Diaphragm (contraceptive)

The diaphragm is a barrier method of contraception. It is a small soft rubber dome with a flexible rubber 'O'-ring moulded into the edge which the user fills with a spermicidal (sperm killing) cream, foam or gel before placing it in the vagina to wall off the cervix (the opening to the uterus), thus preventing sperm from entering. A diaphragm is very soft and flexible, and can be gently squeezed from its normal circular shape into a thin 'melon-slice' shape for easy insertion.

Related Topics:
Contraception - Spermicidal - Sperm - Vagina - Cervix - Uterus

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When fully inserted, the rim of this flexible cup (made of latex or medical silicone) sits an inch or so behind the pubic bone, and the rest of the rubber ring then naturally expands into a soft elliptical shape and settles against the front wall of the deepest part of the vagina, surrounding the cervix. It is most effective when used in tandem with spermicide, but if used alone, it is far more effective than spermicide alone. The spermicide should be applied just before insertion, and should be applied to the centre of the dome (which contacts the opening of the cervix) and around the contact surface of the rim.

Related Topics:
Latex - Cervix

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