New female intravaginal barrier contraceptive device. Preliminary clinical trial.

The Fem Cap, a silicone rubber cervical cap, is shaped like a sailor's hat. While its dome covers the cervix, its rim fits snugly into the vaginal fornices, and its brim adheres and conforms to the vaginal walls. A spermicidal material is applied to the cap, then it is positioned over the cervix by hand or with a special applicator. The device is removed by hand up to 48 hours after insertion, but no sooner than eight hours after intercourse. Women chosen for the trial had contraindications to or were dissatisfied with the currently available contraceptive methods. Each woman was fitted with a cap of suitable size and instructed in its use. She was then asked to note any side effects and the dates of her menses in a diary. One-hundred-twenty-one women were enrolled in the study. Five became pregnant. Of those, two reported dislodgment of the cap during intercourse; the other three admitted to non-use of the cap on several occasions. This device has proven so far to be safe, effective and acceptable to women and men. It has several advantages over the currently available barrier contraceptive devices. The silicone rubber material from which it is made is non-allergenic, durable and easy to clean. Its design fits the anatomy and accommodates physiological changes. The Fem Cap is easy to insert and remove; an applicator facilitates insertion for some women. Instruction for use of the device requires short time from the health care provider.