The Cervical Cap
What is a Cervical Cap?
The cervical cap is a soft rubber dome that fits over the cervix and is used along with spermicidal jelly. This barrier method works in two ways—by blocking nearly all the sperm and killing any sperm that slip past.
How effective is the Cervical Cap?
The Cervical Cap is most effective when used correctly — that is, making sure the cervical cap is in the correct position and the cervix is covered before EACH act of intercourse. Also, it is more effective for women who have never experienced a vaginal birth. For women who have never been pregnant or had a vaginal birth, 14 women out of 100 who use the Cervical Cap will become pregnant in a year. For those women who have had a vaginal birth, 29 out of 100 will be come pregnant in a year.
Will the Cervical Cap protect against STD’s?
No, the Cervical Cap does not protect against STD’s by itself. For STD protection you will need to use a male or female condom along with the cervical cap.
What about Convenience?
A woman inserts the Cap before intercourse and leaves it in place for a least six hours after sexual intercourse. The Cervical Cap can be in place for up to 48 hours at a time, which makes it easy to use regardless of the number of times a woman has sex. The main drawback to the Cervical Cap is that women must go to a clinic to get fitted for it.
Where can I get a Cervical Cap?
A Cervical Cap is obtained from a health clinic so it can be fitted for each individual woman.
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Cervical Cap - One Woman's Story
More Information about the Cervical Cap