1. Fill the cap one-third full with spermicidal cream or jelly.
2. Find the position in which you feel most comfortable for inserting the cap; squatting or standing with one foot up on a chair is usually best. Locate your cervix with your finger; it will feel like a short, hard nose at the top of your vagina.
3. Separate the lips of your vagina with one hand and with the other squeeze the rim of the cap between your thumb and index finger.
4. Slide the cap into your vagina and push it inward along the rear wall of the vagina as far as it will go. Use your finger to locate the cervix, then press the rim of the cap around the cervix until it is completely covered.
5. Check that the cap is properly in place by pressing the dome of the cap with your index finger to make sure the cervix is covered. Then sweep your finger around the rim of the cap; the cervix should not be felt outside of the cap.
6. The cervical cap can be left in place for up to 48 hours with no need to reapply a spermicide. To remove the cap, insert your finger into your vagina and push gently on the dome of the cap to release the suction holding it in place. Remove the device. Wash it with warm water and a mild antibacterial soap, then allow it to air dry before returning it to its protective case.
