread a thin layer of spermicide around the rim of the diaphragm with your finger. Use only water-based lubricants with the diaphragm.
- Insert the diaphragm. Find a comfortable position, such as standing with one foot propped up, squatting or lying on your back. Separate your labia with one hand. With the other hand, hold the diaphragm with the bowl facing upward and squeeze the diaphragm between your thumb, index and middle fingers. Slide the diaphragm into your vagina and push it along the back wall of your vagina as far as it will go. Use your index finger to push the front rim of the diaphragm up behind your pubic bone.
- Check the diaphragm's position before sex. Make sure you can feel your cervix through the soft dome of the diaphragm. After inserting the diaphragm, apply spermicide inside the vagina before each time you have sex. If the diaphragm is dislodged during sex, reapply spermicide.
- Gently remove the diaphragm. After sex, leave the diaphragm in place for at least six hours and up to 24 hours. To remove the diaphragm, hook your finger under the front rim of the diaphragm and gently pull it down and out of your vagina. If the diaphragm is difficult to remove, insert your finger between the rim of the diaphragm and your vaginal wall to break any suction. After removal, wash the diaphragm with mild soap and warm water and allow it to air-dry. Store the diaphragm in its provided container.
References
- 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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