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“ooo” boutique – Fashionably Packaged Condoms

Contraception, Safer Sex

As part of my mission to educate and empower I thought it might be a good idea to cover something not too many reviewers have, condoms. Now I know a lot of you are probably wondering why I’d choose to cover such a product, especially since there seemingly isn’t too much to write about; they’re made of latex, polyurethane/polyisoprene or lambskin, go over a penis and help prevent unplanned pregnancies and STD transmissions. Big whoop!

Truth is, with all of the ‘new and improved’ options on the market I thought there might be a way I could incorporate the different varieties into a series of reviews that helps bring an awareness about safer sex practices, the benefits of making informed decisions and learning to be proud of using prophylactics rather than ashamed or embarrassed.

To help me make my point, and potentially offer a way to make using condoms a bit more sexy and fashionable, the generous folks at the up and coming “ooo” boutique provided me with an entire box of goodies to review and showcase for you. From flavors to textures, sheer to pleasure enhanced, I literally have EVERYTHING they’ve created so far.

On that note, because such a big part of what makes these condoms so fantastic is the ‘designer’ packaging I thought I’d dedicate one full post to it, with the next post being dedicated to the actual condoms. If you’re only interested in the condoms I suggest you jump ahead to part 2 (again with the following the RSS Feed so you know when it comes out).

*Since I’m a believer in paying it forward I’m going to return the favor the folks at the company showed me and share. If you’d like the chance to get your hands on some of these bad ass goodies I’ll be holding an “ooo” giveaway in the coming month.  If you want to participate I suggest you subscribe to my RSS feed so you’ll be one of the first to know.

*All “ooo” boutique condoms are FDA approved, individually tested, and exceed all international standards for quality and reliability. – as taken from the website

Packaging

When it came to designing a line of condoms that were as creative as they were effective, the creators of “ooo” boutique nailed it! Especially if effective means you’ll want to carry them, be more comfortable keeping them around the house, and therefore better prepared to engage in safer sex practices.

Whether it’s the unique boxes or the simple and sleek colorings used, the outer packaging has a lot going for it. It’s sophisticated. It’s artistic. It’s professional. It’s exciting. It’s discreet. It screams sexy. It’s everything many of the other mainstream condom manufacturers aren’t… and puts them to shame in the process. While the shape of the outer foil may give them away (they’re a traditional square foil with a perforated edge) the single wrappers aren’t brightly colored and don’t attract much attention; just a simple silver cover with the “ooo” lettering on each side.

As for the outer designs there are currently 6 main collections, with Tryst, Passion Pack and Art of Lust having 3 different variations on the theme. Alternatively, the Kung Fu Sutra, Take Me and Try Me boxed gift sets feature separate individually designed foil wrappers created to entice exploration of the environment and your physical prowess (images of different locations and positions being the theme). Regardless of the ones you choose, all of the “ooo” collections are pretty fantastic and worth the slightly higher price tag they command.

Tryst ~ 6 pack ($7.99), Singles ($1.59)

The Tryst line of condoms includes alluring cubes in a luxurious slick matte black tone and an almost neon shade of red, purple or yellow. The front of the boxes feature the theme name (savor me, feel me or rock me) along with a poetic prose written in a shiny black ink only visible when the cube’s tilted to expose the lettering. Located on the bottom front is a cutout corresponding with the theme; top half of  a heart for “feel me”, top of a crown for “rock me” (We Will Rock You by Queen being the assumed inspiration) and a top half of lips for “savor me” (flavored condoms, go figure). The back offers basic instructions, cautions and company info, while the top and bottom have an embossed “ooo” logo, website url and ‘important information” regarding the pros of practicing safe sex. The lid easily slides upwards and off to allow access to the condoms while also acting as a discreet little storage container. It’s simple. It’s clever. And I like it. A lot.

Passion ~ 6 pack ($7.99), Singles ($1.59)

The Passion collection of condoms features a smooth and clean white tall sachet style package that’s simple, discreet and fairly unique, especially when compared to the traditional rectangle boxes used by many major manufacturers.

The neon colors within the collection are the same as Tryst, with a softer pastel purple being the only real difference. Rather than the half crown, lips and heart found on the previous cubes, Passion features a colored heart placed front and center as well as on the back where the flip tab is located. Unfortunately there’s no poetic prose included with this collection, instead you’ll find a sentence coinciding with the theme written in metallic silver. Like Tryst there are basic instructions, cautions and company info provided on the back, as well as a pamphlet located inside.

Both Tryst and Passion offer the option of discreet single condoms, packaged in the corresponding color schemes as the larger versions. Considering one of the major problems that comes with carrying a single foil wrapped prophylactic is the fact that it could get worn, punctured or torn, the inclusion of a thick quality cover is a pretty decent idea.

Kung Fu Sutra – 8 pack ($15.99)

When it comes to concepts I just don’t get, the Kung Fu Sutra themed condoms is one of them. Sure the packaging is stylish, unique, exceptionally artistic and very well deigned, but it’s just not very practical or realistic. If they were doing it for a laugh, okay fine, but otherwise – not so much. (If you can find me a link to a prOn or website where the positions are found, hook a sister up! That’s just something I need to see!!)

As for the packaging, the eight single wrapped condoms come in a tawny colored rectangular box that features Asian theme you’d expect to find on most Kama Sutra or Shunga products. The red, black and beige shades lend themselves well to this concept, as does the inclusion of Japanese characters and sexually explicit images of ninjas in various sexual positions (yes, I did just say ‘ninjas in various sexual positions’. I win.). Quite surprisingly the box containing the condoms is sturdy, thick, with a bit of weight to it, rather than being a cheap and flimsy box that falls apart quickly. To put it lightly, I’m very impressed.

From the get go the major theme of this collection is rather apparent; each individually wrapped condom features an image of an exceptionally challenging position meant to inspire users to ‘face-off  in a game of power and pleasure” (as quoted on the website). The graphics are artistic and very well designed, interesting and often induce a case of serious curiosity as to whether or not the positions could be pulled off… even if they are a tad far fetched and too complicated for the average person to even dream of completing (I see a lot of frustrating sex being had thanks to these bad boys). The lid is easily removed providing access the condoms, while the box could be reused at a later date to safely store refills or small lube samples/batteries.

*the only thing I didn’t really like about this was the lack of images of males on males, all of it is hetero in nature.

Art Of Lust ~ 6 Pack ($7.99), Singles ($1.59)

When it comes to condom packaging that’s fresh, sophisticated and highly impressive, the sleek match box style containers are where it’s at. Not only are the 3 different boxes easy to store, taking up less room than the traditional packaging larger condom boxes offer, they’re also well made and do a fantastic job of allowing the condoms to be easily accessed yet still well protected (no cheap cardboard here, the box is sturdy and designed to hold up).

Like the other two versions Art of Lust comes in a totally different design, being a sliding box with a ribbon pull rather than a sachet or cube style. The colors, while vivid, are quite muted emphasizing skin tones and golden metallic shades rather than the pastel or bright neon pigments found with the others. The front features the male, female or both images, while the back has a simple sentence coinciding with the theme written in black followed by some info on the pros of practicing safe sex. Sure the lines are a little cheesy, but they’re not that bad.

As for the designs, I don’t know that I’d use the word ‘lust’ to describe them. Intense? Maybe. Interesting? Very. Attractive? Definitely. Artistic? Highly. Having said that they are something a person would likely ask about should they see them, they can’t not,  they’re that eye catching. Regarding the faces, I don’t know what they were going for but the female image slightly resembles an 80’s era Annie Lennox, with the male looking a tad like a shaved version of Sasha Baren Cohen mixed with Freddie Mercury. Quite a bit of cock rock if you ask me! (someone seriously needs to create a female equivalent to that term. Just sayin.)

According to the website the collection is limited edition, with each box designed by an ‘up and coming artist’. Unfortunately the site lacks a reference to who the artists are, making it hard for me to give credit where it’s due (Hey OOO Boutique, if you’re reading this I’d love a link please and thanks!).

Take Me ~ 12 Pack ($19.99), Singles ($1.59)

If you’ve ever needed a little push to do something fun, like let’s say have sex an elevator, take a roll in the hay, play secretary/boss at the office, or do it in the kitchen, the fun and frisky condoms offered in the Take Me collection may just be what you’re looking for.

Not sure how to broach the topic of ‘public’ play? Try slipping one into your partners pocket, purse, gym bag or wallet. Without much effort, other than a text message to let them know where it’s hiding, they should catch the drift.

Each single condom comes packaged with an image of a potentially playful, erotic or risky location on the front. Fortunately there’s quite a bit to choose from, in addition to the options listed above there’s also: The Beach, woods, one mile high, the drive-in, a tent, parents room, the back seat and the pool.

As for the packaging it’s fairly simple: each condom sits within a large rectangular sleek matte grey box with a clear plastic cover that encloses the 12 condoms, showing them off very well. The back features an image of all the condoms within the collection as some are hidden by the ‘take me’ logo found on the front.  As with the other versions the back also contains info on safer sex practices and company info.

Final Verdict

With the refreshingly different product packaging used by “ooo” boutique being a far cry from what one might expect, it’s not surprising they’re being toted as ‘designer’ condoms. Having said that, if you’ve refrained for fear someone may find them  or simply because you value discretion, “ooo” boutique is a brand you might want to consider. The boxes are small enough to fit almost anywhere, they’re sophisticated in feel, don’t have a well known brand name sprawled across the front and most importantly, are condoms you’d want to pull out with pride (just so you could show them off).

While some basics similarities may remain, “ooo” boutique has raised the bar and helped to push the prophylactic industry into a whole other level. Let’s hope that companies like this thrive and grow, creating a fashionable awareness about safer sex practices and supporting the cause for generations to come.

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Sex Ed 102 Beginners Guide: Dental Dams

Condoms & Safer Sex Products, Couples Toys & Games, Product Reviews, Safer Sex

 

 

Sex Ed 102 Beginners Guide: Dental Dams For Safe Oral Play

If you’re exploring ways to keep oral play both safe and pleasurable, dental dams might be a perfect addition to your routine. Many people know about condoms as a method of protection, but dental dams are an equally important tool, especially for oral play involving the vulva or anus.

While they may be new to some, dental dams are simple, easy to use, and can provide peace of mind by reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) without taking away from intimacy. In this guide, we’ll dive into what dental dams are, how they work, and offer helpful tips and options for anyone looking to add this effective barrier method to their safer sex practices.

What Are Dental Dams and How Do They Work?

A dental dam is a thin, flexible sheet of latex or polyurethane that acts as a protective barrier between partners during oral sex. Originally designed for dental work (hence the name), dental dams were adapted for sexual use to provide an effective shield that minimizes skin-to-skin contact and helps prevent the transmission of STIs. When used correctly, a dental dam covers the vulva or anus, keeping bodily fluids and potential infections at bay. They come in a range of flavors, colours, and materials, making it easy to find an option that feels comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.

How to Use a Dental Dam

  1. Position the Dam: Place the dental dam over the area you intend to engage with during oral sex, ensuring it covers the area fully. It’s best to use a new dental dam every time and with each new partner or area.
  2. Hold it in Place: Keep the dental dam steady with your hands to prevent it from slipping, or have your partner help hold it in place. Make sure not to flip it over during use, as this could transfer bacteria to the other side.
  3. Apply Lubricant for Comfort: Water-based or silicone-based lubricant can be applied to the side of the dental dam that makes contact with the body. This helps keep the dam in place and enhances sensitivity by allowing it to move more fluidly.
  4. Dispose of the Dam Properly: After use, simply throw the dental dam away in the trash. Dental dams are single-use only, so don’t reuse them.

Options Available: Choosing the Right Dental Dam for You

Dental dams come in a few different options to accommodate various needs and preferences:

Latex Dental Dams: The most common and affordable option, latex dams are thin, stretchy, and provide an effective barrier against STIs. They’re available in multiple flavors to add a bit of fun to the experience.

Non-Latex (Polyurethane) Dental Dams: These are a great alternative for those with latex allergies. Polyurethane is a body-safe material that still provides excellent protection, although they’re usually a bit less stretchy than latex options.

Flavored Dams: Flavoured dental dams can make oral play more enjoyable by masking any taste or smell of the material. Available in a variety of flavors, they’re a nice way to add some fun to your experience.

Whether you’re looking for something ultra-thin, flavoured, or hypoallergenic, there are options to make sure your dental dam experience feels comfortable and satisfying.

Alternatives

If you’re unable to find dental dams in your area and/or don’t feel safe shopping online keep in mind that there are other options available: plastic saran wrap from your kitchen can serve as an effective dental dam, condoms work well too – simply cut off the tip, cut down the side, and spread the condom using your hands over the exposed area (you’ll also have quite a few more flavor options if you use flavored condoms).

Lorals Barrier Underwear

Another option are Lorals underwear which offer a unique, comfortable option for safer oral play. Lorals are single-use, ultra-thin latex underwear designed to act as a barrier, allowing for pleasurable sensation while reducing STI transmission risks. These disposable panties cover the vulva area completely, creating a smooth layer that can be more discreet and secure than a handheld dental dam.

Lorals come in different styles, such as bikinis or briefs, and can be a game-changer for anyone who wants a hands-free barrier option that feels more natural. With their stretchy, form-fitting design, Lorals offer a comfortable, close fit that moves with the body, making them ideal for people who find standard dental dams cumbersome or less effective during movement. Plus, they can be paired with lubricant on the external side, just like traditional dental dams.

Choosing the Right Lubricant

When using dental dams, lubrication is key to comfort and enhanced sensation. Applying a small amount of lubricant to the body side of the dam reduces friction, makes the dam feel smoother, and can enhance pleasure for both partners.

Using flavoured lubricant can be a fun addition when using dental dams or barrier products like Lorals underwear. Not only can flavoured lube make the experience more enjoyable by masking the taste of latex, but it also adds a bit of variety to the experience, allowing for playful exploration of flavors. Flavoured lubes are specifically designed to be safe for oral use, ensuring that they’re non-toxic and easy on the stomach if ingested.

Generally speaking, water-based lubricants are a popular choice as they’re compatible with both latex and polyurethane dental dams. Silicone-based lubricants are also safe to use and offer a longer-lasting glide, though they may be slightly harder to wash off. If you’re using silicone lube you’ll want to make sure not to use it on the side your licking as it’s not meant to be ingested. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can weaken latex and create holes in the dam, reducing its effectiveness.

The Bad

When it comes to the down side of using dental dams there are a few things to consider:

  • Reduced Sensations: Due to the thickness and type of material you choose, they may limit sensation and feel foreign. The best way for me to put it is to think of sex without a condom verses sex with a condom. Granted, condoms have come a long way and are now being manufactured to feel as close to the real thing as possible, but still. It just doesn’t feel the same as skin on skin contact.
  •  No Free Hands: Because dental dams move around as you offer stimulation to your partner they need to be held in place during use, which can make things feel a bit less spontaneous. This can also be a bit distracting or tricky to manage, especially for beginners.
  • Not Big Enough: Depending on your body they might not be long/wide enough for the exposed area. Using two could be a bit awkward when it comes to keeping them in place. In this case I’d suggest saran wrap.
  • Single-Use: As with most barrier methods, dental dams should be disposed of after each use, meaning you’ll need a new one for each session or partner.
  • Availability: While growing in popularity, dental dams are less common than condoms, so it may be easier to find them online or in specialty stores.

Final Thoughts

Dental dams are an empowering tool for safer oral play, giving you a way to protect yourself and your partner without sacrificing pleasure or intimacy. With various options, flavors, and materials, dental dams offer flexibility for everyone, whether you’re just starting or experienced.

By using a little lubricant and taking time to get comfortable, you’ll find that dental dams can fit seamlessly into your routine, providing both peace of mind and pleasurable experiences. Whatever you and your partner enjoy, dental dams make it possible to explore safely, so you can focus on connecting and creating memorable moments together.

If you’d like to get your hands on dental dams be sure to check out my favourite online sex toy stores be it SheVibe, Babeland, SexToy.com, or my own online store, ShopSexEd102.com. Don’t forget to shop around to make sure you’re getting the best prices available.

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Q & A – Condoms vs The Pill

Contraception, Q & A, Safer Sex

Heya!

I just watched a few of your videos and in the “Peer Pressure” one you were talking about running out of condoms. I’d like to have your opinion: why choose condoms over pills, shots and all the other things out there?

Thanks in advance!

Answer

There are many reasons I always stress the use of condoms;

1.) Although the pill has been around for quite a while there is still testing being done on it to see what long term effects it can have on the person taking it, not to mention the generations to follow. Pills, shots, patches, and any other chemical that one would take, can alter your bodies natural chemical balance causing serious side effects like acne, sore breast tissue, weight gain, mood swings, headaches, stomach upset, increased risk of Cancer and more. I don’t personally believe in altering our bodies natural way of doing things when there are other less invasive products available. Not to mention it can be harder to conceive after stopping taking them.

2.) Those products DO NOT protect against the virus’s that cause STI’s. Like I’ve said before, you never know what someone is doing behind your back and it’s better to be safe then sorry.

3.) Prescriptions (like the pill) and other forms of protection (like the shot) require seeing a doctor.  Depending on age, confidentiality and privacy issues, as well as doctors fee’s (in Canada we have OHIP but I don’t know what it’s like in other Countries) some people won’t feel comfortable seeing a doctor or spending money that they don’t have. Condoms are cheap, easy to get your hands on, and discreet.

4.) Condoms can be easily accessed by females or males, and place the responsibility on both partners to come prepared. When it comes to the pill it is left in the females hands. A male has no clue if she’s really taking it, taking it properly (on time every day) or if she’s just saying she is. Trust me I’ve heard it a hundred times “but she said she was on the pill…”.  Condoms allow both partners to be assured that they are being safe when it comes to unplanned pregnancy and protecting themselves from any post coital worry.

5.) The pill requires that you take it every day at the same time to ensure that it works effectively. If you miss one day you put yourself at higher risk of becoming pregnant. I don’t know about you, but I’m not that great with routine or remembering to do something the same time every day, especially with such a hectic lifestyle. It’s easier to remember to put a condom on before having sex, then it is to remember to take a pill.

6.) Although the pill is highly effective when taken properly, things like medication (antibiotics etc) can lesson its effectiveness without a person even knowing. To find out if a medication is going to cancel out or change the effectiveness of the pill I suggest you always speak to a doctor before filling a prescription.

Off the top of my head those are just a few of the reasons that I always suggest using condoms. If you feel it necessary to use two forms of protection (i.e condoms AND the pill/shot etc) please feel free to use your judgment in finding something that is a good fit for both you and your partner. Remember, two types of protection are always better then one.

Hope that helps!

Kara_Sutra

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Just In Case

Contraception, Safer Sex

 Thanks to the folks at SexToy.com I was sent what may have become one of my most favorite things where safer sex practices are concerned – the “Just In Case” condom/compact.

For those of you wondering what it is, well, it’s rather self explanatory;  a compact complete with a mirror for touch up’s, that’s just small enough to fit in the cutest of purses/bags but large enough to have a secret compartment for storing 2 condoms. You know, just in case you might need one 😉

When I first got my classy red Just In Case I assumed it would be cheap looking and rather flimsy, to my surprise it was actually the exact opposite. The sturdy and well crafted acrylic case is shiny and very discreet with nothing on it to hint at what it might be. The mirror is a legitimate mirror (rather then those cheap ones you find in dollar store compacts. You know, the one’s that make you feel like your in the funhouse at the carnival) and it’s large enough that you can see your whole face in it, rather then just an eye or your lips. While I’m not the biggest fan of the color red I do quite like the highly reflective (almost metallic) outer case as it reminds me of pin up girls from days gone by.

*If you don’t like red the case also comes in goddess gold (gold), luscious lime (light green), petulant pink (baby pink), mystic metal (black),  a newer sleek black Chanel-esque compact – the JUST IN CASE II, and for those of you that want an extra discreet case that doubles as a lip gloss dispenser – the  Just In Case Confidential.

As for being flimsy, I dropped mine 3 times the first day I got it (what can I say, I’m a clutz) and while it did get one little scratch it didn’t break or crack – yay for well made products!!

What I love most about the Just In Case line of products is just how portable they are; measuring only 2 1/2″ in height,  2 1/2″ in width and 7/8″ deep, the compact  fits rather comfortably in  back pockets, a purse, clutch, carry on luggage, knapsacks or a bedside table. To be honest, it’ll fit just about anywhere your little heart desires (without anyone being any the wiser).

*On a side note, I took mine to dinner with some friends as a test to see if it really was as discreet as the website said it was. The second I took it out of my purse everyone wanted to know what it was, not because they thought it was something scandalous, but because it was the “prettiest/fiercest” compact they’d ever seen. When I handed it over to their wanting hands not one person thought to lift the secret compartment (exposing the condom).   When I showed them the condom compartment every single one of them (5 ladies in total) all screamed that they wanted one, thus making the concept behind the compact a complete discreet success!

When it came to the issue of social acceptance, or lack thereof, I had originally planned on having a little rant here regarding the way women are portrayed or perceived should they be found to be carrying condoms. However, upon reading the philosophy behind the product I thought I would refrain and instead offer a quote from the website, as there is no way I could have said it better myself:

“It is our belief that although a woman may be sophisticated, smart, sexy and forward thinking in her world, beneath the strong exterior lives a woman who is innately modest, and has a desire to be loved and respected; a different kind of strength.

Often, situations arise where self-betrayal replaces self-knowledge with the belief that having unprotected sex will please her partner and begin or keep a relationship going; all of which could put her life at risk. Furthermore, the idea of purchasing condoms herself or carrying them in her purse where others may see them, might be just too embarrassing. Or she may feel judged for having them in her possession.

It’s Time.” *Just In Case Website

Aside from the social acceptance issues, I was raised in a generation where it was the males responsibility to carry the condoms and the females responsibility to get on the pill. While I agree that 2 forms are protection are better then 1, I think that when it comes to STI’s, and protecting against them, it should be both parties responsibility not one or the other. With that in mind, the Just In Case provides a sleek and easy means of transportation that is not only respectful and discreet, but also fun and classy.

*Not to mention it keeps the condom wrapper from getting torn or punctured which could ruin it.

The Bad

As for things I didn’t like about the product, I didn’t have any. It’s well made, comes in a variety of colors, is compact and discreet, fits more then one condom and provides a certain type of female empowerment that no other product can – what more could I ask for??

Final Verdict

Whether it’s a trip abroad, a night on the town, a dinner for two or a midnight rendezvous in the park the Just In Case condom compact is something no girl should go without!

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Sex Ed 102: Everything You Need To Know About Diaphragms

Contraception, Good Guides, Safer Sex, STD Information & Prevention

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Sex Ed 102: Everything You Need To Know About DiaphragmsWhat is a diaphragm?

The diaphragm is a dome shaped cup with a flexible rim. It’s made of silicone or latex and is designed to stop sperm from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes in order to prevent an unintended pregnancy. To be more specific, it’s a reversible barrier method of birth control.

I personally suggest silicone because it lasts longer, is easy to care for, and won’t absorb odors, bodily fluids, or bacteria. The other reason I suggest silicone is that it is latex free, so for those of you that have latex allergies, or for those of you not sure if you have a latex allergy, it’s a good option.

Where can I get a diaphragm ?

Unfortunately you’re not able to buy them at a store or online like condoms. Instead, you need to get fitted for one by your health care provider to make sure that it’s the right size for your body and won’t allow any room for sperm to pass.

During your fitting your health care provider should show you how to use it properly and allow you to practice in the office, checking once inserted, to make sure you did it correctly.

If they don’t offer, please know there is nothing to be embarrassed about and you have every right to ask. The effectiveness of any birth control method always stands in using it perfectly. That said, it’s always better to be safe then sorry.

When it comes to using your diaphragm there are a few things that I suggest:

  • Always make sure your hands are clean before handling it, you don’t want to  transfer any bacteria which could cause an infection.
  • Hold your diaphragm up to a light or place a small amount of water in it to check for cracks or holes before use, if you do find any don’t use it.
  • If you’re using a silicone diaphragm do not use a silicone lubricant and make sure your hands are free of any silicone as it may break down the product.
  • If you’re using a latex diaphragm do not use an oil based product and make sure your hands are free of anything that may cause the latex to break down.  Remember, latex diaphragms are the same as latex condoms (only thicker) so treat them with the same respect.
  • Diaphragms do not offer protection against STD’s so you will need to either add another method of protection (like condoms) or choose something that fits your specific needs.

How do I insert the diaphragm?

Inserting your diaphragm and using it perfectly is something that will take some practice.  More likely then not, using your diaphragm will be uncomfortable, awkward, and annoying when you first start. I highly suggest taking some time inserting it and removing it before you use it during intercourse.  Now I know it sounds a little overwhelming but trust me, once you get the hang of it, it’s a piece of cake.

Step 1.) After you’ve washed your hands,  hold the diaphragm dome side down. Squeeze a teaspoon of spermicide cream into the center of the diaphragm and spread a bit of the cream around the rim with your finger. If you have long nails be gentle as you don’t want to accidentally pierce it.

Step 2.) Squeeze the diaphragm so that it’s boat-shaped. Then, while using your free hand to separate your inner labia, insert the folded device into your vagina. To do this use whatever position you use when inserting a tampon; standing with one foot propped up, squatting, or while lying on your back in bed are all fine, just do whatever is most comfortable to you. Keep in mind that the position of the cervix and the walls of the vagina will differ depending on your position.

Step 3.) Push the diaphragm as far as it goes and use your index finger to tuck it behind your cervix.  Run the index or middle finger over the diaphragm’s dome to verify that it is covering the cervix; if the device is in the correct position, the cervix should be easily felt through the rubber. Some say it feels like the end of a nose, and that’s what it’s felt like for me, so I’m going with it.  It shouldn’t be too hard to tell since it is normal to detect folds in the diaphragm when it is in place.

One thing that I do want to note is that for the Diaphragm to be its most effective it must remain in place for 6 hours after intercourse, but no longer 24 hours, as there is an increased risk of toxic shock syndrome if you do.

How do I remove the diaphragm?

To remove it insert the index finger inside the vagina and place it behind the front rim of the diaphragm then pull the diaphragm downward and out of the vagina. Fortunately getting it out is a lot easier then inserting it.

How do I clean my diaphragm?

As for cleaning it, just wash the diaphragm with non-perfumed soap and warm water, rinse it well and dry it carefully; I suggest letting it air dry. Then return it to its original container and store it in a dry, cool place.

How effective is the diaphragm?

In regard to its effectiveness when used typically 20 out of 100 women will get pregnant. However when use perfectly only 6 out of 100 women will get pregnant. That in mind, as I said before it’s always better to get guidance from your health care provider since practice makes perfect!

Pro’s of using a diaphragm

  • It can be discretely carried in your pocket or purse.
  • It can be used during breastfeeding without risk of affecting your baby.
  • It usually can’t be felt by you or your partner.
  • It has no effect on a persons natural hormones unlike other methods.
  • It is immediately effective and reversible.
  • There is no interruption of sex play and can be inserted up to 6 hours ahead of time.

Cons of using a diaphragm

While I do think that the diaphragm is a great method of protection, the only downfall is that it in order for it to be effective it must be used in conjunction with spermicide. If you are curious as to why I feel this way I suggest you watch my video on spermicide and check out my post on spermicides.

That said if you plan on having sex again within a three hour span of time you need to add more spermicide.  If you do choose to use this method of protection I suggest keeping a tube ready just to be safe.

  • While it’s still up for debate some people suggest that it cannot be used during your period
  • may be difficult for some women to insert (again that just takes practice)
  • may be pushed out of place due to heavy thrusting, and certain sexual positions
  • must be in place every time a woman has vaginal intercourse and used in conjunction with spermicide
  • may need to be refitted due to giving birth or weight change.

Common Side Effects

Fortunately most women can use the diaphragm without any issues arising. Serious problems are very rare and not that common. But some women may experience these side effects;

  • Frequent urinary tract infections. To avoid infection, urinate before inserting the diaphragm and after intercourse which will help to flush out any bacteria from the urethra.  If you get frequent bladder infections, ask your health care provider to check to see if your diaphragm fits correctly.
  • Vaginal irritation; this can be a sign of an allergy to latex or spermicide. If you have a mild reaction stop using the diaphragm until you speak with your health care provider. It’s always better to be safe then sorry.

As with other methods of protection I have covered I want to stress that for some of you this may work and for some of you it may not. However, since choosing a method of protection that is right for you is a very important step in being sexually active and responsible, I do feel it necessary to cover all of the options so you can see what’s available, how to use it, and make sure your using it correctly, which will of course increase the chances of effectiveness.

 

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