Diaphragm

The diaphragm, a shallow silicone cap, is a barrier method of birth control for people with vulvas. Inserted deep within the vagina, the diaphragm creates a seal against the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.1 Spermicidal foam, cream, or jelly is applied onto the diaphragm before insertion to immobilize and kill sperm …

An Overview of Birth Control

Table of Contents

What Is Birth Control?A Brief History of Birth ControlTypes of Birth ControlNatural Methods of Birth ControlSurgical Methods of Birth ControlOther Methods of Birth ControlEmergency Measures
What Is Birth Control?
The term “birth control” refers to a broad spectrum of methods that partners engaging in sexual activity use to prevent pregnancy. The …

Cervical Cap

The cervical cap or contraceptive cap is a barrier method of birth control. It is a small silicone cup that is inserted into the vagina in order to prevent pregnancy. A suction mechanism allows the cap to sit over the cervix, blocking sperm from entering the uterus and preventing fertilization. For people with vaginas who …

Spermicides

… gels, foams, suppositories and films.1 Spermicides are inserted deep into the vagina, near the cervix, with a plastic syringe applicator, or they are inserted with a diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge.3 Spermicides contain the chemical nonoxynyl-9, a surfactant that destroys the cell membrane of the sperm, rendering it immobile.2 They …

The Catholic Church and Contraception

Historically, the Catholic Church and contraception have had a contentious relationship. As early as the second century, the Church took the firm position that the use of contraception—as well as the act of engaging in any form of recreational sex that does not lead to procreation—was considered sinful. Evidence of this belief dates …

Toxic Shock Syndrome

Warning: If you show signs of toxic shock syndrome including fever, vomiting, low blood pressure, or a sunburn-like rash, particularly during menstruation and tampon use or if you have had a recent surgery, we advise you to seek immediate medical attention.

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, life-threatening complication of certain types …

Birth Control Comparison Chart

… risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) if used during a menstrual period-Less effective for users who have given birthDiaphragm with SpermicidePopular Brands: Koro-flex, Koromex, Ortho-DiaphragmFailure Rate: 17%STI Protection: NoneHormones: None Advantages (+)-Can be inserted up to six hours prior to intercourse (but spermicide must be reapplied within two hours before intercourse …

Hormonal Contraceptives and Antibiotics

… directed. If an individual is worried about the risk of pregnancy, using a non-hormonal back up form of contraception (like a male or female condom, or diaphragm ) can further reduce the risk of pregnancy.

References

Allen, Rebecca, “Do Antibiotics Reduce Hormonal Contraceptive Effectiveness?”. Internal Medicine Alert, 2Oct. 2017.“Rifamycin: MedlinePlus Drug Information.” MedlinePlus, U …

Sex Education Icebreakers

… Next person says: “This is Neil and his word is nipple, I am Dee and my word is diaphragm.”  This helps individuals learn the names of fellow group members, as well as creating an environment in which sex education related words are normalized and students feel comfortable discussing them. Further examples are listed at …