Does anyone still use a Diaphragm for Birth Control?

Question

I am just curious. I had several girfriends in the 80's and then in the 90's they seemed to fade away. Thanks. Any stories?

Answer 1

I used a diaphragm the first few months I was married as the alternate method while my birth control pills were taking effect in my system.
I didn't like it much because it was a pain to insert, you had to remove and reinsert it with fresh spermicidal foam every time we had sex, and it was rather uncomfortable anyway. Also, it was rather expensive.

I used the diaphragm again for almost a year after my first pregnancy (a miscarriage) because for medical reasons I could not use the Pill because of the hormones it contains. I had to get it refitted for a larger size because my body had changed due to the pregnancy. I have heard that's common... every time you give birth the diaphragm size changes and you have to buy a new one.

Diaphragms also can develop pin holes and cracks in the rubber, which is why it is very important to use it always with a spermicidal foam or gel. For the cost of the foam/gel and diaphragm, it was cheaper to use the Pill.

Answer 2

The diaphragm is not as effective as other contraceptive methods and doctors are reluctant to give them out now for this reason.