How Is the Cervical Cap Used?
The cervical cap is used the same way as a diaphragm. The woman coats the cap with spermicide and inserts the cap into her vagina and up to her cervix before sex. Unlike the diaphragm and older versions of the cervical cap, the spermicide is put on the side of the cap facing away from the cervix. This lessens the potential irritation to the cervix. The cap blocks the cervix and the spermicide paralyzes the sperm. If sex is repeated it is not necessary to reapply the spermicide but you should check the placement of the cap. (Do not remove the cap each time you have sex.) Do not remove the cervical cap for at least six hours after intercourse. The cap can be kept in place for up to 48 hours.
