gynecology and obstetrics
Barrier and Other Pericoital Contraceptives
Cervical cap
The cervical cap is made of silicone and resembles the diaphragm but is smaller and more rigid. A spermicidal cream or gel should always be used with a cervical cap. The cervical cap must be inserted before intercourse; it can be inserted 15 minutes to 40 hours beforehand. It should remain in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse and not more than 48 hours. Pregnancy rates are 18% with typical use in the first year, 10 to 13% with perfect use; rates are higher among parous women because obtaining a secure fit after childbirth is difficult. Only one cervical cap is available in the United States. It comes in 3 sizes (small, medium, large); size is chosen based on a woman's pregnancy history. A health care professional must write a prescription before the cervical cap can be used, but it does not require a custom fitting. 