Cervical cap
By Mayo Clinic staffThe cervical cap is a reusable, deep rubber cup shaped like a sailor's hat that fits over the cervix. By covering the cervix, the cap prevents sperm from entering the uterus and coming in contact with the egg. Only the FemCap cervical cap is available in the United States at this time.
Effectiveness rate. For women who've never had children, the typical effectiveness rate of the cervical cap is 86 percent. In other words, 14 out of 100 women using the cap for one year will get pregnant. The typical effectiveness rate for the cap in women who have had children declines to 71 percent, because the cervical shape changes after childbirth, making cap fitting more difficult. These rates are based on an older version of the FemCap cervical cap. No published studies document the effectiveness rates for the second generation of the FemCap — the one that's currently marketed in the United States — but the manufacturer claims that the newer device is likely more effective than was the original device. How much more effective isn't precisely known.
The most common cause of cervical cap failure is dislodgement of the cap from the cervix during sex.
Side effects and health risks. Side effects are infrequent. Some women may experience vaginal irritation from the spermicide that's applied to the cap. Though rare, risks include:
- Urinary tract infection
- Vaginal infection
- Toxic shock syndrome with prolonged use
Cervical caps do not provide protection against STDs.
How to use the cervical cap. If you decide on the cervical cap, your doctor fits you with one of the available sizes and demonstrates how to insert and remove the device. The fitted cervical cap is held in place by the cervix, and includes a strap for removal. To be most effective, the cervical cap is used with a sperm-destroying (spermicidal) cream, foam or gel. Insert the cervical cap no more than six hours before sex.
Here are some additional tips for cervical cap insertion:
- Before insertion, fill the dome of the cap one-third full with spermicide.
- Separate your labia with one hand. With the other hand, squeeze the rim of the cap between your thumb and index finger.
- Slide the cap into your vagina and push it along the rear wall of the vagina as far as it will go. This can be done standing, with one foot propped up, squatting or lying on your back.
- Using your finger to locate your cervix, press the rim of the cap around the cervix until you've completely covered it.
- Check the cap position by pressing the dome of the cap to make sure your cervix is covered. Sweep your finger around the cap rim. You should not be able to feel the cervix outside the cap.
After sex, leave the cap in place for at least six hours and up to two days. After removal, wash the cap with mild soap and warm water and let it air-dry. With proper care, the cap can last one to two years, but you should examine it regularly for holes, tears or leaks.
Some women may not be suited for the cervical cap due to:
- The size or position of their cervix
- Poor vaginal muscle tone
- An infection or, in rare circumstances, a scar from a cut or tear in the pelvic area
Don't wear the cervical cap during any kind of vaginal bleeding, including your menstrual period.
Cost and availability. Cost of a cap starts at about $72. The cervical cap is available only with a doctor's prescription. The initial examination that's required for a cervical cap fitting costs $50 to $200. You may need to replace the cap every year or so, depending on whether the cap shows signs of wear.
