The diaphragm is considered a barrier contraceptive method. Obstetrician and gynecologist Vander Guimarães Silva, a professor at the Petrópolis School of Medicine (RJ), explains that it is a latex or silicone device, in the shape of a hood, whose edge is a flexible ring.
Before each relationship should he be inserted by the woman herself, after a previous evaluation consultation with the gynecologist, who will use measuring rings to determine the ideal size for each patient? as it should be reevaluated after each birth or weight gain / loss.
In the vagina, the device rests on the posterior sac fundus of the vagina, obstructing the cervix and preventing pregnancy from happening.
The practitioner further explains how the method works, lists its strengths and weaknesses, and other important details for women who use the diaphragm.
How it works and for whom it is indicated
When placed in the vagina, usually associated with the spermicide (placed in its concave part), the diaphragm occludes the external orifice of the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to rise into the vagina and to reach the egg, preventing them from reaching the vagina. thus the fertilization.
Read also: How to choose the best contraceptive
Since it is not a hormonal method, the diaphragm does not interfere with the menstrual cycle and can be used by women who have some restriction on hormone use. "All women who want to use a contraceptive method, whether or not restricting the use of hormonal methods, can use the diaphragm, as long as there are no contraindications," explains the gynecologist.
Advantages and disadvantages of diaphragm
As with any contraceptive method, the diaphragm has advantages as well as disadvantages, which must be considered by each woman, together with her doctor, in order to come to a conclusion about its use. The gynecologist lists some:
Benefits:
- It is a nonhormonal method;
- It has low cost;
- Its effectiveness is reasonable;
- Does not present risks;
- Combination with spermicide may protect against cervical cancer.
Disadvantages:
- It requires the woman's ability to insert her;
- It should be placed before and removed after intercourse, which may cause discomfort during intercourse;
- It requires a longer stay in the vaginal cavity after sex, which may cause some discomfort for some women;
- Its use in the menstrual period is not recommended;
- Does not protect women against STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections).
According to physician Vander Guimarães Silva, the possibility of diaphragm failure and the risk of unwanted pregnancy are rare and are generally associated with inability to insert and misuse.
Read also: 38 Contraceptive Questions Answered by Gynecologists
How to use the diaphragm?
The gynecologist explains that the diaphragm should be placed in the vagina 2 hours before sexual intercourse and remain in place for 6 to 8 hours after intercourse. In case of successive relationships, the spermicide should be reapplied. It lists the walkthrough:
- Initially urinate and wash hands thoroughly;
- Apply spermicidal jelly to the concave part of the device;
- Bend the diaphragm and insert it deep into the vagina;
- Adjust with the index finger the ring of the diaphragm on the edge of the pube bone, which appears on the anterior wall at the bottom of the vagina.
Diaphragm x IUD: Which is better?
Each of the two methods has its advantages and disadvantages, with a patient profile indicated for its use. "Regarding efficacy, the IUD has slightly more satisfactory numbers, with unwanted pregnancy rates of approximately 0.2 to 2 pregnancies / women / year of use," says the doctor.
But remember that this is not a choice that is up to women alone. It is necessary to consult a gynecologist who will indicate the most appropriate method for each patient after an individual assessment.
Where to buy
The diaphragm can be purchased at physical stores that sell medical products or even online at companies that do this same trade. Prices may vary between 150 and 200 reais per unit.
To buy, you must have a medical indication. "The gynecologist is the one who will determine if this is a suitable method for you, as well as indicate the ideal size and advise on how to use it correctly," he says.
Read also: Dangers of Mixing Birth Control with Other Medicines
SUS diaphragm
The doctor also explains that there are few Family Planning outpatient clinics linked to SUS that offer this device as a contraceptive method. "Women who choose the diaphragm usually have to look for private or covenant medicine to get it," he says.
Contraindications of the contraceptive diaphragm
Despite having many advantages, the diaphragm cannot be used by all women. There are some contraindications, which, according to the gynecologist, are:
- Virgin patients;
- Presence of vaginal infections;
- Pelvic inflammatory disease;
- Women with anatomical abnormalities of the vaginal canal and cervix;
- Latex allergy.
The diaphragm is not disposable and can be used for up to three years. Durability will depend on careful handling, proper hygiene and proper packaging after use. When used correctly, its effectiveness can range from 90 to 98%.
Female Birth Control Options | Family Planning (April 2024)
- Contraceptive methods
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