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Diaphragm
What is a diaphragm?
The diaphragm is a soft
rubber dome shaped barrier that covers the cervix in order to
prevent sperm from entering into the uterus. It is a barrier
method of birth control.
How does the diaphragm
work?
The diaphragm works by
blocking most sperm from entering the uterus. Spermicide is
added to the diaphragm to kill any sperm that may get around
the protective barrier.
How effective is a
diaphragm?
The diaphragm has a
failure rate of approximately 5% for correct and consistent
use. Typical use, which is the average way diaphragms are used,
has a failure rate of approximately 18 - 20%. This means that
18 to 20 people out of every 100 will become pregnant during
the first year of use. You should take a pregnancy test if you
are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.
What are the side effects or health
risks of diaphragms?
The most common side
effect you could experience from using a diaphragm is vaginal
irritation. Latex allergies, history of toxic shock syndrome,
or irregularities of the vagina or cervix could create
additional risks.
Is a diaphragm
reversible?
Yes. A diaphragm does
not have any effects on either the male or female reproductive
function. It is possible to get pregnant immediately when
diaphragms are no longer used.
How much does a diaphragm
cost?
There are three fees
associated with the use of a diaphragm: 1) the office visit, 2)
the diaphragm, and 3) the spermicidal agent.
What about diaphragms and sexually
transmitted diseases (STD's)?
The diaphragm does NOT
provide protection from sexually transmitted
diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions About the
Diaphragm:
Is the diaphragm
reusable? The diaphragm is reusable. Make sure you
clean it after every sexual encounter and store it in a dry
container.
Does the
diaphragm work without spermicide? The diaphragm does
provide some protection against pregnancy without using
spermicidal agents, but this tends to show higher failure rates
of 20% or more.
What are the pros and cons of the
diaphragm?
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