What if I'm having trouble getting the cervical cap in or out?

I can’t get the cervical cap in (or out) easily.

Oct 13, 2015 Updated: Mar 23, 2016

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 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.

Want to learn more?

Select one of the related topics to find more.

cervical cap birth control

Related methods

Dive in and learn all the details about these related birth control methods.

birth control
Cervical cap
Pretty effective if you use it correctly. Can be put in hours before having sex and doesn't affect your hormones.
birth control
Internal condom (FC2)
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and great for those with latex allergies.
birth control
Birth control patch
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you only have to worry about it once a week.
birth control
Implant (Nexplanon)
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private.
birth control
IUD
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private (though some partners can feel the strings). You can choose hormonal or non-hormonal.
birth control
Birth control ring
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you don't have to worry about it every day.
birth control
Condom
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and don't require a prescription, but they do require work.