What does preparing my diaphragm mean

To get either type of diaphragm, you need a prescription from your health care provider. During an office visit, your health care provider will demonstrate how to insert and remove the diaphragm — and may have you practice doing so, too. To confirm that the diaphragm is in the correct position, your health care provider may perform a pelvic exam.

Before you use the diaphragm for the first time, practice inserting the diaphragm until you're comfortable with it. You may want to use a backup method of contraception, such as a male condom, the first few times you use the diaphragm.

Always use the diaphragm with spermicidal cream, foam or gel. Avoid use of body lotions near your vagina and vaginal medications when using the diaphragm.

If you're using a diaphragm and douche, wait until at least six hours after sex to avoid washing away spermicide. Make sure you regularly check your diaphragm for puncture marks or cracks.

To search for holes, hold your diaphragm up to the light and gently stretch the rubber between your fingers or fill the diaphragm with water.

Replace your diaphragm at least every two years. You may need to have your diaphragm checked and possibly refitted if:. Before sex, the diaphragm is inserted into the vagina with spermicide.

The diaphragm covers the cervix and is held in place by the vaginal walls. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Sections for Diaphragm About. Overview Diaphragm Open pop-up dialog box Close.

Diaphragm A diaphragm is a reusable rubber or silicone cup that covers the cervix. Let your healthcare provider know if you think you have a UTI so you can be tested and treated. If you have recurrent UTIs while using a diaphragm, they may be related to the pressure that the rim puts on the urethra or to the spermicide, which can change the acidity and balance of bacteria in the vagina and allow bad bacteria to multiply. Your provider will recheck the fit and prescribe a different rim type or size, if appropriate.

If that doesn't solve the problem, you'll need to switch to a birth control method that doesn't require spermicide. If you're having vaginal irritation but testing shows no evidence of an infection, it may be due to an allergy or a sensitivity to rubber or to the spermicide.

If it's the rubber, you might try switching to a silicone diaphragm. If the spermicide is the culprit, you can try another brand. If that doesn't help, you'll need to find another method of birth control. You'll also need to make a change if your partner is allergic or sensitive to rubber or spermicide.

Diaphragm use is associated with an increased risk of toxic shock syndrome, a rare but severe illness caused by common bacteria that release toxins into the bloodstream. To reduce your risk, be sure to follow the instructions carefully, removing your diaphragm six to eight hours after having sex, and never leave it in for more than 24 hours after you first inserted it. Signs of toxic shock include: a sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, weakness, sore throat, achiness, redness of the eyes, and a rash like a sunburn.

Call your practitioner right away if you have a high fever and any of these other symptoms. Join now to personalize. What is a diaphragm? How reliable is the diaphragm for contraception? Can I use the diaphragm if I'm breastfeeding?

Will a diaphragm protect me from sexually transmitted infections? How can I get a diaphragm? How soon after childbirth can I use a diaphragm? How do I use a diaphragm? What should I do if I find that my diaphragm became dislodged during sex?

How will I know when I need a new diaphragm? Can I use a diaphragm while I have my period? Can I use a diaphragm while I'm using vaginal medications? Does the diaphragm cause any side effects or health problems? Who shouldn't use a diaphragm? Preparing to use your diaphragm When you first bring your diaphragm home, and before using it during sex, try inserting and wearing it for six hours or so.

Inserting your diaphragm You can insert your diaphragm up to two hours before sex. After you have intercourse After intercourse, check to make sure the diaphragm hasn't become dislodged. Removing your diaphragm To remove the diaphragm, wash your hands with soap and water, insert your index finger into your vagina, reach up behind your pubic bone, hook your finger behind the front rim, and pull down and out.

Caring for your diaphragm After each use, wash the diaphragm with plain, unscented soap and water, and check it again for holes or tears. You won't be able to use a diaphragm if: You're uncomfortable touching yourself or have trouble inserting the diaphragm correctly.

Either you or your partner is allergic or sensitive to spermicide. You've ever had toxic shock syndrome. Your cervix, vagina, or uterus has an unusual shape that doesn't allow for a good fit or your vaginal tone is too lax, so that the diaphragm doesn't stay in place.

You have recurrent UTIs while using a diaphragm and the problem persists even after trying a new size or type of diaphragm. The diaphragm won't protect you, and using spermicide frequently can make you more susceptible to STIs if exposed. Darienne Hosley Stewart. Featured video.

Condoms for women. Emergency contraception. Birth control pills: The Pill combined hormonal oral contraceptives. Condoms for men. Cervical cap and shield. Birth control shot: Depo-Provera. Birth control patch. New to BabyCenter? Join now. It is possible to get pregnant immediately when diaphragms are no longer used. The diaphragm does NOT provide protection from sexually transmitted infections. Is it reusable? Make sure you clean it after every sexual encounter and store it in a dry container.

Does the diaphragm work without spermicide? What is a Diaphragm? How does a diaphragm work? How effective is a diaphragm? What are the side effects or health risks of diaphragms? Is a diaphragm reversible? How much does a diaphragm cost? What about diaphragms and sexually transmitted diseases STIs? What are the pros and cons of the diaphragm?