The Gynaeseal diaphragm tampon
Cattanach, J.F.
Australian Family Physician 17(10): 867-869
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8495 PMID: 3240154 Document Number: 322277
A new type of vaginal diaphragm called the Gynaeseal diaphragm tampon is described that was designed to obviate most of the problems of existing contraceptive diaphragms and act as a menstrual tampon as well. Problems women have with existing diaphragms are need for fitting and instruction in insertion, difficulty and errors in insertion even with the applicator, poor performance as a menstrual seal in 50% of women, expense, and heightened risk of urinary tract infections and damage due to pressure on urinary tract. The new device is an O-ring with an outer latex pouch that induces a vacuum seal and collects discharge, and an inner latex diaphragm with a one-way valve. The device fits over the cervix and is inserted in a special spiral curved applicator. It was tested on a laboratory device to find to proper thickened of latex to generate negative pressures of 20 mm Hg. Gynaeseal comes in 1 size, 62 mm. In clinical trials it makes a good seal over the cervix and should be a good contraceptive. It is not felt by the male partner. It will be useful for couples desiring coitus during menses, especially those using natural family planning. It is disposable, but can be washed and re-used. It can be left in place for 12 hours during menses, or longer at other times.