Diaphragms

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-07-2004
Diaphragms
1
Mon, 06-07-2004 - 2:11am
Is it true that diaphragms are not a very effective or sure form of birth control because they shift when the woman is in certain positions, like if the woman is on top for instance? Is this true?
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
In reply to: mizelijahwood
Mon, 06-07-2004 - 9:45am
Hi mizelijahwood, welcome!

There is no 100% effective form of birth control, except abstinence. A properly fitted diaphragm used correctly for every act of IC is a very effective form of contraception! Deep penetration positions such as the woman on top or taken from behind are the most severe test of whether the wearer has a good fit. Since the vagina expands during arousal testing her fit under actual conditions is the only sure way to see how well it will work for her. That is why a new diaphragm user should be advised to use condoms for the first few acts of IC with her diaphragm inserted to see how it will perform. She and her partner should use as many positions and be as energetic as possible to see if they can dislodge it. With deep penetration (depending on the couple’s anatomies) it may be that her partner can feel the rim and they would prefer another barrier choice. A cervical cap also has the same initial testing requirements for proper fit as with deep penetration if the fit is not good there is greater likelihood of dislodgment. My experience with a Milex diaphragm and Oves cervical cap is that with a good fit it is very difficult to dislodge them. In two years of frequent use I’ve never had a dislodgment. If you want to know more about diaphragms see the information in the FAQs on the Board’s webpage at: http://pages.ivillage.com/cl-judie_rae/id1.html If you have more questions, please ask.

Good luck

      Jill