Lifestyle
Navigating Birth Control After Having a Baby
by Sarah Thompson
Updated: Feb. 23, 2018
Originally Published: Feb. 23, 2015
Trying to conceive for years can be an incredibly challenging experience, filled with emotional stress and uncertainty. While I’ve previously explored the difficulties associated with infertility, today I want to highlight one unexpected silver lining: the relief of not worrying about birth control. Transitioning from the mindset of trying to conceive to actively avoiding pregnancy can feel quite disorienting.
When my healthcare provider suggested I consider a diaphragm, I thought, “How retro! Why not give it a shot?” However, there were many reasons I should have reconsidered this decision. Sometimes, my impulsivity overshadows my ability to reflect on my choices. In retrospect, it would have served me well to heed the advice of “know thyself.”
To preface my diaphragm experience, I must admit a peculiar fear: I’m terrified of being the person who gets something lodged up there, only to face an awkward trip to the emergency room. I know, logically, that my anatomy isn’t a bottomless pit, but stories from my twenties have left me with a warped perception of what can occur inside.
For instance, one friend discovered a tampon lodged inside her for months, inadvertently going about her life while completely unaware. Additionally, countless college friends recounted tales of partners searching for a condom that had gone astray during intimacy. These anecdotes, combined with my natural inclination towards paranoia, have made me wary of placing anything inside my body—especially a diaphragm, which is meant to be positioned high within the vaginal canal.
Back to my midwife. As I decided to try the diaphragm, I casually agreed to let her assistant and a nursing student observe the fitting. In my mind, it would be like any other gynecological appointment—me lying back, making small talk. I had no idea I would be the center of attention in this fitting.
The diaphragm resembles a large, rolled-up balloon with a firm edge. My midwife demonstrated how to insert it, and to my surprise, it slid in effortlessly. This immediately triggered a minor panic, but I reassured myself that the midwife would help me retrieve it. Unfortunately, she informed me that I was responsible for removing it myself.
Her instructions were clear: “Stand up, prop one leg on the stool, and reach in to hook your finger around the diaphragm.” As I awkwardly fumbled, I was acutely aware of the three pairs of eyes observing me, one of which was taking notes. I imagined their thoughts: “Patient is sweating,” “Paper curtain is slipping,” and “Patient appears confused.” My anxiety escalated, and despite the knowledge that assistance was available, I felt trapped in my own embarrassment.
Eventually, the midwife intervened, but her action only exacerbated my discomfort. After several attempts, I realized there was no way I could confidently use this device as my primary birth control method. The fear of it becoming lost in my anatomy plagued me. Every few weeks, I received reminders from the pharmacy about the diaphragm awaiting pickup. I declined, preferring to explore other options.
For those interested in alternatives, consider visiting this resource for valuable insights into pregnancy and home insemination, or check out this guide for comprehensive information on insemination kits. Additionally, you can find more engaging content at this blog post that delves further into related topics.
In summary, while the transition from trying to conceive to choosing a birth control method can be bewildering, it’s essential to consider your comfort and knowledge about various options. The diaphragm, while an option for some, may not suit everyone, and it’s crucial to explore alternatives that align with your comfort level and lifestyle.