Diaphragm Use - Is getting his ejaculate inside the diaphragm normal?

laurabelle1317 · 09-12-2004, 01:20 AM

Hi,

I have a question for those of you who have used a diaphragm. I used to be on bcp but switched to a diaphragm recently so that I can chart my cycles until my husband and I ttc (which will be soon). I wait at least 4 hrs to take it out, like directed. The past couple of times that I have taken it out it seems like there is either vaginal and/or seminal fluid inside the diaphragm. Is that normal? If it is seminal fluid, is it getting in there before I take the diaphragm out? Or does it get in there as I pull it out? I wonder this because it seems like if it is seminal fluid getting in there than the diaphragm is in wrong and that much fluid inside it may make the diaphragm less likely to work, it would seem...because it is quite a bit of fluids on and in the diaphram after I pull it out. I am still very new at using it so I am not sure if this is normal.

Thank you!
P.S. And truly though, I'm okay if it doesn't work correctly. We want to start ttc in December anyhow. So if it happens sooner, I'd be happy.

reni · 09-12-2004, 11:13 AM

I used a diaphragm briefly and had to leave it in 12 hours after intercourse. Are you sure the four hours is correct? I realize things could have changed since I last used it, though

But the 12 hours was to give the spermicide time to kill all the sperm.

Anyway, no, semen should NOT be getting past the rim of the diaphragm if it has been fitted correctly. That defeats the purpose of the device! When you go to take it out, there should be a tremendous suction that you have to break. If you're able to pull it out easily without a "pop," then I would say it is the wrong size, positioned incorrectly, or being dislodged during intercourse.

Cervical secretion inside the diaphragm is normal, since the diaphragm is fitted around the cervix and the secretions are collecting in it.

laurabelle1317 · 09-13-2004, 12:36 AM

Reni,

Thanks for your comment. Here's another question...when the diaphragm is in, should it feel smooth, like when touching it inside to make sure it is in place? Because when mine is in, it is somewhat smooth but somewhat has some wrinkles in it like it is not lying flatly in there.

reni · 09-13-2004, 09:46 AM

It doesn't make a difference. The important part is the rim.. that has to fit tightly around your cervix. The rest of the diaphragm can fit any which way.

laurabelle1317 · 09-15-2004, 01:49 AM

How can you tell that it is fitting tightly over the cervix properly before trying to take it out and feeling the suction?