Cap with spermicide

Caps are small rubber domes which fit into the vagina and go over the cervix. They should be used with spermicide to prevent pregnancy.

Caps are made of flexible rubber or silicone and you need to insert them into the vagina every time you have sex in order to prevent pregnancy. They come in different sizes and will be fitted to suit you, so you need to get one fitted by a doctor or nurse before using it for the first time.

You should remember that the cap with spermicide will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The only way to protect yourself from STIs is to use a condom every time you have sex.

Spend a bit of time looking here and finding out more about caps and if you have any questions, call Ask Brook on 0808 802 1234. Your call will be confidential. That means we won't tell anyone about it.

How does the cap with spermicide work?
How do you use the cap with spermicide?
What's good about the cap with spermicide?
What do you need to watch out for with the cap with spermicide?
How effective is the cap with spermicide?
What makes the cap with spermicide less effective?
Who can use the cap with spermicide?

How does the cap with spermicide work?

The cap stops sperm from entering the womb by covering the cervix. You need to use spermicide as well (a gel which kills sperm) to make sure no sperm survive. Between them, the cap and the spermicide form an effective barrier.

How do you use the cap with spermicide?

You simply put the spermicide on the cap and then place it inside the vagina to cover the cervix each time you have sex. You can put the cap in a little time before you have sex but if you put it in more than three hours before, you will need to use extra spermicide. You need to leave the cap in place for six hours after you have sex.

What's good about the cap with spermicide?

• Can be put in before sex so it doesn't disturb the moment.
• It's not affected by any medicines.
• You and your partner can't feel it when you have sex.
• It doesn't disturb your menstrual cycle.

What do I need to watch out for with the cap with spermicide?

• The first fitting must be done by a trained doctor or nurse to make sure it's the right size.
• It doesn't protect you against STIs - you'll need to use a condom.
• It can take a little getting used to before you're confident using it.

How effective is the cap with spermicide?

The cap with spermicide is 92-96% effective if used properly. This means that 4 - 8 women in every 100 who use the cap will get pregnant each year.

What makes the cap with spermicide less effective?

You must leave it in for at least 6 hours after having sex. You'll need to use more spermicide if you have sex again, or if you have sex more than three hours after putting it in.

If you gain or lose more than 7lbs in weight, have a baby, a miscarriage or an abortion, you should check with a doctor or nurse to see if your cap still fits.

Who can use the cap with spermicide?

Caps are suitable for most women. But some women can be allergic to rubber or spermicides or may have other conditions which prevent a cap being used. Check with your doctor or nurse to see if a cap with spermicide will suit you.