A cervical cap is a birth control device that’s inserted into the vagina before sex to block sperm from entering the uterus. The cervical’s cap’s effectiveness is about 84 to 91 percent among women who haven’t given birth before – it’s less effective for women who have. Similar to a diaphragm, a cervical’s cap is easy to use and hormone-free. However, it doesn’t protect against STIs, can’t be used during your period, and can increase your risk of vaginal infection. Read on below for more pros and cons, plus how to use a cervical’s cap.
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What is a cervical cap?
- How do I use a cervical cap?
- Cervical cap effectiveness
- Pros and cons of using a cervical cap
- What happens if the cervical cap becomes dislodged?
- How do I get a cervical cap?
- Is there anyone who shouldn’t use a cervical cap?
What is a cervical cap?
A cervical’s cap is a birth control device that blocks sperm from entering the uterus. Comparing a cervical’s cap vs a diaphgram, a cervical’s cap is also a barrier method of contraception and is inserted into the vagina before sex. It’s a soft, deep, silicone cup that fits tightly over the cervix, held in place by suction. A cervical’s cap is shaped liked a sailor’s hat, with a strap on it to help you remove it after sex. A cervical’s cap is only effective when used with spermicide. Adding the spermicide to the cap provides a chemical barrier to kill any sperm that might get around the cap.
The FemCap is the only cervical’s cap with FDA approval in the United States. It comes in three sizes; your healthcare provider will determine which fit is best for you.
How do I use a cervical cap?
Before using your cervical’s cap, check to make sure it’s in good condition. Look for holes or damage and discard if you find any, or if the cap appears worn. Practice inserting and removing the cap before relying on it for contraception.
You can insert the cervical’s cap up to six hours before intercourse. Just be sure to insert it at least 15 minutes before you become aroused to ensure proper placement.
How to use a cervical’s cap:
- Empty your bladder.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Add spermicide to the cervical’s cap.
- Insert the cap into your vagina as directed by your doctor and the specific instructions that came with your cap. Squat down and separate your labia with one hand. With your other hand, squeeze the rim of the cervical’s cap with your thumb and index finger and hold the bowl facing upward. As you slide the cap into your vagina, make sure the taller brim enters first. Use your finger to locate the cervix and make sure the cap fully covers it.
You’ll need to leave the cap inside your vagina for at least six hours after the last act of intercourse to make sure it kills the sperm. The cap can remain inside your vagina for up to 48 hours after intercourse and you can use it if you want to have sex again within those 48 hours. If you have sex more than once during that timeframe, some experts recommend you apply more spermicide.
To remove a cervical’s cap:
- Squat, bear down, and rotate the cap.
- Relax your muscles. Push up on the dome of the cap to break the suction.
- Gently pull the strap to remove the cap.
- Wash the cap with mild soap and warm water. Let it air dry and store it in its provided container.
Talk to your healthcare provider if the cap feels uncomfortable or slips out when you walk, sneeze, or cough. You’ll need to replace your cervical’s cap after a year – or sooner if the device shows any sign of deterioration.
Cervical cap effectiveness
A cervical’s cap is one of the least effective forms of birth control and is much less reliable than hormonal methods, such as the Pill or the intrauterine device (IUD).
It’s more effective among women who have not given birth. As commonly used, 16 out of 100 women will become pregnant when using a cervical’s cap with spermicide over the first year. When correctly used with every act of sex, about 9 out of 100 women will become pregnant.
A cervical’s cap is less effective for women who have given birth before – as commonly used with spermicide, about 32 out of 100 women will get pregnant within the first year. If used correctly every time, this number decreases to about 26 pregnancies per 100 during the first year.
Pros and cons of using a cervical cap
The pros of using a cervical’s cap include:
- It’s hormone-free and does not affect your natural hormones.
- It can be inserted up to 40 hours before sex.
- It doesn’t affect your milk supply if you’re breastfeeding.
- A cervical’s cap can be used six weeks after childbirth.
- It allows prompt return to fertility
Some cons of using a cervical’s cap are:
- It doesn’t protect against STIs and can in fact increase your risk of HIV.
- A cervical’s cap is less effective if you’ve had a vaginal childbirth. Childbirth changes the size and shape of your cervix, so the cap might not fit as well.
- You can’t use a cervical’s cap during your period.
- It can increase your risk for a bladder infection, inflammation of the cervix, or toxic shock syndrome.
- It might cause vaginal irritation or odor.
What happens if the cervical cap becomes dislodged?
A major drawback to using a cervical cap is that it can be knocked out during sex. If your partner has already ejaculated inside your vagina and you realize afterward that your cervical cap was dislodged during intercourse, you’re at significant risk for pregnancy; most healthcare professionals would recommend using emergency contraception (EC) after this happens. Consider using the cervical cap with another form of birth control, such as a male condom or the Pill. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best birth control options for you.
How do I get a cervical cap?
You’ll need a prescription for a cervical cap. Your medical provider will measure your cervix to fit you for a cervical cap. The FemCap comes in three sizes, and you’ll need an annual pelvic exam to check the fit. Your provider will also need to check the fit if:
- You’ve been pregnant with a vaginal birth.
- You’ve had a miscarriage or abortion.
- You’ve had pelvic surgery.
- You gain or lose 10 pounds or more.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t use a cervical cap?
Yes. You shouldn’t use a cervical cap while on your period or any other time you have vaginal bleeding. You also cannot use a cervical cap if you have a history of:
- Certain types of Pap test abnormalities
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Toxic shock syndrome
- Cervical inflammation (cervicitis)
- Reproductive system infections
Don’t use a cervical cap if your cervix is abnormally shaped or you recently had cervical or vaginal surgery. The cap may not be a good option if you have frequent urinary tract infections, or if you want a highly effective method of contraception.
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