Health Services
Self Care

Cervical Cap

Description
The cervical cap is a barrier contraceptive method. Currently available cervical caps are deep, soft, rubber cups with a firm round rim that fits over the cervix. A small groove along the inner rim of the cap helps hold it in place. The cap functions as a physical barrier to sperm and as a reservoir for spermicide. These two functions lower the risk of pregnancy by reducing the chance of viable sperm reaching a ripened egg.

Instructions
Your cervical cap will be fitted by a clinician after you have completed a gynecological exam and pap smear.  You will have a practice session with a clinician until you feel comfortable with its use. Use a back-up method for the first 10 uses of your cap, and check the position of the cap as soon as possible after intercourse to make sure it has not dislodged. Do not use your cap during your menstrual period.

Check your cap for holes or deterioration prior to use by holding it up to the light and stretching the latex, or fill the cap with water and check for seepage.

To insert your cap, fill the dome of the cap 1/3 full of contraceptive cream or jelly. Pinch the rim together between your thumb and index finger of one hand and push it up into the vagina as far as you can. Use your index and middle finger to push the cap over the cervix. Then, push on the dome for suction. Run your finger around the rim to make sure that the cervix is covered. Wiggle the cap with your fingers to make sure that it cannot be dislodged easily. The cap must be left in place for a minimum of 8 hours after the last act of intercourse. The cap should not be left in for longer than 48 hours. Do not douche with the cap in place.

Remove your cap by pushing it to one side with your finger, then hook your finger over the rim and pull down sharply to release the suction and remove the cap from the vagina.

Care of the Cap
Wash the cap thoroughly with warm water and mild soap after use. Turn the cap inside out to clean the groove with a cotton swab. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Dust the cap with cornstarch, if desired, and store in its case away from heat. Avoid exposing the cap to heat, excessive sunlight, petroleum products and chemicals.

Advantages
As a non-invasive barrier, the cap does not affect your hormone pattern. The cap may be left in place for up to 48 hours, allowing spontaneous but protected sex. The cap requires less spermicide than the diaphragm and there is no need to insert more spermicide with repeated intercourse. The cap may provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

Disdvantages
Because there are anatomical variations in women and there are a limited number of available cap sizes, it is not possible to fit every woman properly. The cap may be more difficult or awkward to insert. Also, the cap may increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome.

Allergies to latex or spermicide may preclude use of the cap. Some people may find the spermicide to be irritating. Some women may have more vaginal or bladder infections while using cervical caps.

Effectiveness
Many factors influence the contraceptive effectiveness of all barrier contraceptive methods. Correct fitting, and consistent and correct use are essential. Variations in fertility, age, frequency of intercourse may all affect the effectiveness of the cervical cap. Research studies have yielded a wide range of effectiveness rates, but the following statistics may be helpful:

	Typical Use	Perfect Use
Cerviacal Cap: Women/never pregnant	18%	9%
Cervical Cap: Women/history of pregnancy	36%	26%
Diaphragm: All Women	18%	6%

More Information/Questions
Messiah College students may call Student Health Service at (717) 691-6035 for more information.