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Diaphragm

By Tracee Cornforth, About.com

Updated June 30, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: The diaphragm is one type of barrier method of contraceptive. The diaphragm works by preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Proper use of the diaphragm requires a spermicide. The diaphragm is put over the cervix before sexual intercourse and must be left in place for at least 6 to 8 hours after sex to be effective.
Common Misspellings: diframe, diaphram, deafrome, difphram, diaframm
Examples:
The diaphragm is most effective when it is used with a spermicide and placed over the cervix before each and every act of sexual intercourse.
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