The Cervical Cap

The cervical cap is a method of birth control for women. It is to be inserted under doctor’s supervision. It has many advantages over other methods of birth control. Read on to know more about cervical cap.The cervical cap operates on the same premise as a diaphragm, i.e. it prevents the sperm from getting into the uterus. It is 85% effective. As in the case of the diaphragm, you will need a prescription to get the right size and it will have to be inserted under doctors supervision the first time. The difference is that it is smaller and more rigid and fits snugly over the cervix.The cervical cap has certain advantages over the diaphragm. It can be left in for up to forty-eight hours. Spermicide need not be reapplied for repeated intercourse. In addition, the cervical cap can be inserted at any convenient time and not necessarily just prior to intercourse. It provides moderate protection against venereal disease and does not affect the sensation during sex. However, it is more difficult to insert and remove than the diaphragm. As there are limited sizes, there is a greater risk of dislodgement as result of not getting the proper fit.You must have normal Pap smears before you can wear the cap. The cap cannot be worn during menses or in the first few weeks after delivery or an abortion as there is a slightly increased risk of toxic shock syndrome during these times. In this articleHow is a Cervical Cap Used?Advantages of Using a Cervical CapDisadvantage of Using a Cervical CapHow is a Cervical Cap Used?A cervical cap is inserted inside the vagina in such a way that it is covers the cervix. Before inserting the cervical cap a spermicide is applied on the its rim to make it more effective. The cervical cap blocks the entry of sperms to the uterus thereby preventing the fertilization of egg. The spermicide applied to it helps in immobilizing or killing the sperms so that fertilization is prevented. It should not be removed immediately after the last intercourse. It can be removed after 6 hours of the last intercourse.Advantages of Using a Cervical CapLet us take a look at some of the advantages of using a cervical cap.It does not reduce the sexual pleasure for both the partners if it is inserted appropriately.It is effective for any number of intercourses done within 48 hours.The chances of pregnancy are reduced up to 96% if used perfectly and to 85% - 90% in case of an ordinary usage.It can provide protection against certain sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhoea and chlamydia.Disadvantage of Using a Cervical CapHere are some of the disadvantages of using a cervical cap.It cannot be used when a woman gets her menstrual period.It is does not provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases like HIV or genital herpes.Women may face difficulty while inserting and removing it as compared to other contraceptive devices or condoms.If a woman continues to wear it for more than 48 hours, there is a risk that she may cope with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).In rare cases women may also experience mild reaction or allergy to spermicide or rubber due to prolonged use of more than 48 hours.Women may also cope with vaginal discharge or foul smell from vagina if they use it for more than 48 hours.If you want to opt for cervical cap as contraceptive, you must consult your doctor. Initially, your doctor may insert it for you and guide you on how you can insert it on your own for its subsequent use. You may also have to undergo certain test before using it as mentioned above. The cervical cap comes in different sizes and your doctor may advice you on the size of the cap that may fit you perfectly. He or she may also advice you on the circumstances in which you must not use it. You must seek proper guidance from your doctor on its usage to avoid any risk or discomfort. You must buy it from trusted stores like drugstore or chemist as recommended by your doctor.