Editing Cervical cap (section)

===Method of use===
The first step in inserting or removing a cervical cap is [[hand washing]], to avoid introducing harmful [[bacteria]] into the vaginal canal.<ref name="pp">{{cite web |last=Johnson |first=Jennifer |title=Diaphragm, Cervical Cap and Shield |publisher=Planned Parenthood |date= December 1, 2005  |url=http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control/diaphragm-cervical-cap-shield-4244.htm |access-date=2008-04-19 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080325011659/http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control/diaphragm-cervical-cap-shield-4244.htm |archive-date = March 25, 2008}}</ref> The cap is inserted prior to [[sexual intercourse]];<ref name="CBAS" /> some sources state that insertion prior to [[sexual arousal]] decreases the risk of incorrect placement.<ref name="femcapdirections">{{cite web |title=Directions for use |publisher=FemCap |year=2007 |url=http://www.femcap.com/directions.htm |access-date=2008-04-19 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080310075905/http://www.femcap.com/directions.htm |archive-date = March 10, 2008}}</ref>  Most sources recommend the use of [[spermicide]] with the cap,<ref name="CBAS" /><ref name="pp" /><ref name="femcapdirections" /><ref name="ovesinstructions">{{cite web |title=Instructions for Use |publisher=Veos PLC |year=2003 |url=http://www.oves.com/english/html/consumer/consumer_usage.htm |access-date=2008-04-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210040935/http://www.oves.com/english/html/consumer/consumer_usage.htm |archive-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead }}</ref> but some sources say spermicide use is optional.<!--
 --><ref name="fwhc2" /><ref name="fpn">{{cite web |title=Cervical Cap |work=Family Practice Notebook |year=2000 |url=http://www.fpnotebook.com/GYN11.htm |access-date=2008-04-19 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070930023601/http://www.fpnotebook.com/GYN11.htm |archive-date = September 30, 2007}}</ref>

The cap remains in the vagina for a minimum of 6<ref name="femcapdirections" /><ref name="ovesinstructions" /> to 8<ref name="CBAS" /><ref name="fpn" /> hours after the last intravaginal [[ejaculation]]. It is recommended the cap be removed within 72 hours (within 48 hours is recommended in the U.S.).<ref name="CBAS" />  Other than the disposable Oves cap, cervical caps can be washed and stored for reuse.<ref name="fwhc"/> Silicone devices may be boiled to sterilize them.<ref name=video>{{Cite web |url=http://www.leasshield.com/images/leasvideo.mpg |title=Instructional video |access-date=2008-05-24 |archive-date=2015-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018194543/http://www.leasshield.com/images/leasvideo.mpg |url-status=live }}</ref>  Reusable caps may last for one<ref name="femcapfaq">{{cite web |title=Frequently Asked Questions |publisher=FemCap |year=2007 |url=http://www.femcap.com/faq.htm |access-date=2008-04-19 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080511223914/http://femcap.com/faq.htm |archive-date=2008-05-11 }}</ref> or two<ref name="pp" /> years.

Some caps have a pull tab for removal, but it is claimed that pulling on it should not be done, since it the cap tends to adhere very tightly to the cervix. Instead, putting a finger under the rim and pulling with a jerk should easily detach it.{{sfn|Stopes|1924|pp= 141-2}}