Cervical Cap

What is a cervical cap?

Like the diaphragm, the cervical cap fits over the cervix preventing the sperm from entering the uterus. It is a rubber device shaped like a thimble which fits snugly over the cervix. There is a controversy over whether spermicidal lubricants should be used with the cap. Some contend that the spermicide will increase the caps effectiveness others suggest that they decrease the suction which holds the cap onto the cervix. Please consult your physician for his or her opinion.

What is the effectiveness of the cervical cap?

If the cervical cap is used every time a couple has intercourse then its effectiveness is relatively high (91-94%). Nonetheless the typical user does not use the cap methodically. The effectiveness of the cap for the typical user is around 82%. Some failures may be due to difficulties in fitting the cap and some are due to inexperience in inserting the cap.

How is a cervical cap used?

The cervical cap must form a seal around the cervix to be effective. If you insert the cap just before sex then you must wait a few minutes for an acceptable seal to form. One advantage of the cervical cap is that it can be inserted for a period of up to 48 hours. This means that heat of the moment does not necessarily have to interrupted as with the diaphragm.

The cervical cap is inserted in the following manner. If you plan to use spermicide, one third of the cap should be filled with spermicidal jelly. It is important to make sure that no jelly gets on the inside rim which could interfere with the seal. Before continuing, it is a good idea to get into a comfortable position. Separate the vaginal lips with one hand; with the other squeeze the rim of the cap and insert it along the back wall of the vagina as far as possible. Check the rim of the cap to insure that the cervix is covered. Squeeze the dome to increase the seal. Then give the cap a gentle pull to check the seal. Finally, push the cap back into place. Please consult your physician or family planning center about inserting the cap, and which brand of cervical cap is right for you.

Leave the cap in place for 8 hours after coitus. After it has been removed, the cap can be washed with a weak solution of soap and water. Always check for holes, and dust with cornstarch. If odor is becoming a problem then soak the cap in a solution of lemon juice and water.

Practical concerns involved when using a cervical cap

There are a few advantages of the cap over the diaphragm. The first is that it interferes less than a diaphragm or condom with foreplay and the transition to intercourse because it can be inserted hours or even days before having sex. The cap uses less spermicide than the diaphragm so there is less of a problem with oral sex.

Of course, the cap has some limitations. The cap is NOT a good means of protecting oneself from sexually transmitted diseases. The cap may also cause an embarrassing odor if it is left in for a few days with spermicide. Occasionally the cap can become dislodged during intercourse rendering it ineffective.