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HOW IT WORKS:

Basic Cap: A soft, rubber dome forms a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the cervix.  A spermicidal gel, which is always used with it, kills or immobilizes sperm.  Disposable Cap: A soft latex one-sixe-fits all cap forms a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the cervix.  A spermicidal gel, which is always used with it, kills or immobilizes sperm.

EFFECTIVENESS:

85% for women who have never a a baby 70% for women who have had a baby

AVERAGE COST:

$35 - 75 - Plus the cost of the gel for hard rubber; $75 - 99 for disposable caps, Plus the cost of the gel

ADVANTAGES:

Safe. Fertility returns immediately with discontinued use.  Disposable cap does not need to be fitted nor needs a prescription.  Can be inserted several hours before lovemaking.  May be left in place 24-48 hours.  Less spermicide is used than with the diaphragm.  No need to apply more spermicide with each act of intercourse.  May give some protection against chlamydia and gonorrhea.

DISADVANTAGES:

Hard rubber cap Must be fitted by a health care professional and Needs prescription.  Limited sizes available.  Must be left in place 6-8 hours after intercourse.  Must be used each time.  May become dislodged.  Some women may be allergic to spermicides, latex. Must be replaced periodically.  Cannot be used by women with a history of abnormal pap smears, toxic shock syndrome.  Need more frequent pap smears the first 1-2 years of use because it may cause changes in the cells of the cervix.

HOW TO USE IT:

Place spermicide into the cap and place snugly over the cervix.  (Please see additional information for correct placement.)

YOU NEED TO CALL A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF:

You experience any of the following: soreness of the vagina; rash in the genital area; or profuse, foul-smelling or itchy discharge.

Additional Information: Graphics, correct usage and important links for this method of Birth Control.

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