Contraception
Contraceptive Methods
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Cervical Cap
A deep silicone cap that fits against the cervix and prevents sperm and bacteria from entering.
Benefits
It provides a woman with privacy and control, because she can insert it before sex.
Effectiveness
There is a difference in effectiveness when used by women who have already given birth and women who have not. If used perfectly (meaning if it fits you well and you insert the cap correctly every time you have sex), the failure rate is of 9% in women who have never given birth. This means that if 100 women use the cap perfectly for a year, nine will likely become pregnant. However, the typical-use failure rate is 20%.
For women who have had children before, the failure rates are much higher: 26% for women who use the method perfectly every time, and 40% for the typical user.
Disadvantages
It doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and it must be used with spermicide, which kills sperm. A poor fit or latex allergy will prevent some women from using the cap.
Where to find it
Your doctor can fit you for a cap, and then you can purchase it online or from certain family planning clinics for about $40.
Troubleshooting
If the cap moves out of place during sex, see a doctor as soon as possible for emergency contraception. For increased protection against pregnancy and protection against STIs, use with a condom.
Last Modified: September 5, 2006
