A cervical cap is a thimble-shaped, soft rubber cap with a round rim that is fitted around the cervix by a health professional. Currently, the cervical cap is not available in the United States. A cervical cap prevents pregnancy, but does not protect against STD’s, including HIV/AIDS. It is available only with a doctor's prescription.

Use

The cap is placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix. It is recommended that spermicide be added to increase the effectiveness of this method.

The cervical cap acts by:

• blocking the entrance to the uterus;
• the spermicide acts by killing and immobilizing the sperm, preventing it from fertilizing the egg.

The cervical cap must be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse.

How to start

• If you already consulted with your doctor and decided to choose a cervical cap as a birth-control method, your vagina will need to be measured to determine the correct size you need.
• Your doctor will teach you how to correctly insert and remove the cap.