Diaphragm

The facts: The diaphragm is a shallow cap made of soft, latex rubber that prevents pregnancy by creating a barrier over the cervix and holding spermicide against it. A woman inserts a diaphragm into her vagina before having sex. Diaphragms provide only limited, if any, protection from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

How well it works: About 80 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.

Pros:
• Does not alter a woman's hormone patterns.
• Does not require direct involvement of the male partner.
• Does not interrupt intercourse.
• Once in place, provides effective contraceptive protection for six hours.

Cons:
• Provides only limited, if any, protection from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
• Not as effective in preventing pregnancy as other birth control methods such as the male condom, the birth control pill or the shot.
• Requires action before or during and after sex, and can be difficult to insert.
• Side effects may include increased urinary tract infections, allergic reactions to latex or irritation from spermicides.

Where to get it: Visit your health care provider or a family planning clinic to get a diaphragm.

Cost: Diaphragms can cost from $50 to $150. They last for about two years and cost from $40 to $60. Tubes of spermicidal creams, jellies and foam and packages of suppositories cost from $8 to $17. Medicaid and some private health insurance plans may cover most or some of these costs. Many family planning clinics provide services and supplies free or on a sliding scale, based on your income.