[Ashlee T.]

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!

[viola]

I hate the condoms as well. I've used a diaphram since I became sexually active in my early 20's. I'm now 50. I've always used it responsivly and never got pregnent. I never wanted to use the hormones either - that was a must. I love my diaphram and if you use it responsibly, than go for it. I've never been irritated by spermacides either, and it's easy for me. Each birth control has it's good points and bad points. As far as oral sex, have to do that before inserting. It does ruin the spontinaity, but I just never had a choice, the diaphram was my only choice of birth control.

[WildChild]

I used one for several years without any problems but some people are sensitive to the spermacide. If you are responsible and rational, its a good method. Just like condoms or the pill or any other method, you do have to actually use it properly.