What are the disadvantages of using cervical caps?

You have to use it every time you have sex.

In order for your cervical cap to work as well as possible, you have to use it every time you have vaginal sex — and you have to use it correctly.

If you’re not sure that you’ll be able to use your cervical cap every single time you have vaginal sex, plenty of other types of birth control are easier to use and offer better protection against pregnancy — like IUDs and implants. You can explore different birth control methods  to find a method that’s best for you.

Remember: whatever kind of birth control you’re on, using condoms or internal condoms every time you have sex is the best way to lower your chances of getting STDs. And using condoms along with another birth control method also gives you extra pregnancy protection. Yay!

Cervical caps can be hard to use correctly.

Some people have trouble inserting their cervical cap, and it can take practice to get comfortable doing it.

Cervical caps can get moved out of place during sex if they get bumped around a lot.

Also, cervical caps don’t work as well if you don’t stay on top of the spermicide situation. You have to make sure you put your cervical cap-plus-spermicide in before sex, and leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex. If you have sex again while it’s in, you have to put more spermicide in your vagina. Don’t leave your cervical cap in for more than 2 days (48 hours).

Spermicide may have side effects.

If you use spermicide more than a few times a day, it can irritate your vagina and increase your risk of getting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Learn more about the risks of spermicide.

If you notice that your vagina feels sore or irritated, you could be sensitive to the spermicide or the material that your cervical cap is made of. Talk to your doctor if your cervical cap or spermicide is causing you problems.

Size matters.

Cervical caps come in different sizes, and so do our bodies. Changes in your body over time can mess up the fit of your cervical cap. You have to get refitted for a new size if you have a baby, miscarriage, or abortion.