Related Experiment Videos
Diaphragm versus diaphragm with spermicides for contraception
1Public Health and General Practice, Christchurch School of Medicine, Christchurch, New Zealand. lynley.cook@ xtra.co.nz
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|January 22, 2003
Summary
The diaphragm with spermicide is commonly recommended, but evidence comparing its effectiveness to diaphragm-only use is limited. One underpowered study found no significant difference in pregnancy rates, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception
Background:
- The diaphragm is typically used with spermicide for contraception.
- Some suggest spermicides offer no additional benefit, advocating alternative diaphragm usage guidelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness, safety, and acceptability of diaphragm use with and without spermicide.
Main Methods:
- Searched multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, POPLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane) and contacted experts.
- Included randomized controlled trials comparing diaphragm use with and without spermicide as the sole contraceptive method.
- Data extraction by two independent reviewers, with discrepancies resolved by consensus.
Main Results:
- Only one underpowered study was identified.
- No significant difference in pregnancy or discontinuation rates between diaphragm with and without spermicide groups.
- A trend towards higher pregnancy rates was observed in the diaphragm-without-spermicide group.
Conclusions:
- Insufficient evidence exists to differentiate the contraceptive effectiveness of diaphragm with or without spermicide due to the single, underpowered study.
- Further research is required to draw definitive conclusions.
- Current recommendations for using diaphragms with spermicide are not contradicted by the available evidence.