Diaphragm and Cervical Cap - Page 8

What is it?

A diaphragm is a shallow rubber cup that is placed inside the vagina.  It covers the cervix and holds spermicide directly over the cervix to help prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Spermicidal jelly or cream MUST be used with the diaphragm.

A cervical cap is a deep rubber cup with a firm rim.  It fits snugly on the cervix and prevents sperm from entering the uterus. Spermicide is also used inside the cervical cap.

What do I need to know about using a diaphragm or cervical cap?

• Both methods must be fitted by a health care professional.

• Neither partner should be aware of the diaphragm or cervical cap during intercourse.

• The diaphragm and the cap can be put into place several hours prior to the act of intercourse and do not require any active involvement on the part of a male partner. However, both can be easily incorporated into sexual foreplay and if desired the male partner can learn how to insert a diaphragm or cap.

• For optimal effectiveness the diaphragm or the cap must be in place PRIOR TO any penetration.

• It is not necessary to immediately withdraw the penis from the vagina after ejaculation.

• Women with allergies to spermicides are not good candidates for using either the diaphragm or cap.

• Use of a diaphragm or cervical cap offers some protection against sexually transmitted infections, specifically gonorrhea and chlamydia, syphilis, hepatitis B and HIV. They offer little or no protection against the transmission of herpes or genital warts.

• You will be instructed in the proper method of inserting the diaphragm or cap when it is fitted. You may want to practice placing and removing it before you rely on it as your only method of birth control. You may also use a condom when using either the diaphragm or cap.

• A woman needs to be comfortable with touching and inserting her finger into the vagina to comfortable using either the diaphragm or cap.

Specifically about the diaphragm:

• Prior to insertion, you should check the diaphragm for tiny holes or tears.

• The diaphragm must remain in place for a minimum of 6 hours after the LAST act of intercourse. Early removal will lessen the effectiveness. It should not be worn longer than 24 hours.

• If an additional act of intercourse is going to occur, DO NOT remove the diaphragm. Simply insert an extra applicator of spermicide into the vagina.

• When a diaphragm is placed in the vagina, the vaginal wall expands around the diaphragm. The rim of the diaphragm fits snugly behind the pubic bone and extends behind the cervix, so that the cervix is covered by the dome of the diaphragm

• After removal, simply wash with warm soap and water, pat dry and place it in the storage container. Keep it easily available so you don’t have to find it the next time it is needed.

• The diaphragm is available at McKinley Health Center. Call 333-2700 and select Women’s Health to schedule an appointment. Be sure to tell the receptionist that you want to have a diaphragm fitting. Extra time is allowed so that you can practice insertion and removal.

• The cervical cap must remain in place for a minimum of 6 hours after the LAST act of intercourse.

• The cap can be left in place for up to 48 hours and multiple acts of intercourse may occur without any additional spermicide.

• It is important to check to see that it remains in place if multiple acts of intercourse occur.

• The cervical cap is not available at McKinley Health Center.

• When used with each act of intercourse, and inserted prior to any penetration, diaphragms are 82-94% effective.

• The cervical cap is 82-91% effective when properly inserted and used with every act of intercourse.

For additional information refer to: The Diaphragm

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