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Diaphragms and cervical caps are soft rubber barriers
that cover the cervix and prevent sperm from entering the uterus. A
diaphragm is a shallow and domed shaped with a flexible rim. Both diaphragms
and cervical caps are used with spermicidal cream or jelly that immobilizes
sperm.
A physician or clinician performs a pelvic exam and can give a prescription
for either a diaphragm or a cervical cap. S/he will also demonstrate
how to insert and remove it. This exam can be performed at Brandeis
Health Services.
Before inserting the diaphragm or cervical cap, check the latex for
holes by holding it up to the light. Be sure to fill it about one-third
full with spermicidal jelly or foam before use. In order to increase
effectiveness, completely check that the cervix is covered every time
the diaphragm is used. Also, reinsert spermicide if intercourse is to
be repeated or if two hours have passed since the last application of
spermicide. As diaphragms do not protect against most STDs/STIs,
a condom can be used not only to increase effectiveness, but also to
protect against STDs/STIs.
Do not leave a diaphragm in for more than eight hours or a cervical
cap in for more than 48 hours at a time. After each use, wash the diaphragm
or cervical cap with soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and let it air-dry.
Store it in its plastic case away from heat. Don't use powder on the
diaphragm. Make sure to regularly check for holes or weak spots by examining
the diaphragm.
Some advantages of using a diaphragm are:
Some drawbacks to using diaphragms are:
They can be difficult to use They need to be used every time intercourse occurs They can become dislodged if the woman is on top during intercourse Women prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) may not be able to
use them There is a small risk of bladder infections when using them There is a small risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) when using them A woman might need to get a new one after a weight gain or loss
of ten or more pounds, or after a miscarriage or abortion after
14 weeks of pregnancy
How To Use the Diaphragm
Insert up to six hours before intercourse. Put about a teaspoonful of contraceptive cream or jelly in the cup
and spread some around the rim. (Never use Vaseline or cold cream.
They damage rubber and do not kill sperm.) Find a comfortable position-stand with one foot on a chair, sit
on the edge of a chair, lie down, or squat. Separate the labia with one hand and, with the other, pinch the
rim of the diaphragm to fold it in half. Place index finger in center
of fold for a firmer grip. The contraceptive cream or jelly must be
inside the fold. Push as far up and back in the vagina as possible, tuck behind the
pubic bone, and make sure the cervix is covered.
It may be inserted several hours in advance of vaginal intercourse
and must stay in place six to eight hours after the last intercourse.
If intercourse is repeated or occurs more than six hours after insertion,
leave the diaphragm in place and insert another application of contraceptive
cream, jelly, or foam into the vagina. To remove, hook a finger over the top of the rim to break the suction;
then pull the diaphragm down and out. Do not leave the diaphragm in place for more than 24 hours. Women who have difficulty inserting the diaphragm may need to use
a special inserter to help with correct placement and removal. Do not use during vaginal bleeding.
How To Use the Cervical Cap
Fill the dome of the cap 1/3 full of spermicide. Find a comfortable position-stand with one foot on a chair, sit
on the edge of a chair, lie down, or squat. Locate your cervix. Separate the labia with one hand and squeeze the cap rim together
with the other. Hold the cap dome side down, slide it into the vagina, and push
it up and onto the cervix. Press the rim into place on the cervix, pinch the rounded end to
create suction, then twist the cap like the lid of a jar. Sweep a finger around the cap to make sure the cervix is completely
covered and there are no gaps. The cap must stay in place eight hours after the last intercourse.
To remove, push the rim away from the cervix to break the suction
and pull the cap out. Do not leave the cap in place for longer than 48 hours. Do not use during vaginal bleeding.
Sources:
"Diaphragms and Cervical Caps," http://www.plannedparenthood.org/BIRTH-CONTROL/DIAPHRAGMS.HTM,
11/30/01.
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