Patient Services: Cervical Cap

What is a cervical cap?

A cervical cap is a silicone cup inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy.

How does the cervical cap work?

The cervical cap works as a barrier method to prevent the sperm from joining with an egg by blocking the opening of the uterus. To be as effective as possible, the cervical cap must be used with a spermicide cream or jelly which stops the sperm from moving.

How effective is this method?

When used correctly, the cervical cap is 71-86 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.

What are the advantages of using this method?

• The cervical cap is small and can be carried in a pocket or purse.
• It is immediately effective and reversible.
• It has no effect on a woman's natural hormones and may be used while breastfeeding.
• It can be inserted up to six hours ahead of time so there is no disruption of sex play.
• It can be reused.

What are the disadvantages of using this method?

• It can be messy.
• Allergies to latex, silicone or spermicide can prevent the use of this method.
• Some women report the cervical cap is difficult to use.
• Does not prevent against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Birth Control Methods