The cervical cap is not a widely used contraceptive method, and it is rarely recommended by healthcare providers. If you’re considering a cervical cap, it’s essential to talk with your doctor about its availability and suitability for you.
What is a Cervical Cap?
A cervical cap is a soft, rubber barrier that fits over the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
How Does It Work?
The cervical cap blocks most sperm from reaching the uterus. Additionally, a spermicide is applied to the cap to kill any sperm that may come into contact with the barrier.
Effectiveness
With typical use, cervical caps have an approximate failure rate of 20%. This means that about 20 out of 100 women may become pregnant within the first year of using this method. If you experience any signs of pregnancy, it’s advisable to take a pregnancy test.
Health Risks and Side Effects
The most common side effect of using a cervical cap is vaginal irritation. Some women may also notice an increase in urinary tract infections. It’s important to note that cervical caps should not be used by women who have:
- An abnormally shaped cervix
- A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Abnormal Pap tests
- Severe cervicitis
Is the Cervical Cap Reversible?
Yes, the cervical cap does not affect male fertility or female reproductive function. You can become pregnant right after stopping its use.
Cost
There are three main expenses associated with using a cervical cap: the doctor’s visit, the cap itself, and spermicide. A doctor’s appointment for a prescription can range from $50 to $200, while the cap can cost between $15 and $50. Spermicide products, such as gels or creams, typically range from $7 to $18 per package. The cervical cap can last for up to two years.
Cervical Caps and STIs
Cervical caps do not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Pros and Cons of Cervical Caps
Pros:
- Reusable and relatively inexpensive
- Small and portable
- Requires less spermicide than a diaphragm
- Rarely interferes with sexual experiences
- Can be used for repeated intercourse within a 48-hour window
Cons:
- Must be used consistently for each sexual encounter
- Spermicide may cause discomfort
- Requires a prescription
- Can lead to urinary tract infections
- May result in cervical changes, such as cervicitis
- Requires cleaning and proper storage
- May need resizing after pregnancy, abortion, pelvic surgery, or significant weight changes (20 pounds or more)
- Can become lodged in the cervix, necessitating removal by a healthcare professional
For more information on home insemination options, visit Make A Mom, which offers the only reusable insemination method, or check out How It Works for a detailed guide on the process. You can also explore a free sperm donor matching service in Las Vegas at Vegas Pregnancy.
For those interested in fertility resources, Womens Health is an excellent starting point. Additionally, if you’re curious about early pregnancy signs, our blog post on two positive pregnancy tests at Two Beautiful Pink Lines can be quite insightful. For expert insights on this topic, Modern Family Blog is a useful resource.
Summary
Cervical caps are a less common contraceptive option that provides a barrier against sperm. With a moderate effectiveness rate, they come with some health risks and side effects, including urinary tract infections and vaginal irritation. Proper consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial for those considering this method.