Medical Health Encyclopedia

The diaphragm

The diaphragm

The diaphragm is a reusable flexible rubber cup that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse to prevent pregnancy. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The diaphragm is a prescription device fitted by a health care professional. Unlike condoms, the diaphragm does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.


Review Date: 03/10/2011
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




Find a Therapist
PR Newswire