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Contraception - Management
How should the woman use a diaphragm or cervical cap?
- Before insertion, check for any holes or deterioration.
- Use a spermicide in conjunction with the diaphragm and cap.
- Do not allow oil-based products to contact latex diaphragms and caps, as they rapidly damage rubber.
- If sexual intercourse is repeated or occurs more than 3 hours after insertion, insert additional spermicide into the vagina without removing the device.
- Leave the diaphragm or cap in place for at least 6 hours after last episode of sexual intercourse, and remove within 30 hours of insertion.
- After use, wash the item with mild unscented soap, rinse well, and dry carefully before storing in a cool place.
- Should the diaphragm or cap be used incorrectly (including premature removal), consider the possibility of pregnancy and whether emergency contraception is appropriate. See the CKS topic on Contraception - emergency.
In depth
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