D like diaphragm

D as in Diaphragm

 The diaphragm is the dome-shaped sheet of muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen.  It is also referred to the thoracic diaphragm because it’s located in the thoracic cavity, or chest.  It is attached to the spine, ribs and sternum and is the main muscle of respiration, playing a very important role in the breathing process. The lungs are enclosed in a kind of cage in which the ribs form the sides and the diaphragm, an upwardly arching sheet of muscle, forms the floor.  When we breathe, the diaphragm is drawn downward until it is flat.  At the same time, the muscles around the ribs pull them up like a hoop skirt.  The chest, or thoracic cavity, becomes deeper and larger, making more air space.

There are openings in the diaphragm for the esophagus, the phrenic nerve (which controls the movements of the diaphragm to produce breathing), and the aorta and vena cava blood vessels, which lead to and from the heart. When air is drawn into the lungs, the muscles in the diaphragm contract, and pull the central tendon down.  This enlarges the chest (thoracic cavity), and air then passes into the lungs to fill the larger space.

The diaphragm sometimes contracts involuntarily due to certain irritations.  These contractions can happen because we eat too quickly, drink sodas, experience some acid indigestion, or are dealing with a stressful day.  If air is inhaled at these times of contraction, the space between the vocal cords at the back of the throat closes suddenly, producing the clicking noise we call hiccups.

Short-lived hiccuping episodes are very common.  Longer term hiccups (lasting for days) can occur as well and are usually caused by irritated nerves, though medical attention would be needed in order to rule out other health concerns.

The diaphragm is also a dome-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy.  The diaphragm is flexible and made out of latex or rubber.  The diaphragm is a convenient birth control choice because it is simple, portable, and easy to insert.  Because the diaphragm can be inserted in advance, it does not necessarily interrupt the sexual experience.  Many women prefer the diaphragm because, unlike many hormonal birth control options, it does not interfere with the body’s natural hormones.

The diaphragm does not protect from sexually transmitted diseases.  It is not the most effective form of birth control, as there is more room for error if the diaphragm slips during intercourse or does not fit right.  The diaphragm is slightly less convenient than other barrier methods of birth control because you must have a prescription and medical fitting before use.

When you are like me, out of the age group of having this concern, it is important to breath right to keep the diaphragm engaged.