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Acceptability of the vaginal diaphragm among current users
Julie E Maher1, S Marie Harvey, Sheryl Thorburn Bird
1Program Design and Evaluation Services, Multnomah County Health Department and Oregon Department of Human Services, Portland, OR, USA. julie.e.maher@state.or.us
Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health
|May 12, 2004
Summary
Diaphragm use is acceptable for preventing HIV and other STDs. Most users are satisfied, though consistent use and insertion/removal are areas for improvement.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Infectious Disease Prevention
- Women's Health
Background:
- Growing interest in the diaphragm as a female-controlled method for HIV and STD prevention.
- Need for better understanding of diaphragm acceptability among users.
- Diaphragm use may offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess diaphragm acceptability among users.
- To identify factors associated with women's satisfaction and consistent use of the diaphragm.
- To inform the reintroduction of the diaphragm and development of new products.
Main Methods:
- Telephone interviews with 215 women aged 19-49 who used diaphragms in 2001-2002.
- Data collected on user experiences, background characteristics, and satisfaction.
- Multiple logistic regression analysis to identify predictors of satisfaction and consistent use.
Main Results:
- Most participants had low risk for HIV/STDs; mean diaphragm use was 8.5 years.
- 79% were satisfied with the diaphragm, and 85% planned future use.
- Satisfied users showed higher self-efficacy and positive perceptions; consistent use linked to older age and education.
Conclusions:
- The diaphragm is a viable female-controlled method for HIV and STD prevention.
- Findings support the reintroduction of the diaphragm and development of novel diaphragm-like products.
- Addressing user concerns regarding insertion/removal can enhance acceptability and consistent use.