Diaphragm Questions: PLEASE HELP

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-20-2006
Diaphragm Questions: PLEASE HELP
5
Tue, 10-03-2006 - 1:25pm

I recently went off hormones (was on BCP/Nuvaring for 8 years) and decided to get a diaphragm and use Fertility Awareness Method for preventing pregnancy. I have been doing a lot of research on diaphragms but need to have a few things cleared up. I have an appointment at Planned Parenthood this week to get a diaphragm.

I have been told that the best time to get fitted for a diaphragm is after ovulation because the cervix is in a higher position. I was also told that I may need different sizes throughout the month depending on the position of my cervix. Is this true? If so, does that mean I need to get fitted throughout the month to see if I need different sizes? It's not easy for me to get in to the clinic to see someone and I just ended my period last Saturday and know that my cervix is low and not sure if that will affect the fitting when I go in this Thurs.

I would love to talk to others who have been fitted and use a diaphragm to make sure that I'm making the right decision and know what to expect.

THANKS!

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Tue, 10-03-2006 - 9:14pm

Hi hypno_kat, welcome!


      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-20-2006
Tue, 10-03-2006 - 9:45pm

Hey Jill,

Thanks for the information. I have never heard of using a diaphragm for flow control. Would this be similar to using a menstrual cup?

Since I just got off of hormones, and am learning FAM charting, I'm wondering if I shouldn't wait to get fitted for a diaphragm and just use condoms in the meantime. It supposedly takes a few months or more to get your body on track after getting off hormones, so maybe I'm rushing getting a diaphragm. What do you think?

As for the cervical cap, I have read that the failure rate is quite a bit higher than a diaphragm. Is that because of it's smaller size?

THANKS!

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Tue, 10-03-2006 - 11:55pm

>>I have never heard of using a diaphragm for flow control. Would this be similar to using a menstrual cup? <<


      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-20-2006
Thu, 10-05-2006 - 4:11pm

Jill,

Thank you SO much for that detailed information. You're great!

My husband and I went to PP today and decided to try a different pill for a while and then possibly switch to a non-hormonal IUD (after we research it some more). My doctor did not think that the diaphragm would be a good match for us (since we just can't afford to get pregnant right now and it's rather complicated). She wanted me to go on the pill for a little while and then if we want, switch to the Merina IUD.

Thanks again for the information. I will definitely keep it in mind for the future.

:)

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Thu, 10-05-2006 - 4:17pm

Hi hypno_kat, welcome back!


      Jill