Health Center - Birth Control
For many women, birth control pills are the contraception method of choice. “The pill” has evolved over the years and more options exist than ever before. Unsure which is the right birth control method for you? Not sure what to do if you miss a pill? Find answers to these questions and more here.
Birth Control Pills Guide
Diaphragm
Effectiveness: 84 to 94 percent when used with spermicidal cream or gel (6-12 pregnancies per 100 women each year.)
What is it? It's a soft, flexible latex dome or cup about 2½ inches across that you fill with spermicide and insert into your vagina over your cervix.
How does it work? Used with spermicide, the diaphragm creates a physical and chemical barrier. The combination of diaphragm and spermicide physically blocks and kills sperm, preventing fertilization. You put 1 to 2 teaspoons of spermicidal cream or gel into the cup of the diaphragm and insert it over the cervix. It can be inserted up to 2 hours before sex and should be left in place for 6 to 8 hours after sex. Add more spermicide before each act of intercourse.
STD protection: No; you will still need to use condoms if you are concerned about STDs.
Benefits: Readily available, easy to use and easy to carry. It does not affect your natural hormones and can be used during breastfeeding. Because it can be inserted up to 12 hours before sex, it doesn't need to interrupt foreplay. It is effective immediately and should stay in place for 6 hours after you have sex. It generally can’t be felt by your or your partner.
