Contraception - Diaphragm or Other Non-hormonal Birth Control Method

Hi, L.

Personally, I love the diaphragm. I've used it for decades (yikes! but, hey, I am 47). I used birth control pills but didn't like messing with my hormones and the last go round I got incredible migraines. Not worth it!

The diaphragm can be used as needed, which I prefer to taking pills everyday.

I used to use the jelly with the diaphragm but switched to the film a few years ago. I highly recommend the contraceptive film (sold at Target or Walmart). It is not messy, itchy or smelly, like the jelly. I just place it in the diaphragm before insertion. It is actually made to be used alone but I prefer the added barrier of the diaphragm.

I imagine you could also use the film with the diaphragm-like cups called Instead (actually made for menstrual use but looks like a small diaphragm - also sold at Target or Walmart) just to hold the film in place since it does liquify when warm.

I've never had any surprise pregnancies so this method has worked wonderfully for me.

Good luck!
B.

The biggest pro of course would be no hormones in your system.

Cons:
Can cut down on the spontenaity of sex a bit b/c you have to put the diaphram in.

The spermacide jelly that you have to use with it can be a bit messy & hopefully you won't develop a sensitivity to it.

It has to stay in for several hours after sex, so you have to remember to remove it then.

You must be very comfortable with your body (as in putting your fingers up there *sorry to be so graphic!*) b/c taking it out can be a bit tricky.

That's about all I could think of...I used one for a couple of years (about 10 yrs ago). I don't know how popular of a choice it is these days...it didn't seem popular then b/c the nurse that I went to hadn't fitted anyone for a diaphram in a while. So, you might just ask your Dr about it and see what they say..

If you don't mind the idea of an IUD and just looking to not have the hormones in your system you might want to look into a copper IUD.

You might wanna check out www.femcap.com. I have a few friends who use a diaphragm and really like.

For some reason all diaphragms and cervical caps are indefinitely on backorder by the company. I've been waiting for one since July...don't waste your time.

have you tried spermicides, they have some now that you can put directly inside of you, or they also have them in films, it's like a little dissovable strip that you place inside before sex.