The cervical cap has no serious physical side effects. Common side effects that wear off one you stop usage include
– vaginal or skin irritation;
– frequent urinary tract infections;
– allergic reaction to the spermicide or the silicone materials used to make the cap;
– abnormal vaginal discharge (this happens when it stays in for too long);
– bacterial vaginosis or candidiasis (though uncommon); and
– toxic shock syndrome (in very rare cases) (7).
Cervical cap disadvantages
– It’s high effort. It needs to be in place every time you have sex. Inserting a cervical cap can take some time, and some women have a hard time doing it. It is, therefore, not a great option if you have sex often.
– Cervical caps are more effective if you have not given birth yet.
– In some places, you need a prescription to access one.
– It can get pushed out of place by large penises, heavy thrusting, or certain sexual positions.
– To use this method, you must first be comfortable with your body. If you are not comfortable putting your fingers inside your vagina, then consider a different method.
– It takes a bit of self-discipline and planning. You need to remember to insert your cervical cap every time you have sex.
– It’s hard to remember to use if you are drunk.
Does the cervical cap protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
A cervical cap doesn’t protect against STIs, but compared to a Diaphragm contraceptive, cervical caps are associated with a lower risk of urinary tract infections.
Using a spermicide multiple times a day can cause irritation which makes you more susceptible to STIs, including HIV. Use it in combination with an internal or external condom to reduce the chance of getting an infection.
