WE’RE HERE TO GET THIS METHOD WORKING BETTER FOR YOU. And if it still doesn’t feel right, we’ve got ideas for other methods. Just remember: If you change methods, make sure you’re protected during your switch.
THE CERVICAL CAP IS CAUSING IRRITATION
The irritation could actually be from an allergy to
spermicide.
Still not working?
If you’ve tried different types of spermicides and are still having irritation, think about trying a method that doesn’t require any, like the
IUD,
shot,
patch,
pill,
ring, or
implant. If you want to stick with a barrier method, you could try non-spermicidal
male condoms.
Try this: If the irritation isn’t too bad, you might want to try another brand of
spermicide.
I’VE NOTICED A NASTY SMELL WITH THE CERVICAL CAP.
This can happen if you’ve left it in more than 48 hours.
Try this: Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry. If the odor sticks around, you may want to get checked for a condition called bacterial vaginosis (also known as BV, a condition that can cause that bad-smelling discharge).
I SCRATCHED THE SURFACE OF MY CERVIX. OUCH.
That sounds horrible, but luckily, shouldn’t happen very often.
Still not working?
If you want to try something else and really want to stick with a barrier method, check out one that you don’t have to insert, like
male condoms or
female condoms. Or check out a method you can “forget about” for a while, like the
IUD,
implant,
shot,
ring, or
patch.
I CAN’T GET THE CERVICAL CAP IN (OR OUT) EASILY.
If you’re new to the cervical cap, check out our “how to.” Practice a little more and do so when it’s not the heat of the moment. Hopefully you’ll soon find it easy to use.
Still not working?
If you still find it hard to use after a bit of practice, you might want to consult your healthcare provider or try a new method. If you really want to stick with a barrier method, check out one that you don’t have to insert, like
male condoms or
female condoms. Or check out a method you can “forget about” for a while, like the
IUD implant,
ring or
patch.