How To Use The FemCap
For orientation purposes we can share these simple, logical steps on how to use the FemCap. Of course this is no substitute for reading the manufacturers instructions for use and consulting your Doctor.
How do I insert the FemCap?
This is a brief summary of the instructions for insertion of the FemCap and do no replace the manufacture's full instructions
Step One: Locate your cervix. You may find this easiest to do laying down or squatting.
Step Two: Place spermicide in the dome and groove of the cap.
Step Three: Fold the cap and slide it into your vaginal canal and up to cover your cervix.
Step Four: Place pressure on the removal ring/dome to insure the cap is adequately suctioned to your cervix.
Step Five: Thats it! Just be sure to keep the FemCap in place for at least six hours after having sex.
Can I use FemCap during menstruation?
No, FemCap can not be used during menstruation because it would interfere with the natural flow of menstrual blood. Because you are not fertile during menstruation, contraception is not needed to prevent pregnancy (based on a 22 day cycle with 4 menstruation days).
How do I clean FemCap between uses?
The FemCap should be washed thoroughly with antibacterial soap and rinsed with tap water, then dried and stored in its container. The silicone material will not be effected if you chose to boil your FemCap to sterilize it, but this is totally not necessary. The medical grade silicone used in FemCap is 100 times less adhesive then teflon, so no germs or bacteria will remain after a simple wash.
How often should I replace my FemCap.
It is recommended that the FemCap be replaced every two years or sooner if it shows any signs of deterioration. Note that in testing it is still proven to be unaffected by 2 years of typical use, the recommendation to replace it is for hygienic reasons, not contraceptive reasons. Constant cleaning of the surface can cause scratching and such abrasions can harbour bacteria if it's not cleaned efficiently. This is an example of real world 'best practice' despite the excellent design of the device.
Do I have to use FemCap for the entire month?
You are actually only fertile for about a week out of the month around the time of ovulation, so technically, you only need to use protection during that time. Accurately identifying the fertility window is critical, and you should never guess or estimate your ovulation date.
Natural Family Planning (NFP) and the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) identify ovulation, nullifying the need for contraceptives most of the month. Sperm can live inside the womb for up to 5 days, and ovulation releases an egg which is able to be fertilized for one day. That six day span is referred to as the fertility window, and is the only time there is actually a real need for a barrier device.
Cyclotest uses Sympto-Thermal fertility charting to identify that fertility window. Ovulation causes a spike in Basal body temperature (BBT), so by recording that data every morning, you can see when you have ovulated.