The cervical cap is a barrier method of contraception.

A cervical cap is a device that is inserted into the vagina.

It has a thimble shape and fits snugly over the cervix; suction is used to keep the cap in place. The inside of the cap should be filled with a spermicide to combat sperm which get past the cap. There are caps in different styles and sizes. They are made of latex or medical silicone .

Initially a health care provider should find the right size for the user. The cap must be inserted at least 1 hour before sexual intercourse and has to remain in the vagina for eight hours after the last act.

The cervical cap is 80-90% effective at preventing pregnancy for women who have never given birth vaginally; effectiveness drops to 60-75% after vaginal birth due to shape changes of the cervix and vaginal canal.

The cap-like device Lea Contraceptive (US Brand, in Canada: lea's shield, in Europe: LEA contraceptivum) needs no fitting. It stays in place because of suction.

External links

• Diaphragms and Caps (Yahoo Group)
• German mailorder house