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Home › Articles › Couple Time › Diaphragms

Diaphragms

Is It the Right Choice for You?

By Shel Franco

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For women like Michelle Smith of Chico, Calif., the diaphragm presented a plethora of problems. "It hurt to be fitted [for the diaphragm]," Smith says. "It was impossible for me to get it in correctly. I would avoid my husband just so that I would not have to wrestle with the darn things."

Insertion is difficult for some women. Ultimate fit and comfort may require multiple trips to the doctor. Weight gain and loss, pregnancy, miscarriage and surgery all require a refitting. Even when the fit is perfect, the diaphragm can be knocked out of place by certain sexual positions and techniques.

Some users experience an increase in bladder infections. And a small number of women are allergic to the latex material and/or the spermicidal jelly.

The Bottom Line
Diaphragms are only available through a doctor's prescription. According to Dr. Dantoni, If you've had a Pap smear and cervical exam within the last year, you're ready for a fitting. This is accomplished by testing out model diaphragms. The largest model that fits completely and comfortably over the cervix works best and will be the prescribed size.

"A prescription is then given and the patient can get the diaphragm from her local pharmacist," Dr. Dantoni says. "For first time users, I usually have them return within the first month to follow up, make sure they are using it correctly and see if they have any questions

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