You may or may not have heard of this birth control method. A cervical cap, or as it is called in English, is a small device used to prevent pregnancy. It is like a small hat, made of silicone or rubber. You insert it into your vagina before having sex. It then goes into place and covers the cervix. This blocks the way for sperm to meet an egg.
What does this cervical cap look like? How does it work?
Think of it like a little sailor's hat, some people describe it. It has a little brim around it, and the middle is a little raised, like a cup. It also has a little strap that makes it easy to remove when you're done using it.
So, how does it work? Simply put, it acts as a barrier . That is, it stops sperm from entering the uterus and meeting with an egg. This cap completely covers your cervix, which is the entrance to your uterus.
Many people add spermicide to the cap when they use it. This can be a cream or a gel. The spermicide kills or stops the sperm that might try to get through the cap. This provides a chemical barrier in addition to the physical barrier provided by the cap, so it is even more secure.
These cervical caps come in different sizes. A doctor will help you choose the right size for you. It should fit snugly around your cervix so that it doesn't move around during sex.
How successful is this method?
Like all birth control methods, this cervical cap is only effective if used correctly and consistently . If you don't follow the instructions exactly, and if you don't use it every time you have sex, your risk of pregnancy increases. Also, the cap must be firmly and securely in place on the cervix. Otherwise, it will be less effective.
Another thing is, if you have had a normal birth , this method is less likely to be successful. This is because the vagina and cervix stretch during childbirth, so the cap may not fit properly. This method is said to be about 86% successful for someone who has not had children. However, for someone who has had a child, this method may be about 71% successful.
To be honest, this cervical cap is not as effective as other methods such as birth control pills, patches, rings, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).
How do I choose the right cervical cap for me?
These caps come in different sizes (small, medium, large), so it is essential to seek help from a doctor to choose the right size for you. The size of the cap you need to use may also change as your body changes. For example, after having a baby or having a miscarriage, you may need to choose a new size cap. Remember, this only works if you use it correctly. Using the wrong size can lead to an unplanned pregnancy.
How do you use this?
You may need to practice inserting it. Ask your doctor for help the first time, or read the instructions on the package carefully and do it that way. The most important thing is that the cap covers your entire cervix and is firmly in place.
Before each use, check the cap for holes or other damage. If there are any, do not use it. These holes can allow sperm to enter.
You can insert this cap about six hours before having sex.
Here's how to insert the cervical cap:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Insert one of your fingers into your vagina and find your cervix . It's shaped like a doughnut and feels like the tip of your nose.
3. Apply spermicide to the cup-like part of the cervical cap and the flat rim around it. Also apply spermicide to the groove between the rim and the cup-like part.
4. Get into a position that is comfortable for you. Many people do this by putting one leg on a chair or sitting on the floor.
5. Spread the labia apart with one hand and remove the cap with the other hand.
6. Squeeze the cap slightly on both sides and insert it into the vagina. The side with the strap should be underneath .
7. Make sure the cap is completely covering the cervix . If necessary, you can insert a finger to check if it is in place.
How do I remove this?
After sex, you should leave the cap in place for at least six hours . To remove it, do the following:
1. Get into a position that is comfortable for you (e.g. sitting).
2. Find that belt with your fingers.
3. Press the top part (dome) of the cap slightly with your finger to loosen the suction.
4. Hold the strap and pull the cap down and out.
Then, wash the cap thoroughly with warm water and a little soap . Let it dry completely and store it in the container it came in.
How long can you keep this inside?
The cap should be left in place for at least 6 hours after the last time you had sex. However, it is not recommended to leave it in for more than 48 hours (two days) in total . If you are using it with spermicide, you should apply a new layer of spermicide each time you have sex.
How long can one cervical cap be used?
If you take good care of it, you can use a cervical cap for about two years . It is very important to clean it properly after each use, store it properly, and check it for damage. Here are some tips for that:
- Wash only with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Open it to air dry well.
- Do not apply anything other than spermicide (such as lubricants used during sexual intercourse) to the cap.
- Keep the cap in its container and do not store it in extremely hot or cold places.
- Fill the cap with water and check for holes or cracks . If there are any, do not use it.
Does it hurt when you wear this?
No, using a cervical cap should not cause pain . If you do, you may need a different size, or this method may not be right for you. See your doctor and ask them how to put it on properly. It could also be because you put it on incorrectly.
What are the benefits of cervical cap?
This method has several advantages:
- This is small, inexpensive, and reusable.
- This can be used even if you have sex multiple times within 48 hours (you need to apply a new spermicide each time).
- If it's done correctly, most of the time, neither of you will notice this.
- This is a method that can be easily reversed . This means that you can get pregnant as soon as you stop using it.
- This does not contain hormones.
- You can put it on up to 6 hours before having sex, so you don't need to worry about that.
What about the disadvantages?
The biggest challenge with this is that you have to use it consistently, accurately, and without forgetting. If it's not properly inserted, it can come off during sex. Some other disadvantages include:
- You need a doctor's prescription to get this.
- Using spermicide can be a bit uncomfortable and confusing for some people.
- Sometimes the vagina can become irritated and itchy.
- You need to remember to remove it after two days (48 hours).
- This does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Important: You should see a doctor to get a new, appropriately sized cap in the following cases:
>
* After a normal delivery.
* After an abortion or miscarriage.
* After pelvic surgery.
* If you lose or gain weight significantly.
What are the risks of using a cervical cap?
Using a cervical cap may slightly increase the risk of certain health conditions. Some of these include:
- Bladder and urinary tract infections (`(Bladder and urinary tract infections)`).
- Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix).
- Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
To reduce the risk of TSS, you should remove the cap after 48 hours. Also, it is not recommended to use it during your menstrual period, as this can increase the risk of TSS. If you are unable to remove the cap, see a doctor to have it removed.
Complications from this method are very rare, but it is best to talk to your doctor about the risks involved before using it.
Who is this cervical cap not suitable for?
If you have any of these conditions, cervical cap may not be the best option for you:
- Some types of abnormal Pap test results.
- Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix).
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
- Reproductive system infections (`(Reproductive system infections)`).
- Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
Also, do not use a cervical cap in these cases:
- If your cervix is irregularly shaped.
- If you have had surgery on your cervix or vagina.
- If you have difficulty inserting your fingers into your vagina.
- If you are allergic to silicone or spermicide.
- If you are having your period.
Is the cervical cap or diaphragm better for birth control?
Choosing a birth control method is a very personal decision. Both the cervical cap and the diaphragm are barrier methods that block the cervix and prevent pregnancy. Both can be used with spermicide for added protection. Here are some of the differences between the two:
- The diaphragm might be a little easier to insert and remove.
- The cervix is small, with a brim like a sailor's cap. The diaphragm is like a cup, and it has no brim.
- It can be left in place for longer than a diaphragm.
Depending on your preferences, your doctor can help you choose which of these two is right for you.
Where can I get this cervical cap?
These can only be purchased with a prescription. You can get them at your local pharmacy. Most health insurance plans cover birth control, but you must see a doctor to get a prescription.
When should I see a doctor?
If you are using a cervical cap for birth control, see a doctor if you experience these symptoms:
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
- A foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- If the vulva is swollen, red, and itchy.
- If the vagina is painful, looks injured, or feels uncomfortable.
Also, if you can't remove the cap or it gets stuck (this happens very rarely), see a doctor.
Very rarely, cervical caps can contribute to the development of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Symptoms of TSS include:
- Fever.
- A skin rash.
- Diarrhea or vomiting.
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Feeling dizzy and weak.
Finally, I have to say... (Take-Home Message)
A cervical cap is a barrier method of birth control that some people use to prevent pregnancy. It is most effective when used with a spermicidal gel or cream. If you are interested in this method, talk to your doctor. You should get help from a doctor to choose the right size cap for you and to make sure it fits your cervix properly. Your doctor can also help you learn how to insert and remove it. Follow the instructions on the package carefully, and be sure to remove it within 48 hours of having sex. Leaving it in longer than that can increase your risk of certain health problems. Remember, the most important thing is to know how to use it correctly.
` Cervical Cover, Birth Control, Women's Health, Spermicide, Reproductive Health, Cervical Cap, Birth Control
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න