Diaphragm (optics) 1889 "Dictionary of Photography" (see figure), but disappeared after Ernst Abbe's theory of stops unified these concepts. According to Rudolf Kingslake, the inventor of the iris diaphragm is unknown. Others credit Joseph Nicéphore Niépce for this device, around 1820. Mr. J. H. Brown, a member of the Royal Microscopical Society, appears to have invented a popular improved iris diaphragm by 1867. Kingslake has more definite histories for some other diaphragm types, such as M. Noton's adjustable "cat eye" diaphragm of two sliding squares in 1856, and the Waterhouse stops of John Waterhouse in 1858. Diaphragm (optics) In optics, a diaphragm
Diaphragm (birth control) woman may be fitted with a larger size diaphragm when she is near ovulation. The correct size for a woman is the largest size that she can wear comfortably throughout her cycle. In the United States, diaphragms are available by prescription only. Many other countries do not require prescriptions. The spring in the rim of the diaphragm forms a seal against the vaginal walls. The diaphragm covers the cervix, and physically prevents sperm from entering the uterus through the os. Traditionally, the diaphragm has been used with spermicide, and it is widely believed the spermicide significantly increases the effectiveness of