The diaphragm is a birth control device that is worn inside the vagina during sexual intercourse. It is a round dome of soft rubber, about three inches in diameter. It prevents pregnancy by covering the cervix (opening to the uterus) and by holding a sperm killing cream or gel against the cervix. The diaphragm MUST BE USED WITH A SPERMICIDAL CREAM OR GEL.

The diaphragm cannot get lost in the vagina. There are no serious side effects associated with diaphragm usages. If you or your partner is allergic to the spermicidal cream, you can try a different brand.

Each woman must be individually fitted for her diaphragm by a physician or qualified specialist. Not every women can be properly fitted for a diaphragm due to variations in the vaginal walls. The fit of your diaphragm should be checked periodically, especially after childbirth or a significant change in weight.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Inspecting the Diaphragm.

The diaphragm should be carefully checked for damage BEFORE it is used. There are two ways of doing this:

1) Hold the diaphragm up to a light to make sure there are no holes.

2) Fill the diaphragm carefully with water. If there are any holes, the water will leak through.

If the rubber does not look smooth and perfect, return it to your doctor or family planning clinic immediately for a replacement.

Inserting the Diaphragm.

The diaphragm can be inserted up to two hours before intercourse.

To be effective, the diaphragm has to be used with a contraceptive cream or gel available at the drugstore. At least one teaspoonful of the contraceptive agent is inserted into the dome of the diaphragm and spread around so that it covers the surface and the rim of the diaphragm. Same women spread the gel on both sides of the diaphragm for even more protection.

The diaphragm is inserted into the vagina as far as it will go. To be sure it is in proper position, feel for your cervix behind the diaphragm. It may be inserted while standing, squatting, or lying down. If you like, the diaphragm can be inserted before intercourse by your partner during love-making.

If the diaphragm has been in place for longer than two hours prior to intercourse, an additional applicatorful of contraceptive cream or gel should be inserted into the vagina without removing the diaphragm.

Each time intercourse is repeated, with the diaphragm left in place, insert one applicatorful of the spermicidal agent (cream or gel) into the vagina just before intercourse.

IMPORTANT: The diaphragm MUST be left in the vagina at least six (6) hours after the last intercourse. DO NOT DOUCHE before removing the diaphragm.

Removing the Diaphragm

After waiting at least six hours after the last intercourse, insert your finger up and over the topside of the diaphragm. When the suction is broken, pull it down and out gently.

The diaphragm is not as effective as birth control pills or the IUD : but it is a very effective method of birth control if you use it correctly every time you have intercourse and ALWAYS with the spermicidal cream or gel. It is less convenient and requires more work than birth control pills or the IUD. It is, however, a good birth control method for women who wish to avoid side effects and who are highly motivated to avoid pregnancy.

If you have further questions concerning the Diaphragm and its use, please contact your physician or family planning clinic counselor.

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