Family Planning

Basic Steps Important Details4. Keep in ó Keep the diaphragm in place at least 6 hoursplace forafter having sex but no longer than 24 hours.at leastó Leaving the diaphragm in place for more than one6 hoursday may increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome.after sexIt can also cause a bad odor and vaginaldischarge. (Odor and discharge go away on theirown after the diaphragm is removed.)óFor multiple acts of sex, make sure that thediaphragm is in the correct position and alsoinsert additional spermicide in front of thediaphragm before each act of sex.5. To remove, ó Wash hands with mild soap and clean water, ifslide a finger possible.under theó Insert a finger into the vagina until the rim ofrim of thethe diaphragm is felt.diaphragm topull it down ó Gently slide a finger under the rim and pull theand outdiaphragm down and out. Use care not to tearthe diaphragm with a fingernail.óSupporting the Diaphragm UserEnsure clientunderstandscorrect useExplain that usebecomes easierwith timeDescribe themost commonside effectsExplain aboutemergencycontraceptivepills (ECPs)Explain aboutreplacementóóóóóWash the diaphragm with mild soap and cleanwater and dry it after each use.Ask the client to repeat how and when to insertand remove the diaphragm.The more practice she has with inserting andremoving the diaphragm, the easier it will get.Itching and irritation in or around the vaginaor penis.Explain ECP use in case the diaphragm movesout of place or is not used properly (seeEmergency Contraceptive Pills, p. 45). Give herECPs, if available.When a diaphragm gets thin, develops holes,or becomes stiff, it should not be used andneeds to be replaced. She should obtain a newdiaphragm about every 2 years.Providing Diaphragms23115Spermicides and Diaphragms