No 11: The Diaphragm
The Diaphragm is a flexible silicone dome that is inserted inside your vagina and it covers the cervix. It is a “one size fits all” dome. It prevents the sperm from entering the uterus. It is reusable and 86% effective.
Use a lube for smooth insertion into the vagina and make sure it covers the cervix. Leave it inside at least 6 hrs after sexual intercourse. Then you can remove it and wash it and dry and place it inside its case. It must be replaced every 2 years.
It is not a hormonal method of contraception, so there are no hormonal effects. It can be used if you or your partners are allergic to latex.
Some women don’t find it comfortable inserting it. It not easily available in all pharmacies. It is not as effective as other methods. It does not prevent you from acquiring STIs, so you will have to use a condom along with it if you are at a risk of acquiring a STI
No 12: The Female Condom
The female condoms are like male condoms but are worn by women. It is a barrier method and worn by women during vaginal sex.
The female condom is a thin, soft, polyurethane pouch which you put in the vagina before sex. It is 17 cm long and has two rings, one on each side. The inner ring is closed so it goes inside and faces the cervix. The outer ring is open, and stays outside the vagina. The outer ring acts as an anchor to stop the condom from being pushed inside the vagina during sex.
Just like the male condom, female condom should also only be used once.
It is a safe method, 95% effective when correctly used.
It can be used with any type of lubricant (water based/oil based). It can be used by those who are allergic to latex.
Condoms are the only contraception that prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Its disadvantages are women can find it difficult to insert them correctly and they have a higher failure rate. They are more expensive than the male condoms and are not easily available in all pharmacies. It also makes a lot of noise!
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Featured photo by Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash
