The cervical cap is a barrier method of contraception that fits around the cervix and prevents sperm from entering the uterus. It has a high failure rate but is portable, reusable, and hormone-free. It needs to be fitted by a doctor and used with spermicide. It cannot be used during menstruation and may need to be replaced after pregnancy or vaginal birth. It is not effective against sexually transmitted diseases.
The cervical cap is a barrier method of contraception, meaning it prevents sperm from entering the uterus. This device looks like a small cup or thimble. It is usually made of silicone, rubber or latex and fits around the cervix. Cervical caps are not widely used, particularly in the United States. As of 2010, there was only one brand for sale in the United States
A woman must see a doctor to get fitted and get a prescription to get a cervical cap. There are three different sizes, designed for women with different obstetric histories. If a woman has never been pregnant, she would need the smallest size, while a woman who has been pregnant but has never given birth vaginally would need the medium size. A woman who has already had a vaginal birth would use the larger size.
The cervical cap is typically used with spermicide. Before intercourse, the woman should apply the spermicide directly to the hood and insert it into her vagina, until it covers her cervix. The device should be in place for at least six to eight hours, and it’s safe to leave it on for up to 48 hours. If a couple has intercourse more than once, more spermicide should be added each time. After use, the cervical cap should be washed with warm water and antibacterial soap.
According to Planned Parenthood, the failure rate for women who haven’t been pregnant or who have had a vaginal birth is 14%, meaning that out of 100 women, 14 got pregnant using the cervical cap. The failure rate for women who have had vaginal deliveries is 29%. With all contraceptive methods, the effectiveness increases when used correctly.
Some advantages of the cervical cap include portability, reusability, and relatively small size. Furthermore, it is usually not felt by either of you during intercourse, if positioned correctly. Another advantage is that it does not affect the woman’s hormones and is immediately reversible.
There are some disadvantages to using the cervical cap. It may be difficult to learn to use and it needs to be in place before any occurrence of vaginal intercourse. The device cannot be used during menstruation and may need to be replaced with a larger size after a woman becomes pregnant or has given birth. Perhaps most importantly, compared to other contraceptive methods, the failure rate is high.
The cervical cap is relatively safe to use; the most common side effect is some vaginal irritation. Some women who have had pelvic inflammatory disease, had cervicitis, or have an abnormally shaped cervix should not use this method of birth control. It is not an effective method of protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
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