Cervical cap
The cervical cap is not a
widely used method of birth control and very few medical professionals
recommend this type of birth control. If you are interested in a cervical cap,
be sure to check with your healthcare provider to see if this method is
available.
What is a cervical cap?
A soft rubber barrier that
covers the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. It works by
preventing most sperm from entering the uterus. A spermicide is added to the
cap to kill any sperm that might escape from the protection of the cap.
What is its effectiveness?
Normal use results in a
failure rate of approximately 20%. This means that 20 out of 100 people will
get pregnant within the first year of use. You must take a pregnancy test if
you have symptoms of pregnancy.
What are the side effects or health risks?
The most common side effect of
using a cervical cap is vaginal irritation. Some women also experience an
increase in bladder infections.
The cervical cap should not be
used by women who have:
- An abnormally shaped cervix
- History of inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs.
- Abnormal Pap smears
- Severe cervicitis
Is it reversible?
Yes. The cervical cap does not
affect the reproductive function of either the male or the female. It is
possible to become pregnant immediately after the plugs are no longer used.
What about sexually transmitted infections?
The cervical cap does NOT
provide protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections.
What are the pros and cons of cervical caps?
The pros:
- Reusable and relatively inexpensive
- Small and easy to carry
- Requires less spermicide than a diaphragm
- Rarely hinders the sexual experience
- May be used for repeated intercourse within a 48 hour period
The cons:
- Requires consistent use for each sexual encounter
- Spermicide may be messy
- A prescription is required
- May contribute towards urinary tract infections
- May cause cervical changes, such as cervicitis
- Must be cleaned and stored
- May need to be resized following a pregnancy, abortion, pelvic surgery, or weight loss or gain
- May get stuck in the cervix, requiring it to be removed by your doctor