Can you still get diaphragms?

[secunda]

I'm interested in getting a diaphram, not as a contraceptive but for having sex during my period to stop it being so messy! They are quite an old-fashioned contraceptive now, I think. Will doctors still fit them?

Yes. Mine will (or rather the nurse there) at least...

Still available...best bet is family planning.

Beppy sponge tampons are ideal for that purpose.
Unfortunately not reuseable though.

I got one about eighteen months ago although they treated me as if I was a relic and said they didn't really have much experience of fitting.

My gp doesn't seem to do fp any more so had to go the the fp clinic not very convenient or local.

I think it's a shame that they were trying to push hormonal contraception to a woman of my age and situation. I felt they had an agenda which was badly thought through.

I really like my diaphragm (sp)

I had to go to Family Planning place to get mine fitted - couldn't be done at GP's surgery. They were happy to do it but asked if student nurse could "assist" as they'd not had anyone in wanting one for years! I also have to get the spermicide from there (which is free) as when I tried to buy it in Boots they didn't have any and, in fact, had to get pharmacist to even understand what it was!

I like them. I agree with sincity about hormonal methods (which don't suit me anyway).

ooh thank you for your responses

Malificence, you are a star. Have just googled those beppy thingies and they look ideal.

I really hate the idea of synthetic hormones, which is why I have a coil, so am not keen on norethisterone or whatever it is. I worry it will make me feel poorly or make my skin bad, which is what happened with the pill. DP works abroad a lot, so sometimes we don't have a choice about when we see each other. Neither of us are put off by me having my period but it is getting quite expensive in terms of bedding!

You can get these instead. They're disposable menstrual cups which are soft. They're designed to collect blood and the manufacturers say that its fine to have sex with it in.

I've just ordered some of those soft cups, typically my period is due when we are away for a dirty sightseeing weekend.

Ditto!

Can't have your period getting in the way of a weekend away.

Apparently those soft cups are used as a conception aid by some which is why the come up with loads of pregnancy tests and ovulation tests on the amazon page. Don't panic though - they aren't designed for that.

Thank goodness you all carry on throughout the month too. I was on the "IABU to not fart in front my DP" thread and there were some women on there who couldn't even bring themselves to say the word period in front of their partners let alone have sex with them. I thought I must be some sort of sicko for it not bothering me in the slightest if we both end up with our nethers covered it.

You've reminded me though secunda, I have a diaphragm, I got it for contraceptive purposes but hated it, too messy and fiddly and the spermicide made DP's skin dry(not good, a dry nob!) but I can still use it in an attempt to keep the mess to a minimum.

Haha, ballpoint.

Actually, I am generally quite prim and proper in front of DP re bodily functions - I try to retain a veil of mystery re farting, burping, upset stomachs, picking spots etc. But I don't see the point with periods.

It wouldn't bother me at home but I don't fancy getting blood all over the hotel sheets!
After 28 years, there is no bodily mystery left between us.