Cervical Cap
What is a
cervical cap?
The cervical cap is a small cap made of soft
latex. A doctor or nurse practitioner "fits" a
woman for a cervical cap. The woman puts spermicide (which destroys the sperm)
in the cap and then places the cap up into her vagina and onto her cervix
(the opening of the womb). Suction keeps the cap
in place so sperm cannot enter
the uterus (the womb). Women should obtain a new
cap yearly. Among typical couples who initiate use
of the cap before having a child,
about 16 percent of women will experience an accidental pregnancy in the
first year. If the cervical cap is used consistently
and correctly, about nine percent
of women will become pregnant. Failure rates are significantly higher if
the cervical cap is used after a woman has had a
child. Use a condom for additional protection against HIV and other STIs.
What
are the advantages of choosing a cervical cap?
- The
cervical cap is small and easy to carry. May be put
in up to one hour before sex.
- It
will work continuously for 48 hours.
- It
does not matter how many times a couple has sex as
long as you leave it in at least six to eight hours
after the last time you have sex.
- Your
partner doesn't have to know you are using it.
What are the
disadvantages?
- Is not the best protection against HIV and other STIs.
- The
cervical cap must be fitted by a clinician.
- You
must wash your hands with soap and water before putting
in the cap.
- It
may interrupt sex.
- A
woman has to take it with her on vacations or trips.
- It
increases a woman's risk for inflammation of the surface
of the cervix.
- It
is difficult for some women to insert a cervical cap
properly even after being taught.
- If
left in too long, increases slightly a woman's risk
for a very serious infection called toxic shock syndrome.
Don't leave your cervical cap in for more than
48 hours.
- It
may accidentally be placed onto the cervix improperly
or may slip out of place during sex.
- After
putting it in, a woman must check to be sure it is
covering the opening of the uterus, called the cervix.
- New
fitting may be necessary after a baby, abortion, miscarriage,
or gaining 15 pounds.
- Latex
may cause irritation or a woman may be allergic
to it.
- A woman
should have a new cap each year.
- You need fresh spermicidal cream or jelly each time you use your cap.
- It is not recommended that you use a cervical cap during menstruation.*
Where
can I get a cervical cap?
Cervical caps may
be obtained from clinicians in health departments and local
family planning clinics.
* MayoClinic.Com. Birth Control Guide: Cervical Cap; http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/birth-control/BI99999/PAGE=BI00007; accessed 10/03/2006.
Adapted from Hatcher RA et al. Contraceptive Technology. 18th rev. edition. New York, NY: Ardent Media, 2004.
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