Cervical Cap (FemCap)

Effectiveness: 80 to 90 percent for women who have not given birth; 60 to 74 percent for women who have given birth (14 pregnancies per 100 women each year who have never been pregnant or given birth vaginally; 29 pregnancies per 100 women each year who have given birth vaginally, and it's more effective when used with spermicidal cream or gel).

What is it? It's a cervical silicone cup (or cap) that you insert into your vagina over your cervix. It is more effective when you spread spermicide in the dome of the cup and around the brim. FemCap is the only brand available in the United States. It lasts up to 2 years.

How does it work? Used with spermicide, the cervical cap creates a physical and chemical barrier. The combination of the cap and spermicide physically blocks and kills sperm, preventing fertilization. You put a small amount of spermicide into the cup and around the edge and insert it over the cervix. It can be inserted up to 6 hours before sex and should be left in place at least 6 hours after sex. Do not leave the cap in place more than 48 hours. It can be used for multiple acts on intercourse, but check to make sure it's still in place and add spermicide before each act of intercourse.

STD protection: No; you will still need to use condoms if you are concerned about STDs.

Benefits: Readily available, easy to use and easy to carry. It does not affect your natural hormones and can be used during breastfeeding. Because it can be inserted up to 6 hours before sex, it doesn't need to interrupt foreplay. It is effective immediately and should stay in place for 6 hours after you have sex. It generally can’t be felt by your or your partner.