Barrier Methods of Birth Control (cont.)
Cervical cap
The cervical cap is a small (1-1/2 inches or about 3 cm.), thimble-shaped
dome made of latex or silicone rubber (it is much smaller than a diaphragm) and it fits
right over the cervix. The cervical cap is used along with a spermicide. One
small application of spermicide is placed inside the cap at the time of
insertion. The cap plus spermicide prevent sperm from going through the cervix and
entering the uterus.
A woman pushes the cervical cap up her vagina and into position over her
cervix. It can remain in place for up to 48 hours. Unlike the diaphragm, fresh
spermicidal jelly or foam does not need to be added each time intercourse is
repeated as long as the cervical cap is correctly positioned over the cervix.
As with the diaphragm, a cervical cap requires a prescription. A woman must
see a health care practitioner to determine the correct size and to ensure that
she understands the proper insertion technique.
There are no known related health risks associated with
using the cervical cap and spermicide method of birth control. Some women may
find spermicides to be irritating, but changing brands may help. The cervical
cap can be difficult to insert, but is handy for women who cannot use a
diaphragm because of poor muscle tone. Women who suffer from recurring urinary tract infections related to
diaphragm use may want to try using the cervical cap.
It is important to remember that using a cervical cap does not protect from
sexually transmitted infections, although spermicides may give some protection
against chlamydia and gonorrhea.
When the cervical cap and spermicide are used correctly, they are more than
80% effective for birth control, essentially the same reliability as the
diaphragm.
Previous contributing authors:
Barbara K. Hecht,
Ph.D. and Carolyn Janet Crandall, MD, FACP
Last Editorial Review: 2/5/2009
- Natural Methods of Birth Control - Natural methods of birth control are non-mechanical and non-hormonal. They are also considered fertility awareness methods and there are a variety of choices for natural birth control.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STDs) - Learn and become aware of common STDs in women, including descriptions, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of each type of infection.
- Hormonal Methods of Birth Control - Read about hormonal birth control methods, such as oral contraceptives, the patch, birth control injection, and vaginal ring. The hormones used in hormonal birth control are estrogen and/or progesterone.
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