Diaphragms

A diaphragm is a latex or silicone cup with a firm flexible rim and shallow dome that can be coated with gel and folded for insertion into the vagina.

Indications for use as a contraceptive:

• Insert diaphragm with spermicide before intercourse
• Apply more spermicide before additional acts of intercourse
• Leave the diaphragm in place for at least six hours after intercourse
• Do not wear for more than 24 hours
  

Ortho All-Flex® Arcing Spring Diaphragm

Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical
The All-Flex® is a latex diaphragm with a shallow dome and a flexible rim with an arcing spring. It is available in nine diameter sizes, from 55 to 95mm, in 5mm increments. The All-Flex® diaphragm is available in the United States and elsewhere. It is the world market leader in diaphragm sales and distribution.

Ortho Coil Spring® Diaphragm

Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical
The Coil Spring® is a latex diaphragm with a shallow dome and a flexible rim with a coil spring. It is available in nine diameter sizes, from 55 to 95mm, in 5mm increments. The Coil Spring® diaphragm is available in the United States and elsewhere. It is a popular method in the United Kingdom.

Milex Wide Seal® Diaphragm

Milex Products, Inc.
The Milex Wide Seal® is a silicone diaphragm with a shallow dome and a wide rim with an arcing or omniflex spring. It has a small skirt around the rim intended to hold gel in place and improve the seal. It is available in eight diameter sizes, from 60 to 95mm, in 5mm increments. The Wide Seal® diaphragm is available from the manufacturer and is distributed in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Semina Diaphragm

Semina Industries and Commerce Ltd.
The Semina is a clear, silicone diaphragm with a visible coil spring. It is available in six diameter sizes, from 60 to 85mm, in 5mm increments. The Semina diaphragm is available in Brazil.

Reflexions Flat Spring® Diaphragm

The Reflexions Flat Spring® is a latex diaphragm with a rim that is similar to the coil spring but thinner and more delicate. It is available in seven sizes, from 65 to 95 mm, in 5mm increments. The Flat Spring is manufactured in Britain.

SILCS (under development)

SILCS, Inc.
SILCS is an intravaginal barrier device currently under development. It is made of silicone with an arcing ring. SILCS has a pre-shaped rim to cling high in the vaginal vault and a finger cup on one edge for easy removal. It will be a one-size-fits-all device.

BufferGel Duet (under development)

ReProtect, LLC.
The BufferGel Duet is a disposable, one-size-fits-all, clear diaphragm made of dipped polyurethane. It will be marketed pre-filled with BufferGel, a candidate microbicide and contraceptive.