Tips for Users

• Spermicides should be stored in a cool, dry place, if possible, out of the sun. Suppositories may melt in hot weather. If kept dry, foaming tablets are not as likely to melt in hot weather.
• The diaphragm should be stored in a cool, dry place, if possible.
• She needs a new diaphragm fitted if she has had a baby or a second-trimester miscarriage or abortion.

"Come Back Any Time": Reasons to Return

Assure every client that she is welcome to come back any time—for example, if she has problems, questions, or wants another method; she has any major change in health status; or she thinks she might be pregnant.

General health advice: Anyone who suddenly feels that something is seriously wrong with her health should immediately seek medical care from a nurse or doctor. Her contraceptive method is most likely not the cause of the condition, but she should tell the nurse or doctor what method she is using.

Repeat Visits

1. Ask how the client is doing with the method and whether she is satisfied. Ask if she has any questions or anything to discuss.
2. Ask especially if she has any problems using the method correctly and every time she has sex. Give her any information or help she needs (see Managing Any Problems, below).
3. Give her more supplies and encourage her to come back for more before she runs out. Remind her where else she can obtain more spermicides when needed.
4. Ask a long-term client if she has had any new health problems since her last visit. Address problems as appropriate. See also new health problems that may require switching methods.
5. Ask a long-term client about major life changes that may affect her needs—particularly plans for having children and STI/HIV risk. Follow up as needed.