Thread: Diaphragms

I did a search on the site for posts regarding diaphgrams, but didn't see much response. I was recently considering the cervical cap and after talking with my doctor I'm a little reluctant. He said just due to proper placement and how they are more likely to be dislodged during sex, he'd recommend a diaphragm if I didn't want to go a hormonal route.

Actually, he recommended paragard but I hastily declined after reading lots about the copper IUD I want no involvement in.

I would like to hear from others who have used the diaphgram. I know they're quite large, but how did you feel overall about insertion?
Did you feel pretty confident after you inserted that it was where it needed to be?
Did you experience problems with spermicides causing irritation or allergic reaction?
Do diaphragms have an unpleasant smell like condoms do?
Did your partner ever complain of being able to feel it?
Did this interfere with oral sex at all...meaning, if you had spermicide in your vagina, I can only imagine your partner would be able to smell and taste it?

I'm also going to start charting my temps and so I can get a better grasp on my cycle and highest fertility days. I am really disliking having to depend on condoms. But I want to be responsible and not have to pray for my period every month. Please share with me your diaphragm experiences!