m A cervical cap is a latex, ë
  



that is inserted into the vagina and fits snugly
over the cervix. Suction keeps the cap in place. A
cervical cap provides a barrier to block sperm
from entering the uterus and prevents
fertilization. After intercourse, it should be left in
place for 8 hours. A cervical cap is used with
spermicidal jellies or creams that kill sperm. As
birth control, cervical caps are 84-91% effective
for women who have never given birth. They are
68-74% effective for women who have given
birth.
V
 ë 
 
ith a little practice, the cervical
cap is easy to use.

m ash your hands with soap and water.
m Put one-quarter teaspoon of spermicide in the
dome of the cervical cap and spread a thin
layer on the brim.
m Put one-half teaspoon in the folded area
between the brim and the dome.
m uind a comfortable position Ͷ stand with one
foot on a chair, sit on the edge of a chair, lie
down, or squat.
m Put your index and middle fingers in your vagina
to locate your cervix. That way, you will know
where to place the cap.
m Separate the labia with one hand and squeeze
the rim of the cap together with the other hand.
Slide the cervical cap dome-side down into the
vagina, with the long brim entering first.
m Push down toward the anus and then up and
onto the cervix. Make sure the cervix is
completely covered. (It is easier to insert
before you are sexually aroused.)
V
 
ë  
  

 ë
  

 ith each act of intercourse, check
that the cervical cap is still covering the
cervix. You can leave the cap in place
and insert more spermicide deep into
your vagina.
The cervical cap must stay in place six
hours after the last intercourse.
Do not leave the cervical cap in place
for more than 48 hours.
!"
m ash your hands with soap and water.
m Squat down. Grip the removal strap and rotate
the cervical cap. Push on the dome with your
finger to break the suction.
m Vook your finger under the removal strap and
pull the cap out.
 AARENESS
m The highest risk of pregnancy
occurs during the first few
months women use cervical
caps. To increase effectiveness
during these months and every
time you have a new partner,
check the position of your cap
before and after intercourse to
make sure that it stays in place. If
the cap moved during
intercourse, consider using
emergency contraception.
 
ë
m Úan be inserted many hours before sex play
m Easy to carry around, comfortable.
m Does not alter the menstrual cycle.
m Does not affect future fertility
m May help you better know your body
 

ë
m Does not protect against VIV/AIDS.
m Requires a fitting in a clinic.
m Some women cannot be fitted.
m Úan be difficult to insert or remove
m Úan be dislodged during intercourse.
m Possible allergic reactions.
ARNING!
m "# $ Your cervical cap should be used
by you and only you. Do not share it with
friends.