• The FemCap is a washable and reusable vaginal barrier method of birth control. It is  made of silicone, is shaped like a sailor’s cap, and lasts about two years.     
  
  

• It fits over the cervix and must be used with a contraceptive cream or jelly.
  
  

• A clinician must write you a prescription for the Fem Cap.
  
  

• Use it every time you have sex.
• Always use contraceptive cream or jelly with insertion.
• Insert the FemCap before sexual excitement begins.
• Check to see that FemCap is covering the cervix before and every time you have sex.
• Leave FemCap in place for at least six hours after the last time you had sex.
• Check FemCap for holes or weak spots once a month.
  
  

• It can be left in place for up to 42 hours before intercourse.
• It has fewer known side effects than hormone methods.
• It rarely causes a change in your menstrual period.
  
  

• FemCap offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). 
• Some women or their partners may feel pain or discomfort.
• Some women may find it difficult to put in or take out.
• FemCap may be pushed out of place during intercourse, and pregnancy may result. 
• Intercourse must happen within 42 hours of insertion.

Effectiveness: 84% if you have not had a vaginal birth, 71% if you have had a vaginal birth.

More information on Fem Cap.