A diaphragm is a thin latex or silicone cup mounted on a flexible metal ring. Its effectiveness is optimized with the combined use of a spermicide coated on the dome and on the ring. It must be inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse, and positioned so as to cover the cervix. It should be removed after at least 6-8 hours after sex. If kept in too long it can cause irritation. The diaphragm requires a good feel for your body, and is more suitable for healthy women who have never given birth naturally. After vaginal delivery, in fact, the uterus is modified in such a way as to make application of the method more difficult, and thus decreases its efficacy. In recent years, it has become less used in favor of the female condom, the cervical cap and the contraceptive sponge.
