Do people use diaphragms anymore?!
Question: So my partner and I need a second form of birth control, because condoms aren't 100% effective. The pill gives me really bad side effects, as do injections. Getting something 'implanted' into me seems just like a terrible idea, and the NuvaRing falls out of me (I must be shaped weird?)
So I'm thinking the best remaining option, which doesn't involve any medical procedures or pumping my body full of chemicals, is a diaphragm. But do people even use these anymore? Are they hard to get? Are they expensive? Why don't I hear people talking about them much anymore?
Thanks
Answers: So my partner and I need a second form of birth control, because condoms aren't 100% effective. The pill gives me really bad side effects, as do injections. Getting something 'implanted' into me seems just like a terrible idea, and the NuvaRing falls out of me (I must be shaped weird?)
So I'm thinking the best remaining option, which doesn't involve any medical procedures or pumping my body full of chemicals, is a diaphragm. But do people even use these anymore? Are they hard to get? Are they expensive? Why don't I hear people talking about them much anymore?
Thanks
Yes, people do still use them. They're not difficult to get. Any gynecologist should be able to fit you for one. Mine cost about $50, but they're useful for years. Naturally there's a catch - you have to keep buying spermicide, which is available over the counter. I didn't like mine because I could feel it, which apparently is never supposed to happen.
The reason nobody ever talks about them anymore is because there are a lot of more convenient (and more effective) options. The efficacy of the diaphragm with typical use is only about 70%, and it requires not only a prescription but preparation every time you have sex. Then you have to wash it and maintain it, and sometimes it can be felt during sex.
Other options that you have are spermicide alone (not as good as a diaphragm, but a great condom backup) or vaginal sponges, which are something like diaphragms in that they cap your cervix and contain spermicide, with the advantage of being disposable and available over the counter. They're apparently supposed to be less comfortable and effective, however.
idkkk!
I never used a diaphragm. I think they're supposed to left in place for a while after sex, and I think that would get nasty, if you get my drift. Plus, I would be afraid of toxic shock syndrome.
Have you tried more than one type of b.c. pills? Perhaps whatever you were on didn't agree with your system.
Good luck.....
They are indeed still available just not as popular as they are fiddly and can be quite messy. Also they need a bit of prep as you need to insert before sex so you either break off and rush off to insert this after covering in spermicide first or think ahead and insert well before he has so much as winked at you!! Is always worth a go though. Have you thought about the coil or IUD. Not nearly as invasive as they used to be. Inserted into your uterus and left in place for 5 years. Again, something to consider as if it works leaves you nothing to worry about for a considerable length of time and if it doesnt work is quickly and easily removed . Discuss all options at your local well woman clinic or with doctor.
They aren't expensive. They require a physician visit as they come in different sizes, and if you lose or gain weight you may have to be fitted with a different size.
They require that you be familiar and comfortable with your body. You must, before sexual contact, fill the diaphragm with spermicide and insert it over your cervix. You cannot remove the diaphragm for several hours after intercourse, and removing it can be a (sorry, this is graphic) warm, squishy messy feeling. Then you must wash it off, dry it, and store it in its protective case.
Diaphragms are noninvasive (except for the obvious) and nonchemical (except for the spermicide). But it must be used with every sexual contact.