[b02001]

In my long quest to try and decide which kind of birth control I might be comfortable using in the near future, I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on cervical caps and diaphragms and their pros or cons? I really, really do not want to mess around with with the hormonal varieties of birth control. I would prefer not to use condoms regularly (and as I am looking at having only one partner without concerns of STDs, I don't feel that I would need that part of the protection) and I worry far too much and would like something more reliable than natural planning methods at this time of my life.

I am considering caps and diaphragms as maybe good options for me, but I have two major concerns.

1) I am currently still a virgin, and it took me a while to get comfortable inserting tampons. Not that I was weirded out by putting something up there, I just found it a bit difficult and uncomfortable. I am completely fine with them now, although I still haven't been able to use the menstrual cup that I picked up a few months ago. (I suppose having sex a couple of times would kind of open things up for me perhaps though)

2)I am also a bit worried about having a reaction to the spermicidal creams that you need to use with both products. I tend to be fairly sensitive to meds and lotion products, so I am not sure about that. Although, if it is just a temporary discomfort type of reaction I can just try different things until I find one that works for me. I just wouldn't want it to be a serious type of reaction in an awkward and embarrassing place.

So, ladies, any advice, suggestions, or recommendations?

[Mes T]

Ah, the miracle method that might just work perfectly for you:

Non-hormonal, copper IUD.

[WildChild]

I used a diaphram for several years but have never tried a cap. I did develop a problem with parabens due to a serious chemical burn and was then unable to use the gel that goes in the diaphram as it contains parabens as a preservative.

I had no problem with the diaphram, but then I was comfortable with touching myself. They are easy to use, just put the gel in, slip it in place and you are good to go. They do not provide STI protection. They do offer what can an advatage to some in that the gel tends to goop out a bit and provide some extra lubrication.

[b02001]

As for the IUDs. Yes, I did some research on them. But for one thing doctors in the US still seem hesitant about using them in women who have not given birth. (Not to mention not even had intercourse yet). And for another, I still have heard far too conflicting reports from people about problems they have had. I know that they are much more advanced and safe to use than they were even a few years ago, but I like the idea of my being in control of taking it out if I feel there is something wrong.

[Mes T]

You can remove it at any time. Well rather, you have to go in and have the doc do it but still, it would only stay there as long as YOU want it to.

Everything about healthcare in the US makes me disappointed to be a citizen of that country, hence one of the biggest reasons I moved. The IUD is THE most popular birth control method in MANY countries. And there's no reason to not place one inside a woman who hasn't had children (except for a slight increase in expulsion probability). I wouldn't be surprised if, in the US, it's all just propaganda to scare people into continuing to spend big bucks on birth control pills.

Of course IUDs aren't great for everyone... but same can be said with any other birth control method. Pills, diaphragm, condoms, you name it.

In any case, it's something to consider, maybe!

[b02001]

Thank you, yes, it is on my secondary list of options. I think if I were married or living with my boyfriend in a situation where sex would be a far more consistent event I would be more likely to consider the IUD. Something for future consideration I believe.

[p3375]

I've been using my cerv cap for 3 years now. Love it! Used diaphram b4 - it was ok but cap fits more comfortably and is just better for me.

IUD's fine - used 1 for a while too - lots o bad press years ago and many doc.s are reluctant to re-learn new data.

In the end, it's up to you to find what fits your likes/dislikes and own body. You may have to try this and that 4 a while 'til ya find what you like best
P

[b02001]

one more question, how safe do you feel when using either of these barrier methods? I mean, since you are putting it in there yourself, and I assume it is a bit more difficult than a condom to see(feel) that you have it exactly where it should be to be effective. Do you have concerns when using it, or do you feel that it is enough of a birth control precaution by itself?

[Mes T]

I also have a question about the cerv caps... Do you put it in a while beforehand, and how long can you leave it in? It's something for me to consider, maybe for the future, but I'm afraid of losing the ability to have "spontaneous" sex.

[b02001]

Having just read up lots on those questions, I actually did find your answer according to many sites and several personal use stories.

You do preferably insert them prior to sex, recommended at least 15 minutes before arousal, not necessarily actual intercourse. That way it is easier to insert before the vagina elongates and it is more problematic to get the cap to rest securely on the cervix.

Some women choose to wear them nearly continuously to keep the spontaneity, removing after the 48-72 hour recommendations to clean and re-apply spermicide. Others will put them in either just or shortly before intercourse. Say you plan on going to visit the boyfriend, or are going out for a romantic dinner with your husband, you can prep it and insert before hand, then you are ready for whatever the evening holds.

In the US, the recommended time in is a minimum of 6-8 hours after intercourse for effectiveness, and up to 48 hours for safety. I believe that is for both caps and diaphragms, although in Europe, the cap is approved for up to 72 hours. You just need to apply a fresh dose of spermicide either in between multiple acts of intercourse or anytime before intercourse if you have been wearing it for a significant amount of time.

Of course, some women have problems with yeast or bacterial infections from excessive wear of either method, but that is pretty much based on the individual and you won't really know until you find the right spermicide and wear pattern for your personal chemistry.

Hope that helps.