Cervical Cap

What is a cervical cap?

A thimble-shaped, soft rubber cap with a round rim that is fitted by a health professional to fit around your cervix.

How is it used?
The cap is placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix. It is recommended that spermicide be added to increase the effectiveness of this method.

The cervical cap acts by blocking the entrance to the uterus; the spermicide acts by killing and immobilizing the sperm, preventing it from fertilizing the egg.

The cervical cap must be left in place for at least six hours after last intercourse before removing.

Does it protect against STIs?
NO! The cervical cap protects against certain STIs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia, but does not protect against others such as HIV and herpes.

Does it protect against pregnancy?
Yes.

What are the chances of getting pregnant while using a cervical cap?

• Typical use: 20%


• Perfect use: 9%

Advantages for women while using a cervical cap?

• Unlike the diaphragm, the cervical cap protects against pregnancy for two days (48 hours) and for multiple acts of intercourse within that timeframe.


• When placed appropriately, the cervical cap is often not felt by either partner during sexual intercourse.

Disadvantages for women while using a cervical cap?

• The cervical cap is more difficult for women to learn to insert and remove than the diaphragm.


• If worn for more than two days (48 hours) you run the risk of:
  
  • Toxic shock syndrome.
  
  
  • Unpleasant vaginal odor.
  
  
  • Unpleasant vaginal discharge.
  
  
• Mild allergic reactions to the rubber or spermicide occasionally occur.

Things you should know:

• Cervical caps must be fitted by clinicians and purchased from a drugstore or clinic.


• Cost of purchase is covered by Medicaid.

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Additional Outside Sources

Below is additional information and resources. Some are links to other Internet pages, which might have information on health topics of interest to you. PAMF, however, does not sponsor or endorse any of these sites, nor does PAMF guarantee the accuracy of the information contained on them. In addition, PAMF has no control over the privacy practices of external Web sites. The user should read and understand the policies of all Web sites with respect to their privacy practices. These links are provided for your general information and education only, and should NOT be relied upon for personal diagnosis or treatment. If you have questions, please contact your health care provider.

Planned Parenthood. Birth Control [Online]. Accessed September 2007.

The National Women's Health Information Center. Birth Control Methods [Online]. Accessed September 2007.
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