13

METHOD
SUCCESS RATE
BENEFITS
DRAWBACKS
HOW TO GET IT
10
A woman uses spermicide to
coat the inside and outer edge
of this dome-shaped silicone
or latex cup with a flexible rim. Then she inserts it into the back
of her vagina so that it covers the
cervix, where it blocks sperm.
With typical use, 16 women out
of 100 will become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, six women out of 100 will become pregnant in one year.
It can be put in place up to six hours before intercourse and can stay there for 24 hours (though fresh spermicide should be applied each time you have intercourse).
Won’t effectively protect against most STDs, including HIV, and
can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and toxic shock
syndrome. Don’t use oil-based lubricants, as they can damage
the diaphragm. Can be messy (thanks to the spermicide) and clumsy to use until you get the hang of it. Also, it has to stay in place for six hours after the last
act of intercourse and then
needs to be washed thoroughly with soap and water.
Through a prescription from
a health care provider; the cost
is about $30 to $50 plus the
cost of spermicide and the exam
and fitting for the diaphragm.
A replacement every two years
is recommended.
A woman uses spermicide to coat the inside of this hat-shaped silicone rubber cap. Then she inserts it into the back of her vagina so that it covers the
cervix, where it blocks sperm.
With typical use, 20 women out of
100 will become pregnant in one
year. With perfect use, nine women out of 100 will become pregnant.
Can be worn for up to 48 hours. An attached strap aids in removal.
Does not protect against STDs, including HIV. Must stay in place for six hours after last act of intercourse. It only comes in three sizes, so it may not be an option for everyone. Some women or their partners may feel discomf