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Overview:
The following describes the diaphragm and the cervical
cap,
2 prescription barrier methods of contraception.
Diaphragm:
A diaphragm is a soft rubber, latex, or silicone cup
that covers the cervix and stops sperm from entering
the
cervical
canal.
Learn more: What Is A Diaphragm? What
You Should Know About Diaphragms
Cervical
Cap: Like the diaphragm, the cervical
cap covers the cervix to prevent sperm entry. It is smaller
than the diaphragm and fits snugly over the cervix.
Learn more: What Is A Cervical Cap?
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DIAPHRAGM
What
Is A Diaphragm?
 A
diaphragm is a soft rubber, latex or silicone
cup that requires fitting by a physician or other
healthcare
professional. When it is properly fitted and inserted,
a diaphragm covers the cervix and is held securely
in place behind
the pubic bone and the rear wall of your vagina. The
diaphragm is designed to serve 2 purposes: it stops
sperm from entering your cervical canal, and it holds
a spermicidal jelly or
cream
which kills sperm that may manage to swim around the
rim of the diaphragm. The diaphragm should always
be used in combination with a spermicidal jelly or cream.
 To
avoid pregnancy, you must use the diaphragm
every time you have intercourse. The diaphragm
has a success rate of approximately 94% when used
properly, which means using it every time you
have intercourse, and adding additional spermicide
if you have sex again before removal. However, in
typical use, a diaphragm is 80% effective.
For
contraceptive effectiveness, the diaphragm should remain
in place for 6 hours after intercourse and should
be removed as soon as possible thereafter. Continuous
wearing of a contraceptive diaphragm for more than 24
hours is not recommended. Removal of the diaphragm before
6 hours may increase the risk of becoming pregnant.
 Do
not use oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly
when you use a diaphragm. The oil can damage the rubber.
Water-based lubricants such as K-Y®
Brand lubricating products are fine.
Learn more about Diaphragm
Products from Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc..
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What
You Should Know About the Diaphragm
Keeping
the diaphragm in for any period of time may encourage
the growth of certain bacteria in the vaginal
tract. It has been suggested that under certain
as yet unestablished conditions, overgrowth of
these bacteria may lead to symptoms of toxic
shock
syndrome (TSS), a serious condition which can
be fatal. An association has been reported between
diaphragm use and TSS. A diaphragm contains
natural rubber proteins. Persons sensitive to
natural rubber or latex may have an allergic
reaction
to the diaphragm. Your physician or other healthcare
professional can tell you if you are a suitable
candidate for a diaphragm.
The diaphragm must be cleaned and stored after
each use and periodically replaced. You should
frequently examine your diaphragm, holding the
diaphragm up to bright light to make sure there
are no cracks,
tears, or tiny holes in the dome or rim. Filling
the diaphragm with water is another way to check
for holes. You should get a new diaphragm about
every two years. If you undergo a physical change,
such as pregnancy or significant weight loss
or
gain, go to your physician or other healthcare
professional for another fitting before using
the device again.
A diaphragm may increase the risk of urinary
tract infections, especially if not properly
fitted.
Consult your physician or other healthcare professional
if you experience any of the signs or symptoms
of this type of infection.
For complete information on contraindications,
warnings, and adverse side effects associated
with using a diaphragm, please click
on the following brand's names to view the manufacturer's
US package inserts.
ALL-FLEX®
Arcing Spring Diaphragm
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CERVICAL
CAP
What Is A Cervical Cap?
Like
the diaphragm, the cervical cap is a barrier method
that covers the cervix to prevent sperm entry. A cervical
cap is smaller than a diaphragm and fits tightly
over the
cervix. You must be fitted for a cervical cap by a
physician or other healthcare professional. Spermicidal
jelly must be used with this device. Because of
the tighter fit, some women complain about difficulties
in removing the cervical cap.
The
cervical cap is more reliable for women who haven't
had a baby
than for those who have given birth. Experts say
the success rate is 91% when a cervical cap is used
consistently and correctly by women who have never
given birth
compared to a 74% success rate when used consistently
and correctly by women who have previously given birth.
However, the success rate for typical cervical cap
use is 60 to 80%.
The
cervical cap must be cleaned and stored after each
use
and requires periodic replacement. Like the diaphragm,
you should frequently examine the cervical cap, holding
it up to bright light to make sure there are no cracks,
tears, or tiny holes in the dome or rim. Again, like
the diaphragm, filling the
cervical cap with water is another way to check for
holes.
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What
You Should Know About The Cervical Cap
When
you first begin to use your cervical cap, you
should have a Pap
test taken within a few months. It is difficult
to insert and may be
dislodged or expelled. After sex, the cervical
cap should be left in place
for at least 6 hours, but not longer than 36 hours.
A cervical cap may cause irritation or odor in
the vagina, especially if left in too long.
It should not be worn during your menstrual period.
Persons sensitive to natural rubber or latex may
have an allergic
reaction to the cervical cap. Your physician or
other healthcare
professional can tell you if you are a suitable
candidate for the cervical
cap. Do not use oil-based lubricants such as petroleum
jelly when you
use a cervical cap. The oil can damage the rubber.
Water-based
lubricants such as K-Y® Brand lubricating
products are fine.
If you undergo a physical change, such as pregnancy
or significant
weight loss or gain, go to your physician or other
healthcare
professional for another fitting of the cervical
cap before using the
device again.
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