Why it's done

When used with spermicide, the cervical cap helps prevent pregnancy. Among various benefits, the cervical cap:

• Allows prompt return to fertility
• Can be used while breast-feeding beginning six weeks after delivery
• Can be inserted hours before sex and remain in place for up to 48 hours
• Doesn't require a partner's cooperation
• Poses few if any side effects

The cervical cap isn't appropriate for everyone, however. Your health care provider may discourage use of the cervical cap if you:

• Are allergic to spermicide or silicone
• Are at high risk of or have HIV/AIDS
• Are at high risk of pregnancy — you're younger than age 30; you have sex three or more times a week; you've had previous contraceptive failure with vaginal barrier methods; or you're not likely to consistently use the cervical cap
• Have vaginal or cervical abnormalities that interfere with the fit, placement or retention of the cervical cap
• Have vaginal bleeding or have a vaginal, cervical or pelvic infection
• Have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, toxic shock syndrome, cervical cancer, third-degree uterine prolapse, uterine tract infections, or vaginal or cervical tissue tears
• Recently gave birth or had a miscarriage or an abortion
• Recently had cervical surgery