Diaphragm - meaning and definition
Alsocontraceptive diaphragmdiaphragmsbirth control diaphragm
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
A diaphragm is a soft, shallow silicone dome placed in the vagina before sex to cover the cervix, usually used with spermicide.
At a glance
- A diaphragm is a soft silicone dome placed in the vagina to cover the cervix.
- It is usually used with spermicide and contains no hormones.
- It needs to stay in place for at least six hours after sex.
- It can be washed and reused for a long time.
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
In detail
It stops sperm from entering the uterus and needs to stay in place for at least six hours after sex. A diaphragm can be washed and reused for a long time, and it contains no hormones.
With perfect use a diaphragm with spermicide is roughly 92 to 96% effective; with typical use it is lower, around 71 to 88%. Some types need to be fitted to the right size by a clinician, and the fit may need checking after pregnancy or significant weight change. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
In a sentence
- She went back to using a diaphragm because she wanted something hormone-free.
- The nurse checked the fit of my diaphragm after I had the baby.
Where the word comes from
From the Greek "diaphragma", meaning a partition or barrier, the same root as the muscle under the lungs.
Not to be confused with
- Pelvic floor
The pelvic floor muscles and the breathing muscle called the diaphragm are body parts, unrelated to this device.
Common questions
How effective is a diaphragm?
With perfect use, a diaphragm with spermicide is roughly 92 to 96% effective; with typical use it is lower, around 71 to 88%.
Does a diaphragm need to be fitted?
Some types need to be fitted to the right size by a clinician, and the fit may need checking after pregnancy or significant weight change. A sexual health service can advise on the types available locally.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSDiaphragm or cap
- Planned ParenthoodDiaphragm