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Birth ControlDiaphragmsAvailable by prescription only and sized by a health professional to insure a proper fit, the diaphragm provides two ways to prevent pregnancy. A dome-shaped rubber disk with a flexible rim covers the cervix so sperm can't reach the uterus, while a spermicide applied to the diaphragm before insertion kills sperm.The diaphragm provides protection for six hours. For intercourse after the six-hour period, or for repeated intercourse within this period, fresh spermicide should be placed in the vagina with the diaphragm still in place. The diaphragm should be left in place for at least six hours after the last intercourse, but not for longer than a total of 24 hours because of the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection. Symptoms of TSS include sudden fever, stomach upset, sunburn-like rash, and a drop in blood pressure. The overall failure rate of the diaphragm (with spermicide) is 9% when used according to the manufacturer’s directions.
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