Diaphragm

diaphragm; cap; contraception; barrier; sperm; spermicide; spermicides; sexually; transmitted; infections; STI; STIs;

 

 

A diaphragm is soft dome-shaped cup with a flexible rim which fits in the vagina so that it covers the cervix to create a barrier to sperm. It is inserted by the woman before sex and left in for at least 6 hours afterwards.

Diaphragms are less effective than other types of contraception but they contain no hormones, have no effect on menstrual cycle or breastfeeding and do not affect fertility.

Diaphragms do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

For information have a look at the topic Diaphragms on the SHine SA website.

Resources

South Australia

• Shine SA - Sexual Health information, networking and education South Australia
  http://www.shinesa.org.au 
  Sexual Healthline - 9 am to 1 pm Monday to Friday
  Tel: 1300 883 793
  Country callers - Tel:1800 188 171
  TTY: 8431 5177
  e-mail sexualhealthhotline@health.sa.gov.au
• The Second Story Youth Health Service (TSS)
  - Central: 57 Hyde St, Adelaide
  - South: 50a Beach Rd, Christies Beach
  - North: 6 Gillingham Rd, Elizabeth
  - West: 51 Bower St, Woodville
• Youth Healthline on 1300 13 17 19,
  
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases Services (Clinic 275)
  Tel: (08) 8222 5075
  http://www.stdservices.on.net/
• Your family doctor
• Your local Community Health Centre.

Australia

• Sexual health information developed by Australian researchers:
  http://www.yoursexhealth.org/

The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Youth Healthline on 1300 13 17 19 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).